The 8 Best Substitutes for Angel Hair Pasta

If you’re looking for a delicious substitute for angel hair pasta that still offers the same light and airy texture, then look no further!

I’ve compiled a list of 8 great substitutes to satisfy your cravings.

Each ingredient has its own unique flavor profile, so you can tailor them to fit whatever cuisine or dish you feel like making.

No matter what you’re making – whether it’s an alfredo or a soup – there is something here for everyone who needs an angel hair pasta substitute.

Ready?

Let’s dive in!

What is Angel Hair Pasta?

Angel hair pasta is a type of thin, spaghetti-like Italian noodle made from durum wheat flour and water.

It has a delicate texture and mild flavor that makes it perfect for light sauces and seafood dishes.

Angel hair pasta cooks quickly and absorbs the flavors of accompanying ingredients very well due to its delicate nature.

The thin strands can also be easily broken into smaller pieces if desired.

When cooked properly, angel hair pasta should have an al dente consistency, making it both delicious and aesthetically pleasing on the plate.

It is best served with light sauces such as olive oil or pesto so as not to overpower the subtle taste of the noodles themselves.

The 8 Best Substitutes for Angel Hair Pasta

Angel hair pasta is a popular choice when it comes to Italian-inspired dishes.

However, if you’re looking for something different or don’t have access to angel hair pasta, there are plenty of alternatives that can be used in its place.

Here are 8 great substitutes for angel hair pasta:

1. Spaghetti

If you don’t have angel hair pasta, but are looking for a similar texture and shape, spaghetti is an excellent substitute.

Spaghetti is a long and thin variety of noodle made from durum wheat flour.

It has a slightly firmer texture than angel hair pasta and can stand up to heavier sauces without becoming soggy or falling apart.

1. To prepare spaghetti, bring about 6 quarts of salted water to a boil in a large pot.
2. Add the spaghetti noodles and stir them gently for the first few minutes to prevent sticking.
3. Cook the noodles for 8-10 minutes or until al dente, then drain them in a colander before serving them with your favorite sauce or topping.

2. Fettuccine

Fettuccine is a type of long, flat Italian pasta.

It’s traditionally made with egg yolk and flour but can also be made with semolina or whole wheat flour.

Fettuccine has a slightly chewy texture when cooked, making it ideal for hearty sauces like Bolognese or carbonara.

It also works well with cream-based sauces, as the ribbon shape helps to hold onto the sauce better than angel hair pasta would.

Fettuccine can also be used in cold dishes such as salads or grain bowls for added texture and flavor.

Additionally, it makes an excellent substitute for angel hair pasta when preparing traditional dishes like pesto or shrimp scampi.

3. Linguine

Linguine is a type of pasta that consists of long, flat strands.

It is similar to fettuccine, but thinner and narrower in width.

Linguine has an al dente texture when cooked and goes well with creamy sauces or pesto.

Due to its shape and texture it can be used as a substitute for angel hair pasta in many dishes.

For example, linguine can be used in place of angel hair for traditional Italian dishes such as spaghetti Bolognese or carbonara, or even Asian-style stir-fries.

It is also a great option for salads since the wider surface area allows the sauce to coat each strand evenly.

4. Vermicelli

Vermicelli is a type of pasta that resembles thin strands of spaghetti.

It is made from semolina flour and water, and it can be served either hot or cold.

Vermicelli can be used as a substitute for angel hair pasta in many recipes.

Its thin shape makes it perfect for dishes such as soups, salads, stir-fries, casseroles and more.

When cooked correctly, vermicelli has an al dente texture with a slightly chewy bite.

The key to achieving the perfect texture is to cook the noodles quickly over high heat until they are just tender but still retain some bite.

For added flavor, you can toss the cooked vermicelli with olive oil or butter before serving.

Additionally, it pairs well with herbs like basil and oregano as well as garlic and onion.

With its versatility and ease of preparation, vermicelli makes an excellent alternative.

5. Tagliatelle

Tagliatelle is a type of pasta made from durum wheat.

The long, thin strands are similar in shape to angel hair pasta, but they’re slightly wider and thicker.

Tagliatelle has a robust texture that stands up well to sauces and holds its shape when cooked.

It can be used in many dishes as a substitute for angel hair pasta, including soups, salads, casseroles, stir-fries and more.

Tagliatelle also pairs nicely with pesto or buttery sauces.

It can also be served cold with vinaigrettes or mixed into salads.

Like other types of dried pastas, tagliatelle should be cooked al dente (tender yet still firm) for best results.

6. Orzo

Orzo is a type of short-cut pasta that resembles rice.

It is made from durum wheat, giving it a chewy texture and nutty flavor.

Orzo can be used in place of angel hair pasta in many dishes, including soups, salads, casseroles, and more.

It has a mild flavor that pairs well with bold sauces or creamy dressings.

And because it is slightly thicker than angel hair pasta, it holds up better when cooked al dente.

For an even heartier dish, try roasting the orzo before adding it to your recipe for extra crunch and depth of flavor.

Orzo also makes an excellent substitute for traditional risotto dishes if you’re looking for something a bit quicker and easier to prepare.

7. Rice Noodles

Rice noodles are a type of thin noodle made from rice flour and water.

These noodles are popular in Asian cuisine, particularly in stir-fries, soups, and salads.

Rice noodles are gluten-free, low in calories, and rich in vitamins and minerals.

They also have a neutral flavor that allows them to take on the flavors of the dish you’re preparing.

Rice noodles can be used as an excellent substitute for angel hair pasta when making Italian dishes such as spaghetti or lasagna.

Simply boil the rice noodles until they’re al dente (about 3 minutes) then drain them before adding to your recipe.

For added flavor you can sauté the cooked rice noodles with garlic, olive oil, herbs, or vegetables before adding them to your dish.

8. Udon Noodles

Udon noodles are thick, chewy Japanese noodles made from wheat flour.

Unlike angel hair pasta, udon noodles have a firm texture and can stand up to bold flavors such as miso and soy sauce.

Udon noodles can be served hot or cold, in soups or stir-fries.

They also make an excellent addition to noodle salads and other Asian dishes.

To prepare udon noodles, simply boil them for a few minutes until they are al dente. Then rinse with cold water and serve with your favorite sauces or toppings.

For an even quicker meal, try pre-cooked frozen udon noodles – just heat them up and you’re good to go!