For each pasta dish, there's a secret tool that will take your authentic Italian dinner to the next level. Here's a guide to help you learn how to use these tools
There’s something unforgettable about the pasta you enjoyed on a warm Italian summer evening – the perfect texture, the rich flavor, the magic in every bite. While the quality of local ingredients and traditional cooking techniques play a big role, the tools used in Italian kitchens are equally essential for creating that authentic experience. From hand-rolled sfoglia to perfectly shaped orecchiette, the secret often lies in the tools themselves.
To bring a taste of Italy into your kitchen, we’ve curated a list of the most authentic Italian pasta tools. Discover their unique purpose, their rich heritage, and why they’re the key to transforming your homemade pasta into something truly special.
Italian Gnocchi Board
The gnocchi board is a simple yet essential tool for making perfect homemade gnocchi. With its ridged surface, it helps shape the dough into traditional gnocchi while creating those signature grooves that hold onto sauces beautifully. Whether you’re making classic potato gnocchi, ricotta gnocchi, or experimenting with other variations, this little board ensures your gnocchi turn out both delicious and visually perfect. It’s a must-have for anyone who loves homemade Italian comfort food.
Curious to see how it’s used? Check out this YouTube video for a quick demonstration.
Stendipasta a rullo
The wooden rolling pin with a double stainless steel fork is a must-have for anyone who loves making homemade pasta or pizza. It’s perfect for rolling out fresh pasta dough for lasagna, tagliatelle, or even a thin, crispy pizza base. Easy to use and versatile, it makes prepping your favorite recipes a breeze.
Curious to see it in action? Here’s a YouTube video to check out.
Mortar and Pestle
The mortar and pestle is a timeless kitchen tool that’s perfect for grinding and blending ingredients the old-fashioned way. Whether you’re crushing fresh basil for homemade pesto, grinding spices for curry, or making a flavorful garlic and herb paste, this tool brings out the natural oils and aromas like no blender can. Its sturdy design makes it ideal for both soft and hard ingredients, giving your recipes a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat.
Want to see it in action? Check out this YouTube video for some inspiration.
Ravioli Cutter or Stamp
The ravioli cutter or stamp is the perfect tool for shaping and sealing homemade ravioli with ease. It ensures the filling stays securely tucked inside while giving each piece that classic, crimped edge. Available in a variety of shapes and styles, it’s also a fun way to get creative in the kitchen, whether you’re making traditional square ravioli or experimenting with round, heart-shaped, or fluted designs. Simple to use and endlessly versatile, it’s a must-have for pasta lovers.
Looking to try it out? Here’s a YouTube video that shows you exactly how it’s done.
Rotella taglia ravioli
The rotella taglia ravioli, or ravioli cutter wheel, is a versatile tool for creating perfectly shaped and sealed homemade ravioli. Its sharp, fluted edge effortlessly cuts through pasta dough, giving each raviolo a clean, decorative finish while keeping the filling neatly contained. Beyond ravioli, this little wheel can also be used for cutting pastry dough or adding creative edges to pies and tarts. It’s a simple yet essential tool for anyone who enjoys making fresh pasta at home.
Want to see how it’s done? Check out this YouTube video for a quick look: link.
Rotella tagliapasta
The rotella tagliapasta, or pasta cutting wheel, is an essential tool for anyone making fresh pasta at home. Its sharp, rolling blade easily cuts through dough to create clean, precise edges, whether you’re shaping tagliatelle, pappardelle, or decorative pastry designs. Thanks to its versatility, it’s also perfect for trimming lasagna sheets or adding a creative touch to pie crusts. Simple to use and endlessly handy, it’s a must-have for homemade pasta enthusiasts.
Curious to see it in action? Watch this YouTube video for some inspiratio.
We hope these traditional tools help elevate your cooking experience! Authentic tools make for an authentic meal.
Comments