15 Most Mouthwatering Pasta Dishes You Need to Try Around the World
What’s one culinary dish that unites food lovers across cultures while representing diverse traditions from every corner of the globe? Pasta.
With over 600 unique names and over 350 different types, pasta is one of the world’s most popular foods. It started as nothing more than Italian kitchen comfort food. But has since become a global comfort food, changing in flavors, textures, and presentations as it travels worldwide.
Pasta is the world’s most popular dish, according to a 2021 study that found that 60 percent of the world’s population eats pasta.
If you are a fan of traditional comfort or experimental gourmet, this list will surely please your taste buds and fire your palate. Get ready to drool as you explore 15 irresistible pasta dishes you must try when traveling.
Italy’s Tagliatelle al Ragù
No list of pasta dishes can start anywhere but Italy—the birthplace of pasta. Tagliatelle al Ragù is the quintessentially Italian dish, and it comes from Bologna.
This traditional delicacy is wide, flat egg noodles smothered in a slow-cooked meat sauce. Fun fact? Italians rarely call it “Bolognese.” Then pair it with a glass of Chianti, and you’ve nearly crushed Italian culinary perfection.
France’s Lobster Ravioli
The French have subtly perfected their love for pasta, mixing in a bit of Italian technique with their flair. Lobster ravioli is a luxurious dish with delicate pasta parcels filled with lobster meat and topped with bisque-style sauces.
Make it unforgettable by enjoying this dish in a quaint brasserie on the French Riviera while sipping on rosé.
China’s Zhajiangmian
Noodles are part of the Chinese cuisine that dates back over 4,000 years. Zhajiangmian (“fried sauce noodles”) combines thick wheat noodles with a rich, earthy soybean paste sauce. Add crunchy veggies and pork for a textural explosion. If you are exploring Beijing’s street food markets, don’t miss this culinary gem.
Japan’s Tonkotsu Ramen
Japan’s love for noodles enters a creamy, umami-rich realm with Tonkotsu Ramen. Though technically not pasta, the silky wheat noodles bathed in pork bone broth delight pasta lovers worldwide.
India’s Masala Macaroni
India’s spicy twist on pasta is everything. Masala Macaroni harmonizes Italian noodles with Indian spices like turmeric, cumin, and garam masala. It has fiery flavors and an aromatic note to make your taste buds want more. Pairing it with chai is the ultimate comfort combo.
Greece’s Pastitsio
When you travel to Greece, locals rave about Pastitsio—a layered baked pasta dish often called “Greek lasagna.” This dish typically features béchamel, ground meat, and tubular pasta. Looking for lighter fare? Opt for orzo. This rice-shaped pasta is central to many Greek salads and soups.
Morocco’s Couscous-Touched Pasta
In Moroccan cuisine, couscous is usually the show’s star, but they also serve pasta dishes simmered in tagines. You have a plate of unforgettable flavor if you add almonds, dried fruits, and spices. Experience this as you sip mint tea in a Moroccan souk.
Mexico’s Sopa Seca
Mexico’s “dry soup” might sound misleading, but trust us—it’s pasta heaven. Thin noodles are toasted, cooked in a spiced tomato sauce, and often topped with queso fresco or crema. To amp up the spice, add a splash of chipotle salsa.
United States Gourmet Mac and Cheese
Mac and cheese have leveled up in the US. From truffle-infused versions in New York City to Cajun-style mac in New Orleans, this dish redefines how pasta lovers enjoy comfort food. That’s saying a lot about America’s relationship with noodles and cheese!
Thailand’s Pad Thai Noodles
A globally beloved dish, Pad Thai is a stir-fried noodle concoction packed with peanut flavor, tamarind notes, and tangy lime. It has gained international popularity in recent years, featuring Thai restaurants as a signature dish and introducing global audiences to Thai culinary traditions.
Don’t forget the essential toppings of crushed peanuts and fresh bean sprouts.
Brazil’s Pasta Feijoada
Brazil’s version of pasta stew pairs noodles with the beloved Brazilian feijoada (a black bean slow cooker dish with pork or beef). It’s hearty, rustic, and incredibly satisfying. Serve it with Brazil’s well-known pão de queijo (cheese bread) – a match made in heaven.
Australia’s Native Basil and Kangaroo Ragù Pasta
Leave it to Australia to innovate with bush-inspired ingredients. Try kangaroo ragù tossed through fresh linguine with native basil and mountain pepper.
Sustainably sourced and uniquely Aussie, this dish celebrates nature’s bounty. Kangaroo meat is a sustainable and lean protein source, with only 2% fat content, making it one of the healthiest red meats available.
South Africa’s Bobotie Pasta Bake
South Africa’s bobotie spices really make for a tasty riff. This fusion pasta bake layers ground meat seasoned with curry spices, noodles, and a creamy egg custard topping. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Enjoy it with South African wine for an educational experience.
Italy’s Carbonara
Italy deserves a second mention, especially for its world-famous Carbonara. This classic Roman pasta combines spaghetti, egg yolks, Pecorino Romano, guanciale, and black pepper for a symphony of bold flavors. Skip the cream—it’s not authentic! Italian chefs take pride in perfecting the creamy texture with yolks alone.
France’s Truffle Linguine
France’s obsession with earthy, aromatic ingredients shines with truffle-infused linguine. This dish represents pure indulgence, best enjoyed in the South of France during truffle season. Its richness means a small serving goes a long way, but the flavor stays with you long after the meal ends.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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