Ravioli are staples of Italian cuisine and widely beloved throughout the United States. This pasta dish consists of square pockets of dough stuffed with meat, cheese, or vegetables, boiled, then topped with savory sauce. In honor of National Ravioli Day, celebrated on March 20th, here are some fun facts about this Italian favorite.

4 Fun Facts About Ravioli Pasta

1. What’s in a Name?

When stuffed pasta first emerged in Italy, it was dubbed “ravioli” (singular: raviolo). The precise origin of the name is unclear. Francesco di Marco, a 14th-century merchant of Venice, was the first person to mention ravioli in writing. Some believe the term derives from the Italian “riavvolgere,” meaning “to wrap.” Others claim the pasta takes the surname of the 13th century chef who invented it. 

2. Unusual Sauces, Doughs & Fillings 

Though tomato, bolognese, and alfredo sauces are most commonly served atop cheese- and meat-stuffed ravioli, there are several creative variations. One popular autumn ravioli dish features pumpkin or butternut squash stuffing and a brown butter and sage sauce. There are also dessert versions prepared with chocolate or vanilla dough and filled with fruit, marmalade, or hazelnut spread. 

3. Ravioli in Other Cultures

The popular Indian dish known as gujiya bears a resemblance to ravioli. However, this version is deep-fried and almost exclusively prepared with sweet ingredients, including dried fruit, sugar, and dessert spices. The Jewish dish kreplach is more similar to ravioli, since it features egg pasta stuffed with meat and other fillings.

4. World Records

Ravioli are also in the Guinness Book of World Records™. In August of 2013, health and beauty product company Amway™ created a raviolo in St. Petersburg, Russia, that measured a whopping 96 feet, making it the longest raviolo in history and the tastiest publicity stunt of all time.  

The next time you have a craving for ravioli and other Italian cuisine classics, dine in or order takeout from Inzillo's Pizza. They offer specialty pizzas, calzones, pastas, and salads to hungry patrons throughout Jackson, NJ. Call (732) 370-0310 to schedule pizza delivery or catering, and visit them online to view the complete menu. Check out their Facebook for tasty and affordable specials and reviews from satisfied customers.