Grocery
Premium Greek Mezzani Pasta
What it is
This is a type of pasta originating from Greece, specifically designed for dishes that often feature rich sauces and hearty ingredients. Mezzani are small, tube-shaped pasta pieces, typically cut on an angle. Their size and shape make them ideal for holding onto sauces, ensuring each bite is flavorful. This pasta is made from durum wheat semolina, a common and traditional base for many pasta varieties, providing a satisfying texture when cooked al dente.
How people cook with it
Mezzani pasta is versatile and can be incorporated into a wide range of savory dishes. It is particularly well-suited for baked pasta casseroles and hearty stews.
- Baked pasta dishes
- Hearty stews
- Pasta salads
- Side dishes
To prepare mezzani, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook according to package directions until it reaches the desired al dente texture, which means it should be tender but still have a slight bite. Drain the pasta thoroughly. It can then be tossed with your favorite sauce, added to soups, or used in baked dishes. For baked applications, it's often combined with a rich sauce and cheese before being baked until bubbly and golden.
How it differs from similar foods
Mezzani differs from larger pasta shapes in its ability to absorb sauces and its suitability for baked dishes. Its smaller size and angled cut allow it to nestle into casseroles and hold onto chunky ingredients more effectively than longer or flatter pasta types.
Who it is for
Home cooks looking for a versatile pasta shape that performs well in both stovetop and oven preparations.
How to keep the rest
Store any unused portion of the pasta in a cool, dry place, such as a pantry. Ensure it is kept in an airtight container or the original packaging, sealed tightly, to maintain freshness and prevent moisture absorption. This will help preserve its texture and flavor for future use.