Linguine is a long, flat pasta, wider than spaghetti but narrower than fettuccine. Its name means 'little tongues' in Italian. National Linguine Day, on September 15, celebrates this versatile pasta, which pairs perfectly with seafood, pesto and light sauces. Whether you twirl it with clams, shrimp scampi or basil pesto, linguine makes a satisfying meal.
History of National Linguine Day
Pasta has been eaten in Italy for centuries. By the 1100s, dried pasta was being produced in Sicily, according to the Arab geographer al-Idrisi, who described pasta-making near Palermo in 1154.
Linguine originated in Liguria, the coastal region of northwestern Italy around Genoa. Its flat shape holds light sauces well, especially pesto alla genovese, the famous basil sauce of Genoa. In the Campania region around Naples, linguine is often served with clams, a dish called linguine alle vongole.
Italian immigrants brought linguine and other pastas to the United States in the late 1800s and early 1900s, and Italian American restaurants made dishes like linguine with clam sauce popular. Who created National Linguine Day is not documented.
Why National Linguine Day Matters
Linguine is a delicious example of how pasta shapes are designed to match sauces, a key principle of Italian cooking.
It connects to regional Italian traditions, from Genoa's pesto to Naples' seafood.
Linguine dishes are often quick to make, making them great for weeknight meals. Learning to cook pasta al dente and to finish it in the sauce are skills that improve any pasta dish.
Pasta is also one of the most affordable and versatile foods in the world. A box of linguine, some garlic, olive oil and whatever vegetables or seafood are available can become a delicious meal in minutes. Learning a few classic pasta dishes is one of the most useful skills a home cook can have.
How to Celebrate National Linguine Day
- Make linguine with clams: cook clams with garlic, white wine and parsley.
- Try pesto: toss linguine with fresh basil pesto.
- Make shrimp scampi: sauté shrimp with garlic and butter.
- Cook al dente: boil pasta until tender but firm.
- Save pasta water: use starchy water to help sauce cling.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, a pasta lunch with linguine and a few sauces is an easy team meal; include gluten-free options. In classrooms, students can learn about Italian regions, compare pasta shapes and the sauces they pair with, or practice measuring for a recipe. At home, families can make fresh pesto together using a food processor, cook linguine and toss it with sauce. Children can help pick basil leaves and grate cheese.
Fun Facts About National Linguine Day
- 'Linguine' means 'little tongues' in Italian.
- Linguine comes from Liguria, near Genoa.
- Al-Idrisi described pasta-making in Sicily in 1154.
National Linguine Day FAQs
When is National Linguine Day?
National Linguine Day is September 15.
What does linguine mean?
'Little tongues' in Italian.
Where does linguine come from?
Liguria, in northwestern Italy.
What sauce goes best with linguine?
Pesto, clam sauce and light seafood sauces are classics.