It is a staple of Italian households, named after its shape: half (mezza) moon (luna). This specialty cutting instrument is very handy for chopping, especially the small stuff, like onions, parsley, etc. Used on a cutting board or in a wooden bowl, it emulates the rocking motion of a chef knife. It sometimes takes a little practice to coordinate a good rocking motion.
You can use wood bowls or a cutting board for smaller single-handle mezzalunas. Use cutting boards for larger sizes mezzaluna.
