Rustichella d'Abruzzo Orecchiette

Orecchiette, meaning "little ears," is the classic shape of of Puglia. The pasta is made by pressing pieces of dough with the thumb, and if you look closely, you can actually see a fingerprint in each one. Orecchiette are traditionally served alla Pugliese (with broccoli rabe, sausage, crushed chile flakes and garlic) or with a hearty meat sauce that can be cupped in the dumplings. These little ears are also wonderful in pasta salads.