Description

Shells” pasta, known in Italian as conchiglie (pronounced con-KEEL-yay), is a type of short-cut pasta shaped like a seashell. The name is derived from the Italian word for seashell, conchiglia. 

Description and Characteristics
Shape and Design: Shell pasta has a distinct, rounded, concave shape with an opening on one side, resembling a conch shell. Most varieties also feature ridges (known as rigate) on the outer surface.
Functionality: This unique design is practical because the hollow interior acts as a “scoop” or reservoir that effectively captures and holds sauces, small ingredients, and even small vegetables or bits of meat, ensuring flavor in every bite.
Ingredients: It is typically made from durum wheat semolina flour and water, though colored variations using natural pigments like tomato or spinach extract are also available.
Origin: The pasta’s origins can be traced back to Southern Italy, particularly Sicily and the region near Naples.