Tagliatelle vs. Linguine — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on November 5, 2023
Tagliatelle are long, flat ribbons of pasta, wider than linguine, which are also long but narrower and elliptical in cross-section.
Difference Between Tagliatelle and Linguine
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Tagliatelle is a traditional type of pasta from the Emilia-Romagna and Marche regions of Italy. It's known for its flat ribbons and is typically about 6-10 mm wide, which allows it to hold rich, thick sauces well. Linguine, originating from the Liguria region of Italy, is narrower and more elliptical in shape, resembling thin, flat spaghetti. This shape is better suited to lighter, oil-based sauces.
When it comes to preparing a hearty Bolognese, chefs often reach for tagliatelle, as its broader surface can carry the chunky sauce effectively. On the other hand, linguine is frequently paired with seafood or pesto, complementing the delicate textures and flavors of such dishes. The flatness of tagliatelle provides a different mouthfeel than the slightly more rounded linguine.
Texture is key in pasta dishes, and tagliatelle often offers a more substantial bite compared to linguine. Linguine's narrow, more delicate strands can sometimes result in a lighter dish. Despite these differences, both pastas serve as excellent foundations for a variety of ingredients and sauces, showcasing the diversity of Italian pasta cuisine.
Regional recipes also play a role in pasta selection. In the traditional culinary practices of their respective regions, tagliatelle and linguine have been honed to align with local ingredients. Tagliatelle is often seen in the context of heartier, inland ingredients, while linguine's coastal origins have it appearing alongside seafood more frequently.
Lastly, although both pastas are beloved for their versatility, the preference for tagliatelle or linguine can also be influenced by personal taste and the texture profile that one desires in a pasta dish. Whether it's the robust tagliatelle or the slender linguine, both bring a distinct character to the table, much to the delight of pasta aficionados.
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Comparison Chart
Origin
Emilia-Romagna and Marche, Italy.
Liguria, Italy.
Shape
Flat ribbons, wider in appearance.
Narrow, flat, and elliptical cross-section.
Width
About 6-10 mm.
Narrower than tagliatelle.
Ideal Sauce Pairing
Thicker, meat-based sauces.
Lighter, oil-based sauces or seafood.
Mouthfeel and Texture
Provides a substantial bite.
More delicate and lighter bite.
Compare with Definitions
Tagliatelle
Tagliatelle is wider than spaghetti but narrower than fettuccine.
The chef recommended tagliatelle with the mushroom sauce.
Linguine
Linguine pasta pairs well with light tomato or cream sauces.
She tossed the linguine in a light garlic sauce.
Tagliatelle
Tagliatelle pasta is often served with beef or pork ragu.
They enjoyed a rich bowl of tagliatelle Bolognese.
Linguine
Linguine is long, slender pasta ideal for seafood dishes.
Linguine with clam sauce is her favorite meal.
Tagliatelle
Tagliatelle is synonymous with traditional Italian cuisine.
Tagliatelle al ragù is a classic dish in Italian cooking.
Linguine
Linguine is thinner than fettuccine and slightly wider than spaghetti.
For dinner, they prepared a linguine with shrimp dish.
Tagliatelle
Tagliatelle is a type of Italian pasta in flat ribbons.
He made homemade tagliatelle for the dinner party.
Linguine
Linguine is similar to spaghetti but flatter.
He twirled the linguine onto his fork, savoring the basil pesto.
Tagliatelle
Tagliatelle ribbons are rolled from a flat pasta sheet.
Fresh tagliatelle is often found in the markets of Bologna.
Linguine
Linguine, often chosen for its delicate texture, complements olive oil-based sauces.
Lemon linguine was the special of the day.
Tagliatelle
Tagliatelle (Italian pronunciation: [taʎʎaˈtɛlle] (listen); from the Italian tagliare, meaning "to cut") are a traditional type of pasta from the Emilia-Romagna and Marche regions of Italy. Individual pieces of tagliatelle are long, flat ribbons that are similar in shape to fettuccine and are traditionally about 6 mm (0.24 in) wide.
Linguine
Linguine (; Italian: [liŋˈɡwiːne]) is a type of pasta similar to fettuccine and trenette but elliptical in section rather than flat. It is about 4 millimetres (0.16 in) in width, which is wider than spaghetti but not as wide as fettuccine.
Tagliatelle
Pasta in narrow flat strips, usually somewhat thinner and often narrower than fettuccine.
Linguine
Small pieces of pasta in the form of narrow ribbons.
Tagliatelle
A dish made with such strips of pasta.
Linguine
Pasta in long, flat, thin strands.
Tagliatelle
Long, flat ribbons of egg pasta, originally from Emilia-Romagna, sliced from a rolled-out sheet.
Linguine
Of pasta, cut from a sheet, not as wide as tagliatelle.
Tagliatelle
Pasta cut in narrow ribbons
Linguine
Pasta in long slender flat strips
Common Curiosities
What's the best way to cook tagliatelle?
Boil in salted water until al dente, usually for 4-5 minutes.
Can I use linguine in a Bolognese sauce?
Yes, but tagliatelle is the classic choice for Bolognese.
What's the main flavor difference between tagliatelle and linguine?
There's no inherent flavor difference, it depends on the sauce.
How should I store fresh tagliatelle and linguine?
Refrigerate and use within a couple of days, or dry and store.
Can I make tagliatelle or linguine without a pasta machine?
Yes, they can be rolled and cut by hand.
How do I prevent tagliatelle from sticking together?
Use plenty of water and stir occasionally when cooking.
What's the best sauce to serve with tagliatelle?
Thick, meat-based sauces like ragu are ideal.
Is linguine or tagliatelle better with creamy sauces?
Tagliatelle typically pairs better with creamy sauces.
Can I substitute linguine for tagliatelle?
Yes, but the sauce may cling differently due to the shape difference.
Is tagliatelle or linguine better for seafood?
Linguine is traditionally paired with seafood.
Are tagliatelle and linguine gluten-free?
They can be if made from gluten-free flour alternatives.
Is there a difference in cooking times for tagliatelle vs. linguine?
Yes, due to thickness differences, cooking times may vary.
Are tagliatelle and linguine available in whole wheat options?
Yes, many brands offer whole wheat versions.
Are tagliatelle and linguine suitable for vegan diets?
If made without eggs, they can be vegan-friendly.
Can I bake linguine in a casserole?
Yes, but it’s not traditional. It may become too soft.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
