What Is Gemelli Pasta?

Move over, penne. This twisty pasta has a growing fan base.

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Published on December 15, 2021

uncooked gemelli in strainer next to olive oil and wooden spoons — Photo: jirkaejc/Getty Images

Sales for gemelli pasta saw a 457 percent increase in 2021, making it the fastest growing grocery product of the year according to Instacart's Year in Groceries report. It appears it's out with the old and in with the new, at least when it comes to pasta shapes.

If you're not already cooking with gemelli, you'll want to incorporate it into your regular rotation of pasta dishes for a new take on old favorites.

What Shape Is Gemelli Pasta?

uncooked gemelli pasta up close — jirkaejc/Getty Images

Gemelli, which translates to "twins" in Italian, looks like two separate strands rolled together, but it's actually one long strand that is folded in half and twisted together. The resulting shape holds sauces beautifully in all its twists and crevices. It's a great substitute for fusilli or rotini pastas.

What Is Gemelli Pasta Used For?

You can use gemelli in place of many different short pastas, such as penne or fusilli. It holds sauces well, including meat sauces, cream sauces, tomato sauces, and oil-based sauces. Try it in a simple pasta salad, a hearty baked pasta, or with a classic vodka sauce.