Riccioli pasta is a type of pasta that is formed into spiral or tube shapes. It has ruffled edges that create curls or waves along the pasta. Riccioli gets its name from the Italian word for “little curls.” This unique pasta shape is popular in Italian cuisine and can be used in a variety of dishes.
Origins and History
Riccioli pasta originated in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy. Food historians believe it was likely created in the late 19th or early 20th century. The pasta shape was inspired by another Italian pasta called cavatappi, which means “corkscrew.” Cavatappi features a tighter spiral shape while riccioli has a springier, looser curl.
Over time, riccioli pasta grew popular across Italy. One reason for its popularity is its ability to hold thick, chunky sauces well. The curls and waves grasp and cling to sauce, allowing more flavor in each bite. Riccioli is common in Italian restaurants around the world today.
Shapes and Sizes
Riccioli pasta comes in a few varieties of sizes and shapes. The main types include:
- Ricciolina – smallest size that looks like miniature spirals
- Riccioli – medium size and the most common
- Riccioni – largest size with very wide curls
There are also different thicknesses, such as riccioli pasta that is thinner than average. The spiral shape may be narrow and tight or wide and loose. The classic riccioli shape is about 1 inch long.
Culinary Uses
Riccioli is used in primi piatti dishes, which are the first courses in Italian meals. Here are some of the most popular ways to cook and serve this pasta shape:
With Tomato Sauce
Riccioli is delicious when topped with any tomato-based sauce. The sauce clings to the curled shape nicely. Popular sauces include marinara, arrabbiata, bolognese, and vodka sauce. The pasta can be topped with shredded parmesan, basil, or parsley.
With Vegetables
Chunks of vegetables like mushrooms, onions, peppers, or peas pair nicely with riccioli. The vegetables can be sautéed then tossed with the hot pasta and Parmesan or olive oil and garlic. Riccioli and broccoli is a classic pairing.
With Meat, Fish, or Shellfish
Riccioli can be mixed with strips of chicken, pork, beef, salmon, shrimp, or other proteins. The meats go well with creamy or tomato-based sauces. Adding riccioli to seafood dishes like cioppino stew is also popular.
Baked Dishes
For more hearty recipes, riccioli can be baked into casseroles and gratins. Some examples include riccioli with sausage and peppers, ricotta and spinach riccioli gratin, or riccioli lasagna.
Soups
The curled shape stands up well in soups. Riccioli can be added to minestrone, tomato soup, chicken noodle soup, tortellini soup, or other broth-based dishes.
Salads
Riccioli pasta salads make a nice appetizer or side dish recipe. The curls pair well with pesto, olive oil or vinegar dressings, fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, artichokes, grilled vegetables, beans, tuna salad, and more.
Storage and Cooking
Dried riccioli pasta can be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 1 year. Cooked riccioli pasta should be stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. Add a bit of oil to prevent sticking.
To cook riccioli, boil it in salted water over high heat for 9-11 minutes until al dente. The curls should be cooked just until tender but still firm. Avoid overcooking riccioli until it is mushy.
The pasta’s unique shape works well with thick, chunky sauces. The curls grab and hold sauces and ingredients nicely. Riccioli can be served as a main dish or side pasta. It pairs nicely with seafood, chicken, vegetables, creamy alfredo sauce, pesto, or hearty meat ragu.
Making it at Home
While riccioli may not be found everywhere, it’s easy to make a homemade version. Use a spiral vegetable slicer or curling tool to cut vegetables like zucchini or carrots into riccioli shapes. You can also make riccioli out of cheese by slicing mozzarella or provolone then shaping the strips into spirals.
For pasta, wrap flattened pasta dough slices around a dowel handle or pencil to create the curled shape. Cut into smaller riccioli pieces after shaping. Homemade riccioli is a fun cooking project for pasta lovers!
Where to Buy
Authentic Italian riccioli pasta can be found at specialty Italian markets or ordered online. Some grocery stores with large pasta sections also carry it. Common brands include:
- Barilla
- De Cecco
- Delverde
- Rustichella d’Abruzzo
- Bionaturae
Check the pasta aisle near other specialty shapes like cavatappi, gemelli, rotini, or fusilli. Vacuum-sealed riccioli may be available for longer shelf life. You can also find riccioli at many Italian restaurants.
Nutrition Facts
Riccioli is made from just semolina flour and water like most dry pastas. It contains no sugars, fat, cholesterol, or sodium. The nutrition facts for a 2 oz./56g serving of dry riccioli pasta are:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 |
| Protein | 7g |
| Carbohydrates | 41g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Iron | 2mg |
Riccioli is low in fat, cholesterol free, and provides some protein, fiber, and iron. The gluten free version swaps semolina for alternate flours like brown rice.
Advantages
Some benefits of using riccioli pasta include:
- Holds sauces, condiments, and ingredients nicely
- Adds visual appeal and texture
- Suits many styles of cuisine
- Kid-friendly and fun shape
- Works for hot or cold dishes
- Can be baked, grilled, or toasted
- Takes on flavors well
- Protein-rich and nutrient-dense
- Gluten free options available
Disadvantages
A few downsides of riccioli include:
- Can overcook into a mushy texture
- Not always easy to find
- Prone to breaking apart if overhandled
- Thick sauces can be heavy
- Not compatible with smooth, thin sauces
Substitutes
If you can’t find riccioli pasta, here are some good alternatives:
- Cavatappi – tighter corkscrew shape
- Rotini – spirals or twists
- Fusilli – loose corkscrews
- Farfalle – bowtie shape
- Campanelle – bell flower or fluted shape
- Penne – cylinder shape
- Conchiglie – seashell shape
- Wagon wheel pasta
The best substitutes mimic the curled or ridged shape that can hold sauces well. Test out a few similar pasta shapes to find your favorite.
Popular Dishes
Some iconic recipes that feature riccioli pasta include:
- Riccioli with beef ragu
- Chicken riccioli alfredo
- Riccioli primavera – mixed veggies
- Shrimp scampi with riccioli
- Riccioli aglio e olio – garlicky olive oil sauce
- Riccioli and smoked mozzarella bake
- Riccioli mac and cheese
- Riccioli niçoise salad with tuna and olives
Riccioli shines in all kinds of hot and cold Italian pasta dishes. It can also be used in casseroles, soups, salads, and pasta bakes for new twists on recipes.
Conclusion
Riccioli pasta is the perfect choice for pasta lovers looking to add more texture and visual appeal to meals. The springy curls grab sauce and mix well with all types of ingredients. While riccioli requires a bit more effort to find and prepare, the beautiful presentation and taste makes it worthwhile. Next time you cook Italian, consider swapping out spaghetti or penne for riccioli’s unique curled shape.