National Tortellini Day (February 13)
Celebrate National Tortellini Day on February 13 with a comforting bowl of this classic Italian pasta. Whether you love it in broth or tossed in a creamy sauce, it’s a great excuse to slow down and enjoy a favorite meal.
From its legendary origins to modern traditions, this quirky February food holiday is all about appreciating one of Italy’s most loved dishes.
When is the Holiday?
It’s celebrated every year on February 13th. It’s the perfect excuse to enjoy this classic pasta dish, whether you like it served in broth or tossed in a rich, creamy sauce.
Who Invented It?
No one knows exactly who started National Tortellini Day, but the pasta itself dates back to medieval Italy.
According to legend, tortellini was created after an innkeeper was inspired by the navel of Venus, the Roman goddess of love. While the holiday doesn’t have an official founder, the tradition of enjoying tortellini has been passed down for generations, making it a staple of Italian cuisine.
The History of the Holiday
Tortellini is a traditional Italian pasta filled with prosciutto, mortadella, and Parmigiano-Reggiano. It’s most often served in broth or paired with rich, creamy sauces.
The dish is closely linked to Bologna, where it’s enjoyed during holidays and family gatherings. According to legend, tortellini was created in the 1500s after an innkeeper was inspired by the navel of Venus, the Roman goddess of love.
As its popularity grew, the recipe became more standardized. In 1974, an official version was registered with the Chamber of Commerce in Bologna to preserve its traditional preparation.
Top 5 Facts About the Holiday
- It’s often called ombelico in Italian, meaning “belly button,” because of its shape.
- The earliest written tortellini recipe dates back to the 1500s.
- In Bologna, tortellini is traditionally served in brodo (broth), not with sauce.
- An official recipe was registered in Bologna in 1974 to protect its authenticity.
- It is typically filled with a mix of pork and cheese, though modern versions include many variations.
Coloring Page
This free tortellini coloring page is a fun, low-prep way for kids to celebrate pasta day while building creativity and fine motor skills.
Activities to Celebrate
- Host a tortellini-making party where guests can try their hand at stuffing and shaping their own pasta.
- Organize a “Tortellini Tasting Night” with different sauces and fillings to sample.
- Challenge friends and family to a tortellini-eating contest.
- Create a DIY tortellini gift basket filled with ingredients and recipes for friends.
- Explore regional Italian wines that pair well with tortellini and host a mini wine-tasting event.
Related Recipes for the Holiday
- 20-Minute Tortellini Pasta Carbonara – Bacon, broccoli, and creamy sauce come together for a quick, tasty meal.
- Tri-Color Tortellini with Basil Pesto – A vibrant dish perfect for any celebration.
- One-Pan Sausage Tortellini Skillet – A quick and easy recipe that brings big flavors with minimal effort.
- Creamy Bacon and Chicken Tortellini – A comforting dish featuring sun-dried tomatoes and a creamy sauce.
- Pesto Tortellini Salad – A fresh, flavorful dish that’s great for parties and gatherings.
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Links to Resources
- Tortellini Pasta Maker – Roll and cut fresh pasta dough to the perfect thickness for stuffing and shaping homemade tortellini with ease.
- Essentials of Classic Italian Cooking Cookbook – A trusted classic featuring authentic Italian recipes, including traditional tortellini, with expert tips and techniques.
- Silicone Baking Mat – A reusable, non-stick surface that makes rolling pasta dough easier and keeps your workspace mess-free.
Related Holidays
- National Spaghetti Day (January 4) – A classic pasta night with plenty of sauce options.
- National Lasagna Day (July 29) – Layers of pasta, cheese, and comfort-food energy.
- National Lemon Juice Day (August 29) – Celebrate bright, citrus flavors that pair surprisingly well with creamy pasta dishes.
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