By Real Simple


Photo: Jens Mortensen


Real Simple staffers used their noodles to find the best dried pastas among 80 different varieties. Ciao down!
Best Semolina

When in Rome, go for handmade noodles. When at home, opt for this most common store-bought pasta variety, made with semolina flour (similar to coarse white flour).

These winners boast a sandy exterior with tiny crevices that help sauce stick. Plus, they’re sturdy enough to pair with Grandma’s Bolognese.

RS long pick: Barilla Thick Spaghetti, $1.70 for 16 ounces, at supermarkets.




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Photo: Jens Mortensen

Best Semolina

RS short pick:
De Cecco Penne Rigate, $2.30 for 16 ounces, at supermarkets.



Photo: Jens Mortensen

Best Whole-Grain

Made from whole wheat, rye, or a combination of grains, these noodles are more nutritious than their semolina cousins. Whole-grain varieties can have an earthy taste and a rubbery texture, but these winners are slightly sweet and toothsome. Their mild flavor pairs nicely with garlic and olive oil or roasted vegetables.

RS long pick: Racconto 8 Whole Grain Spaghetti, $3 for 16 ounces, at supermarkets.






Photo: Jens Mortensen

Best Whole-Grain

RS short pick: 365 Everyday Value Organic Whole Wheat Penne Rigate, $2 for 16 ounces, Whole Foods Markets.





Photo: Jens Mortensen

Best Gluten-Free

If you’re allergic to gluten (a protein found in wheat), there’s no need to give the boot to your favorite Italian dishes. Gluten-free pastas, usually made from corn or rice, are easy to find. And although some kinds turn gummy, these favorites stayed firm. The penne tastes faintly like popcorn; try it with ham, peas, and Parmesan. The spaghetti has a subtle rice flavor that goes with everything.

RS long pick: Lundberg Family Farms Organic Brown Rice Spaghetti Pasta, $4 for 10 ounces, at supermarkets.






Photo: Jens Mortensen

Best Gluten-Free

RS short pick: Trader Joe’s Corn Pasta Penne, $1.40 for 16 ounces, Trader Joe’s.





Photo: Jens Mortensen

Best Nutrient-Enriched

Does your family have an aversion to whole-grain pasta—either the taste or the darker color? Try the next best thing: an enhanced semolina pasta. It looks and tastes like your favorite white pasta but is loaded with calcium, fiber, and vitamin D. So sneaky, so delicious.

RS long pick: Ronzoni Smart Taste Spaghetti, $1.50 for 12 ounces, at supermarkets.



Photo: Jens Mortensen