On October 25, the world celebrates more than just carbohydrates — World Pasta Day is celebrated. This is not just an occasion to cook spaghetti. It is a tribute to one of the most iconic, beloved and universal dishes in world cuisine. Pasta is everywhere — from gourmet restaurants in Rome to the comfort of home kitchens. But do you know where it comes from, how many types there are and why Italians don't cut their spaghetti?
What do we know about the history of pasta?
A widespread myth claims that Marco Polo brought pasta from China in the late 13th century. The truth is a little different. Archaeological finds prove that such pasta was prepared in ancient Greece and Rome. The Latin word laganum was used for thin sheets of dough, similar to lasagna. So — no, pasta is not a Chinese "import", but rather an evolution of old recipes, processed and perfected by Italians over the centuries.
In Italian "pasta" means any type of dough made from durum wheat and water (sometimes with eggs), formed into various shapes. In Italy, there are over 350 different forms of pasta, and if we include the various local names — the number exceeds 600! From classic spaghetti, penne and fusilli to the lesser-known strocapreti, trofie and garganelli — each shape has its own logic and function. For example, rigatoni is ribbed to hold more sauce, while farfalle (ribbons) are ideal for light vegetable sauces.
In Italy, cutting and breaking pasta is considered a culinary crime. Spaghetti is twisted around a fork — most often with a spoon — but never cut. According to Italians, each shape of pasta is created with a specific length, thickness and texture to offer an optimal experience. Cutting is considered an insult to the manufacturer's craftsmanship.
World Pasta Day: How did it start?
The first World Pasta Day was celebrated in 1998 at the initiative of the International Pasta Manufacturers' Organization (IPO) and the International Pasta Congress. The goal — to promote the healthy role of pasta in the modern diet and to encourage its cultural exchange. Today, the holiday is celebrated in dozens of countries, with festivals, cooking demonstrations and, of course, many tastings.
Fun facts about pasta:
-
Italy is the world leader in pasta consumption – the average Italian eats about 23 kg of pasta per year.
-
The world record for the longest pasta was set in Japan in 2010 – a whole 3,776 meters of continuous noodles!
-
Shape matters – chefs do not accidentally select the type of pasta according to the sauce. Easily flowing sauces go with thin pasta, heavy meaty ones – with short and hollow shapes.
-
There is a pasta museum – in Rome there is the Museo Nazionale delle Paste Alimentari – the only museum dedicated entirely to the art of pasta.
-
Pasta can also be eaten sweetly – in Sicily and Calabria you will be served pasta with sugar, cinnamon and raisins.
Why is pasta so versatile?
One of the reasons for pasta's global success is its simplicity. Basic ingredients, quick preparation and almost endless possibilities for combinations. But pasta is also a cultural symbol - it brings people together at the table, regardless of their origin. It can be a dinner for two or a large family celebration. And the best thing? Anyone can cook it.
On World Pasta Day, there is no need for complicated recipes or sophisticated techniques. All you need to do is boil your favorite shape, pour over it with the sauce of your choice and enjoy it as it should be. And don't forget - never, ever serve it with ketchup. Italians simply would not forgive you for that.