Ah, pasta… The carb-loaded cuddle in a bowl most of us could enjoy after a long day!
On October 25 each year, the world unites in a glorious, glutenous celebration known as World Pasta Day!
A delicious day dedicated to the swirly, saucy joy that is pasta.
The History of Pasta
Before you get stuck into a bowl of penne, it’s worth taking a moment to appreciate pasta’s long and layered history. While Italy is widely recognised as the heartland of pasta culture, the earliest evidence of noodle-like food actually comes from China, dating back to around 5,000 B.C. – a reminder that this beloved staple has roots far beyond the Mediterranean.
As for the popular story that Marco Polo introduced pasta to Italy after his travels in Asia? It’s likely more myth than fact. Some historians suggest the tale was popularised by a Canadian pasta company in the 1920s… a clever bit of marketing that just seemed to stick around.
Fast forward to October 1995, when representatives from 40 pasta-producing countries came together for the first World Pasta Congress. Their goal was simple: to celebrate pasta’s global appeal and promote its cultural and nutritional value. From that meeting, World Pasta Day was officially established giving pasta lovers everywhere a reason to celebrate one of the world’s most versatile and comforting foods.
Fun Fact
The exact number of pasta shapes is unknown but estimates suggest there is over 350 recognized types just within Italy and some put global number of pasta shapes, including regional variations and new creations, at more than 600!
Try this 20 minute Creamy Garlic & Spinach Fettuccine recipe
Ingredients:
- 250g fettuccine
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup thickened cream
- ½ cup grated parmesan
- 2 cups baby spinach
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Optional: pinch of chilli flakes or lemon zest for extra zing
Instructions:
- Cook fettuccine in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in parmesan until melted and smooth.
- Toss in spinach and cook until wilted (about 2 minutes).
- Add cooked fettuccine to the pan and toss to coat. Season with salt, pepper, and optional chilli flakes or lemon zest.
- Serve immediately with extra parmesan on top.
Tip: Swap spinach for rocket or add grilled chicken or mushrooms for a heartier version and use Gluten Free pasta if needed.
So Happy World Pasta Day friends! May your sauce be rich, your noodles al dente, and your parmesan freshly grated.
