With hundreds of different types of food and cuisine out there in the world, it certainly speaks volumes that Italian food reigns as one of the most popular. Whether it’s the pasta, the pizza, or the creamy risotto, Italian cuisine is so delicious that you’ll be begging for another bite.

Sure, you love eating Italian food, but what if that’s not enough? Well, look no further because today, we’re going to tell you some interesting facts about Italian food. Andiamo!

1. It’s All in the Sauce… Or Is It?

Whether you eat it at home or you take a trip to a nice Italian restaurant, pasta is always a win. Even if you swear by your mother’s recipe, pasta from an Italian restaurant or from a true Italian will taste much better. But why?

The secret is in the sauce. Is it more garlic? Cheese?

It’s actually pasta water! When you cook your pasta, be sure to save some when you drain it. Then, add in a little bit to your sauce so it gets so much more flavor!

And while you're at it, always mix your pasta into the sauce!

2. Pasta Galore

Okay, we’re not done talking about pasta. And we’re definitely not done eating it. Especially Italians.

When it comes to the diverse dish, the average Italian eats about 50 pounds of pasta every year! Not only that, but around 25% of Italians eat pasta every single day. An even larger amount, we’re talking 90% of Italians, eat pasta more than once a week!

Pasta is so delicious and can be prepared in so many different ways that this likely isn’t too surprising. You may even be a bit envious. Just remember, it’s all in the sauce.

3. The Truth About Pizza

There is a lot of misinformation and misconceptions about the origin of pizza. Some will say it is Italian, others will say it’s not. So what’s the truth?

Well, let’s start at the beginning. Pizza itself is native to Italy. It was created in Naples in 1889.

Pepperoni pizza, however, is not Italian. Pepperoni pizza is an American delicacy! The popular pizza choice in Italy often referred to as The Queen, is la Margherita pizza.

4. Tomatoes

You wouldn’t be alone in thinking that tomatoes are a staple in Italian cuisine. You’re not wrong, they definitely are. What’s shocking is that tomatoes weren’t always present in Italian food.

In fact, tomatoes aren’t even from Italy. The fruit was brought over to the country from the Americas, landing in Tuscany in 1548. Mamma mia, what a shock, right?

5. Italian Cuisine: It’s All a Myth

The fact of the matter is that Italian cuisine is a very general term that encompasses all Italian food. Each region in Italy has a very different style of food. So to group them together is fundamentally incorrect.

While this may have just shattered your world view, don’t worry. That just means there are more types of Italian food for you to try!

Facts About Italian Food

Now an American favorite, Italian food is not only exquisite but is so interesting. With this handful of facts about Italian food, hopefully, your next time eating will be even better than the last.

Do you live in Portland, Oregon? Are you craving some amazing Italian food? Contact us to place an order today!