The difference
Spaghetti vs Vermicelli
Same shape, different gauge, and the name flips by region. In Italy vermicelli is usually a touch thicker than spaghetti, in the United States it is sold thinner. Either way it is a solid round strand for the same light, clinging sauces.
Spaghetti
- Family
- Long strands
- Size
- 250 to 300 mm long
- Surface
- Smooth
- Cook
- 9 to 12 min
Wants: Tomato sauce, Carbonara, Garlic and oil
Vermicelli
- Family
- Long strands
- Size
- 2.08 to 2.14 mm across
- Surface
- Smooth
- Cook
- 12 to 14 min
Wants: Tomato sauce, Garlic and oil, Clams
Keep exploring
See the full profiles for Spaghetti and Vermicelli, or compare more shapes.
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From the Almanac
Updates from Pasta Almanac, when there is something worth sharing.