Definition

Noun 1. A type of filled pasta: Small, typically circular or square-shaped pockets of pasta dough, sealed around a savory filling. They are similar to ravioli but are often smaller and may have a different shape, traditionally resembling little hats.

Examples of Usage

• The menu featured homemade cappelletti in a brown butter and sage sauce.
• For the first course, she prepared cappelletti filled with ricotta and spinach.
• This region of Italy is famous for its cappelletti served in a rich capon broth.

Advanced Usage

• "Cappelletti" as a collective noun: The word is typically used in its plural form to refer to multiple pieces of this pasta, similar to words like "spaghetti" or "ravioli." The singular form "cappelletto" is rarely used in English contexts.
  • How many cappelletti would you like in your bowl?

Variants and Related Words

• Tortellini: A related type of small, ring-shaped filled pasta, often compared to cappelletti. The main distinction is traditionally one of shape and regional origin.
• Ravioli: Square or round stuffed pasta, generally larger than cappelletti.
• Agnolotti: Another type of stuffed pasta, typically semicircular or rectangular.

Synonyms

• Filled pasta
• Stuffed pasta
• Pasta pockets

Notes on Meaning

• The primary meaning refers specifically to the food item itself—the prepared pasta. It does not refer to the act of making or eating it, which would be described with verbs like "to make cappelletti" or "to eat cappelletti."
• The name "cappelletti" comes from Italian, meaning "little hats," which describes their traditional shape.

Noun

1. small circular or square cases of dough with savory fillings