Pasta Shapes: Mafaldine – Ribbon Pasta with Elegance
Elegant, wavy ribbons of pasta known as mafaldine (or reginette) are Sicily’s nod to sophistication. Named after Princess Mafalda of Savoy, this pasta brings an element of grace and festivity to Sicilian tables, bridging the worlds of culinary artistry and history.
The Story
Mafaldine are long, flat ribbons with delicately ruffled edges, crafted not just for beauty but for functionality, as their pleats catch and hold sauces in every fold. In Sicily, they are often paired with hearty ragùs, rich seafood sauces, or creamy mushroom blends, turning a simple meal into a sensory experience.
The origin of mafaldine reflects both innovation and reverence for royalty. The pasta was created in the early 20th century to honor Princess Mafalda of Savoy, daughter of King Victor Emmanuel III. The ruffled edges were designed to resemble the pleats of a royal gown, symbolizing elegance, sophistication, and celebration. It’s a pasta that doesn’t just feed the body—it feeds the imagination.
Cooking mafaldine is an experience in itself. As the ribbons simmer, they maintain a perfect balance of firmness and tenderness, ready to embrace rich, savory sauces. The tactile pleasure of lifting a forkful, watching sauce cling to every ruffle, and tasting the harmony of texture and flavor, creates a moment of connection to Sicilian culinary traditions.
Serving mafaldine elevates any table. Families gather for festive occasions or Sunday lunches, cherishing the visual appeal and luxurious feel of this pasta. Chefs use it to showcase both skill and creativity, arranging it with ingredients that highlight its beauty—from vibrant seasonal vegetables to delicately cooked seafood.
Eating mafaldine is a reminder that pasta in Sicily isn’t merely food—it’s a celebration of artistry, heritage, and everyday elegance. It invites us to slow down, appreciate detail, and savor both flavor and form.
Sauce Pairing Suggestions
- Slow-cooked beef or pork ragù – The ruffles trap the rich, meaty sauce beautifully.
- Creamy mushroom sauces – Perfect for highlighting the pasta’s texture.
- Tomato and seafood sauces – A light yet flavorful combination that enhances the delicate waves.
- Seasonal vegetables – For a lighter, vibrant option that keeps the pasta visually stunning.
Fun Facts
- Mafaldine’s ruffled edges catch sauces better than flat pasta, creating a more flavorful bite.
- Originally, mafaldine was reserved for special occasions, not everyday meals.
- The pasta’s royal namesake adds a touch of cultural history to festive dishes.
- Today, some Sicilian restaurants serve mafaldine with fresh, seasonal vegetables for a modern, lighter interpretation.
- Its alternative name, reginette, literally means “little queens,” a nod to both the princess and the pasta’s regal elegance.
