F. Dick 9-inch Single Blade Mezzaluna

Mincing herbs, chopping vegetables and preparing salads go quickly with a mezzaluna, a curved blade rocked back and forth across the board. This 9-inch F. Dick single-blade model gives speed and control with a simple rocking motion.

A mezzaluna keeps both hands on the tool and away from the edge, which makes it safer than a chef’s knife for rapid mincing. The long curve covers a wide pile of parsley or basil with each rock, and a single blade is easier to clean and to keep sharp than a double one. It also chops nuts and dried fruit evenly.

It is also useful for chopping a large salad directly on the board before serving.

For smaller amounts of herbs, the 1905 4.5-inch herb knife is quicker to pick up. Use the mezzaluna on a wide wooden or plastic board, and wipe the blade clean between herbs to keep flavors separate.