Pasta comes in many shapes, but it's not because Italians just like the aesthetics. Pasta types match up with pasta sauces.

For the pasta: Bring 5-6 qt. of water to a boil in a large kettle. Add 1 tsp. salt to boiling water in kettle. Add pasta and cook until done. Scoop out 6 oz. of pasta liquid and add to clams.