Spaghetti, penne, rigatoni, farfalle and hundreds more: pasta comes in an astonishing variety of shapes and sizes. National Pasta Day, on October 17, celebrates this beloved staple, which is affordable, versatile and loved by people of all ages. Whether you prefer a simple tomato sauce, creamy Alfredo or a hearty baked dish, it's a perfect day for a pasta dinner.
History of National Pasta Day
Pasta has been eaten in Italy for centuries. The Arab geographer al-Idrisi described dried pasta being made in Sicily in 1154. Durum wheat, which holds its shape well, made Italian dried pasta famous.
A popular myth says Marco Polo brought pasta from China, but pasta existed in Italy before his travels.
In the United States, Thomas Jefferson enjoyed pasta and reportedly brought a pasta machine back from Europe. In 1848, Antoine Zerega opened one of the first pasta factories in Brooklyn, New York. Italian immigration from the 1880s to 1920 made pasta a staple of American cooking. World Pasta Day is celebrated on October 25. Who created National Pasta Day is not documented.
Pasta shapes often have playful names. Farfalle means 'butterflies', orecchiette means 'little ears', and vermicelli means 'little worms'. Italian cooks match shapes to sauces carefully: ridged or tubular pasta holds chunky sauces, while thin strands suit light oil or tomato sauces.
Why National Pasta Day Matters
Pasta is affordable, filling and easy to prepare, making it a staple for families.
It connects to Italian culture and the history of Italian immigrants in America.
Pasta shapes are designed to match sauces, making pasta a fun way to explore cooking.
Pasta also makes cooking accessible to beginners. With a pot of boiling water, a few ingredients and simple techniques, anyone can make a satisfying meal. Classic dishes like aglio e olio, made with garlic, olive oil and chili flakes, show that great pasta doesn't require complicated recipes.
How to Celebrate National Pasta Day
- Cook pasta al dente: boil until tender but firm.
- Try a new shape: experiment with orecchiette or bucatini.
- Make fresh pasta: try homemade fettuccine.
- Save pasta water: use it to help sauce cling.
- Host a pasta night: serve different sauces.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, a pasta lunch is an easy team meal; include gluten-free options. In classrooms, students can sort pasta shapes, use pasta for math activities or learn about Italian immigration. At home, families can make fresh pasta together, try new shapes or let children choose sauces.
Fun Facts About National Pasta Day
- Al-Idrisi described dried pasta in Sicily in 1154.
- Marco Polo did not introduce pasta to Italy.
- Antoine Zerega opened a pasta factory in Brooklyn in 1848.
National Pasta Day FAQs
When is National Pasta Day?
National Pasta Day is October 17.
Did Marco Polo bring pasta to Italy?
No; pasta existed in Italy before his travels.
What does al dente mean?
'To the tooth', meaning tender but firm.
When is World Pasta Day?
October 25.