In the region where they were created in Sardinia, they are called "malloreddus" which in Sardinian dialect literally means "little gnocchi" and they are by definition considered to be the most typical dish.
The unusual thing about these little gnocchi is their size, which has been developed to create an exceptional consistency, and the ridged surface which at one time was obtained by pressing the pieces of pasta with the thumb on the bottom of a wicker basket called "ciurili". Nowadays this is done by using a grooved board.
Gnocchetti sardi are particularly good with traditional recipes combined with fresh ricotta or sheep's cheese, as well as being excellent with tomato or meat sauces.
Available in 500g or 3 Kg packs.
Spaccatella originally comes from Sicily and is part of the whimsical, dried pasta family.
The distinctive curved shape, with a hollowed split in the centre makes this pasta especially versatile, but also original. It is perfect for traditional, dense sauces.
Spaccatella is excellent for preparing pasta dishes served with light sauces made from tomatoes, but also goes really well with meat ragù.
Unbeatable with Sicilian pesto made from ricotta and dried tomatoes.
Available in 500g pack.s