Rigatoni smaller version, close to the size of penne. Their name takes on the diminutive suffix "-ino" (pluralized "-ini") denoting their relative size. Rigatoni is a particular favorite pasta shape in the south of Italy, especially in Sicily. Its namesake ridges make better adhesive surfaces for sauces and grated cheese than smooth-sided pasta like ziti. Rigatoni Rigatoni are a form of tube-shaped pasta of varying lengths and diameters originating in Italy. They are larger than penne and ziti, and sometimes slightly curved, though nowhere near as curved as elbow macaroni. Rigatoni characteristically have ridges down their length, sometimes spiraling around the
Ziti are sauced or used in pasta salads. Ziti Ziti is an extruded pasta. It is smaller than rigatoni, but larger than mezzani. Ziti may have smooth sides, but the addition of the word (meaning "ridged") denotes lines or ridges on the pasta's outer surface. Ziti is similar to penne, but often has ends cut in a straight line versus diagonally. Penne are usually a little narrower and the ends are cut diagonally, suggesting a quill pen. Ziti are often stuffed and baked, where penne are sauced or used in pasta salads. Ziti in the US is most commonly associated with