Features and Types
L'Arcolaio's pots and pans catalogue brings together brands with a long history in kitchenware production. Agnelli, present with over 170 items, sits alongside Ballarini, Guzzini and Zani Serafino in a selection ranging from everyday use to more elaborate preparations.
Non-stick aluminium frying pans
Aluminium frying pans are lightweight, conduct heat evenly and wash quickly. The high flared 28 cm Agnelli frying pan with stainless steel handle is designed for tossing: the high edge contains splashes and the base is suitable for induction hobs. Ballarini offers professional frying pans with long-lasting non-stick coatings, designed for intense everyday use. Guzzini completes the offer with the Cook&Colorline, available in diameters from 24 to 32 cm, in a colour palette ranging from navy blue to cream.
Pots for induction: what changes compared to standard aluminium
Not all aluminium frying pans work on induction hobs: you need a dedicated magnetic base. In the catalogue you'll find models — such as Agnelli high non-stick frying pans — explicitly designed with an induction-compatible base. Cast iron, present in some lines, is compatible with all hobs without exception. Before purchasing, always check the induction symbol on the product sheet.
Skillets and saucepans
The skillet with two handles is the classic choice for risottos, sauces and stews. The 20 cm Agnelli aluminium skillet with double handles is robust and easy to handle even when full. For generous portions or family-sized preparations, tall aluminium saucepans with diameters from 24 cm upwards easily cover the needs of 3–4 people.
Wok
The 32 cm wok from the Guzzini Cook&Color line is designed for fast high-temperature cooking: the concave base allows you to move ingredients and toss them without them falling out of the pan. Ideal for vegetables, stir-fried rice and Asian-inspired preparations.
Griddle pans and oven trays
The griddle pan creates grill marks on the hob: fats drain into the grooves and the meat develops a more intense flavour compared to a flat pan. The rectangular blue sheet Agnelli trays — available in 35×28×3 cm and 45×35×3 cm formats — go straight into the oven: pizza, bread, savoury pies and yeasted bakes. The conical 32 cm Agnelli cake tins cover the most classic baked desserts. Among this season's novelties, the catalogue also includes the 36 cm Agnelli colander in aluminium and the Gastronorm tray in aluminium for professional kitchens.
Pots in ceramic and borosilicate glass
For those seeking alternatives to aluminium, some lines offer ceramic coatings that don't require synthetic non-stick substances. Those wishing to combine borosilicate glass accessories for serving or storing with cooking will find a dedicated selection on the borosilicate glass WD LifeStyle glasses.
Matching accessories
Tempered glass lids — such as the 24 cm curved Cook&Color Guzzini lid — let you monitor cooking without lifting the lid. Bizzotto coasters (Soraia and Vitoria lines, in square and round 20 cm formats) protect your worktop. For those using disposable aluminium moulds, the Contital range completes your collection with cake tins and disposable oven containers.
How to choose the right pot or pan
For the type of cooking
- Quick and healthy cooking → non-stick aluminium frying pan, 24–26 cm
- Meat and high temperatures → ridged griddle pan or cast-iron frying pan
- Stir-fries and Asian cuisine → 32 cm wok with concave base
- Sauces, risottos, stews → skillet or tall saucepan with two handles
- Oven: desserts, bread, pizza → conical cake tin or sheet Agnelli
For the number of people
24 cm frying pans cover 1–2 servings. The 28–32 cm size is suitable for 3–4 people. Agnelli trays of 45×35 cm are designed for generous preparations. Around the table, a 24 cm saucepan with two handles easily handles 3–4 servings.
For the type of hob
Induction, gas, glass-ceramic, electric: not all materials work on every hob. Pure aluminium doesn't conduct with induction — you need a magnetic base. Agnelli high non-stick frying pans for induction have this feature declared. Cast iron is universal. Always check the technical sheet of the model you've chosen.
Pot to give as a Christmas gift: a few practical tips
December is peak season for buying pots and pans as gifts. A frying pan + matching lid set from the Guzzini Cook&Color line works well as a practical gift for someone who has just moved house. A 45×35 cm Agnelli sheet tray is a concrete idea for those who bake bread at home. For those who prefer brands with history, Ballarini (since 1889) offers professional aluminium frying pans suitable for both experienced cooks and beginners. If you're building a complete kitchen set, pair pots and pans with a selection of Ballarini cutlery and accessories to complete your collection.
FAQ
Are Agnelli pots compatible with induction hobs?
It depends on the model. Agnelli high non-stick frying pans are designed with an induction-compatible base. Sheet trays and standard aluminium skillets are not suitable. Check the induction symbol on the product sheet before purchasing.
What's the difference between a non-stick frying pan and a cast-iron one?
A non-stick aluminium frying pan is lightweight, requires little seasoning and cleans in seconds: the right choice for quick everyday cooking. Cast iron retains heat much longer and is suitable for browning meat at high temperatures or for prolonged stovetop or oven cooking. It's compatible with all hobs, including induction.
How do you choose the right diameter?
For 1–2 people: 16–24 cm. For 3–4 people: 24–28 cm. For generous preparations or large families: 28–32 cm, or rectangular trays such as Agnelli 45×35 cm ones. Also consider the available space on your hobs or induction hob.
How is the non-stick coating preserved over time?
Use silicone or wooden utensils, wash with a soft sponge, don't heat the pan empty at high temperature and don't put it in the dishwasher unless explicitly stated on the packaging. With these precautions, the coating lasts much longer.
Aluminium or ceramic pots: which to choose?
Aluminium guarantees excellent heat conduction and contained weights. Ceramic coating doesn't require the use of traditional non-stick substances and is perceived as more natural by those attentive to coating ingredients. In both cases, the choice depends on the type of cooking and frequency of use.
Why buy from L'Arcolaio
L'Arcolaio was founded in 2000 in Pignataro Interamna, just a few minutes from Cassino exit on the A1 motorway. In the 5,000 m² showroom you'll find the complete selection of Agnelli, Ballarini, Guzzini, Zani Serafino and Tognana pots and pans on display, with the option to collect your order directly from the store. Deliveries reach all of Italy and 21 European countries.
To complete the kitchen, also explore the EDG Enzo De Gasperi vases for the table and decorations, or Contital containers for disposable aluminium baking moulds. If you're interested in borosilicate glass for serving and drinking, the borosilicate glass WD LifeStyle glasses page has the dedicated selection.
