National Linguini (Linguine) Day

Pasta holds a special place in American kitchens, with 1.3 million pounds sold in grocery stores last year alone. If packaged in 16 oz. spaghetti boxes and lined up, these packages could circle the Earth’s equator nearly nine times, illustrating just how much this staple food is consumed.

The history of pasta in America dates back to 1848 when the first commercial pasta plant was established in Brooklyn, New York by a Frenchman. But Americans’ love for pasta predates that: Thomas Jefferson brought a pasta-making machine from France in 1789 after serving as ambassador. Despite this early introduction, pasta didn’t become widely popular in the U.S. until the late 19th century.

Pasta itself has ancient origins. By 3,000 B.C., the Chinese were already eating noodles made from various grains like wheat, corn, rice, or peas. However, Italians maintain that pasta existed in Italy well before Marco Polo’s first recorded trip to China in 1255. In fact, the Romans were enjoying pasta varieties such as ravioli, lasagna, and macaroni over a decade before Polo’s journey, with references to fettuccine even earlier.

In the U.S., pasta consumption is widespread. According to the National Pasta Association, 77% of Americans eat pasta at least once a week, and one-third consume it three or more times weekly. On average, Americans eat about 20 pounds of pasta annually, though Italians consume more than three times that amount.

Pasta comes in an amazing variety of shapes—over 500 different kinds. Many have whimsical or curious names when translated into English, such as worms, spindles, hats, butterflies, twins, tubes, thimbles, little boys, little ears, quill pens, strings, and ribbons.

From ancient origins to modern-day meals, pasta continues to be a beloved and versatile food for many Americans.