The best substitutes for campanelle pasta
When it comes to pasta, there are countless varieties to choose from. One lesser known gem is campanelle pasta, a bell-shaped pasta with thin, fluted edges and a hollow center. However, finding campanelle pasta can sometimes be a challenge. In such cases, it’s helpful to know the best substitutes that can recreate the texture and flavor of campanelle pasta in your dishes. Here are nine great alternatives:
1. Penne
Penne is a widely available and affordable pasta that is a great substitute for campanelle. It has a short cylindrical shape with diagonally cut ends and may have ridges. Penne’s hollow center allows it to absorb and hold sauces and dressings, making it a suitable replacement for campanelle.
2. Rigatoni
Rigatoni is another tube-shaped pasta that works well as a replacement for campanelle. It is often used in baked recipes and pairs well with creamy and meaty sauces. While similar to penne, rigatoni has a straight cut and a basic cylindrical shape. In addition, rigatoni always has ridges, unlike penne, which may or may not have ridges.
3. Cannelloni
Cannelloni is a popular tube-shaped pasta that serves as an excellent substitute for campanelle. Its hollow cylindrical shape is perfect for holding various fillings and sauces. For a delicious cannelloni recipe, cook the pasta according to package instructions, stuff with your favorite filling, bake and top with sauce. You can use a pastry bag with a large nozzle to help you fill the pasta.
4. Fusilli
Fusilli is a twisted pasta that, like campanelle, is a short cut. Its name comes from the Italian word “fuso”, which means “spindle”. Fusilli’s unique shape and grooves make it an ideal substitute for campanelle, especially in dishes with thicker sauces and heavy creams. It is often used in salads for its visual appeal and ability to hold dressings.
5. Elbow Macaroni
Elbow macaroni is a small, semicircular, tube-shaped pasta that is widely consumed, especially in dishes such as macaroni and cheese. Although it looks different from campanelle, its tubular shape allows creamy sauces to flow into it, adding flavor to every bite. Elbow macaroni is an excellent substitute for campanelle, especially in recipes where shape is less important than the ability to hold sauce.
6. Conchiglie
Conchiglie, commonly known as shells or seashells, is a type of pasta shaped like a conch shell. Although it is not tubular like most other types of pasta, its hollow shape allows it to hold sauces effectively. Conchiglie come in a variety of sizes, with the smallest shell shape called conchigliette and the largest called conchiglioni. While conchigliette are often used in soups and salads, conchiglioni can be filled with a variety of fillings including cheese, vegetables and meat.
7. Cavatappi
Cavatappi is a pasta shape that resembles a corkscrew or spiral. Its complex hollow shape and texture make it a great substitute for campanelle. Like campanelle, cavatappi works well in baked recipes and pairs perfectly with creamy and chunky sauces. It is also known by other names such as double elbow, cellentani, spiral and tortiglione.
8. Manicotti
Manicotti is a larger tube-shaped pasta that can be used as a substitute for campanelle. It is often stuffed with savory cheeses and ground meats. Manicotti is the Italian-American version of cannelloni, with the main difference being that manicotti are larger, ridged, and slightly thicker, while cannelloni are smooth, slightly smaller, and thinner.
9. Ziti
Ziti is a long, wide, tubular pasta that closely resembles penne. It is famous for its use in baked dishes alongside ground meats, cheeses and tomato-based sauces. Ziti’s straight edges and lack of ridges in its texture make it an excellent substitute for campanelle. Like campanelle and many of its substitutes, ziti’s shape allows it to retain a good amount of sauce.
These nine substitutes offer a variety of ways to recreate the taste and texture of campanelle pasta. Whether you’re making a creamy dish, a baked recipe, or a salad, these alternatives will make your pasta dish shine. Experiment with different substitutes to find your favorite and enjoy the versatility of these pasta varieties in your cooking.
FAQS
Can I replace Campanelle pasta with any other type of pasta?
Yes, there are several shapes of pasta that are excellent substitutes for Campanelle, such as Penne, Rigatoni, Cannelloni, Fusilli and Ziti.
Will the taste of my dish change if I use a substitute for Campanelle pasta?
The overall flavor of your dish should not change drastically when using a Campanelle pasta substitute. The main difference may be in the texture and appearance of the dish.
Where can I find these pasta substitutes?
Most grocery stores carry a wide variety of pasta shapes, including the above-mentioned substitutes. You can also find them online or at specialty food stores.
Can I use the substitutes interchangeably in recipes that call for campanelle pasta?
Yes, in most cases you can use the substitutes interchangeably in recipes that call for Campanelle pasta. However, keep in mind that the cooking times may vary slightly, so adjust accordingly.
Can the substitutes be used in both vegetarian and meat-based dishes?
Yes, the Campanelle pasta substitutes work well in both vegetarian and meat-based dishes. They can be paired with a variety of sauces, including creamy, meaty and tomato-based options.
Can I use gluten-free or whole grain versions of the substitutes?
Absolutely! Many of the substitute pasta shapes are available in gluten-free or whole-grain versions, making them suitable for people with special dietary preferences or restrictions. Check the package for these options.