NATIONAL PASTA DAY
National Pasta day is celebrated every October 17. The folks who created pasta definitely knew what they were doing. Hundreds of years of Italian tradition go into this simple meal. Each October, we devote a special day to this incredible dish. Pasta come in many shapes and sizes but no matter the form, it’s something nearly every American Family has grown up with.
HISTORY OF NATIONAL PASTA DAY :
Spaghetti, fettuccini, macaroni, and ravioli: pasta is undoubtably one of our favorite comfort foods. But do we know how the dish became so popular here in the states? Or where it even came from? The origins of pasta are a little difficult to trace, but many researchers support the theory that Marco Polo brought noodles back to Italy upon returning from a trip to China in 1271.
Though this theory supports a tale of discovery and adventure, Marco Polo’s travels are all retold through second hand sources, making the accuracy questionable. However, if Marco Polo did bring pasta back to Italy, he certain wasn’t the first to do so. Pasta was already a popular dish in Italy by the early 13th century. Other historians have traced pasta back to ancient Etruscan civilizations, who would grind cereals and grains before mixing them with water to produce their own pasta-like carbohydrate.
Pasta was brought to America by early Spanish settlers, but wasn’t popular until Thomas Jefferson made a trip to Paris and fell in love with macaroni (which, at the time, referred to any pasta shape). Years later, when a large group of Italian immigrants moved from Italy to America, pasta became a staple and obtainable meal in the United States.
WHY WE LOVE NATIONAL PASTA DAY :
It's good for all ages
Pasta is a timeless dish that evokes childhood memories, yet is still enjoyed far beyond childhood. It's not only ageless, but also enjoyed by both the seasoned chef and the less experienced foodie alike. Who knew that the pasta used in your top ramen could be used in a gourmet meal?
Pasta brings people together
Pasta crosses culture and dietary boundaries like almost no other single food. It's simple, accessible, and convenient, which makes it the perfect food to enjoy amongst many friends and family. In fact, pasta, meat, and rice are the three most popular foods enjoyed around the globe. So next time you're hosting a dinner party, keep in mind that pasta is a real crowdpleaser.
It comes in all shapes, sizes, and colors
Pasta shapes and colors vary due to cultural differences, ingredients, and the sauce they're paired with. Americans typically like more popularized shapes such spaghetti or fettuccine, whereas Italians prefer shapes that can hold more sauce. Kids can even get pasta in the shape of their favorite cartoon—Spongebob Mac & Cheese anyone?
