The Mezze Maniche is a chunky pasta. It looks similar to a rigatoni—with its tubular shape covered with ridges, but its size is about half the rigatoni. It works much the same as a rigatoni, and is perfect for picking up sauces when enjoyed.
In Italy, the Mezze Maniche pasta is usually associated with summery pasta dishes. Try this Mezze Maniche with Guanciale and Spinach:
Mezze Maniche comes from central-northern Italy, and is sometimes called “maniche dei frati,” which means “friar’s sleeves.” The name mezze maniche means “half-sleeves,” and Italians associate it with airy, breezy summer wear, which is why it’s usually prepared with lighter sauces.
Store dry, uncooked pasta in a cool, dry pantry for up to one year. Preserve freshness by storing dry pasta in an air-tight box or container. Store plain (no sauce or other ingredients) cooked pasta in a container or plastic sealable bag in the refrigerator for up to five days and up to three months in the freezer.