Lumache

Lumache is a shell-shaped, hollow variety of pasta named after an Italian word for snail, due to its resemblance to a snail's shell. Made with durum wheat, this beautiful pasta is also available in green and red color, achieved with the addition of spinach or tomato purée to the basic dough.

Lumache pasta comes in a wide range of sizes - the most common variety being around the size of the first joint in the thumb. Small lumache are great in baked pasta dishes or soups, the medium variety pairs nicely with both runny and thick sauces, while the largest variety, also called lumaconi, are usually filled with ricotta, spinach, mozzarella, or meat, then baked in the oven.