Tortellini are ring-shaped pieces of pasta that are believed to have been originally created in the region of Bologna and Modena in Italy. They are a type of pasta that has been around for hundreds of years and is traditionally stuffed with a mixture of meat, egg, and cheese and is often served in a broth.

Tortellini have seen a rise in popularity all over the world, so it shouldn’t be surprising that they have their own holiday. A holiday that falls on February 13th and is aptly named National Tortellini Day.

The History Of Tortellini

Unfortunately, we have been unable to uncover the roots of National Tortellini Day, but we have been able to uncover the roots of tortellini. They are believed to date back to at least the 16th century. In 1570, Bartolomeo Scappi unveiled a dish he called torteletti—which is believed to be the first incarnation of tortellini.

However, this hasn’t been proven to be true, and both Bologna and Modena claim to be the birthplace of this pasta. So needless to say, its origins are still disputed.

Since its origins are unknown, there are several legends about this dish. One legend places the origin of tortellini in the town of Castelfranco Emilia—a town located halfway between Bologna and Modena. According to this legend, the goddess Venus stops at an inn in the town, and the innkeeper spies on her through a keyhole as she undresses.

He is unable to see her entire body but can see her belly button through the keyhole. The legend says he is so inspired by the beauty of her belly button that he decides to create tortellini in its shape to honor the goddess.

Fun Facts About Tortellini

Want to learn more about tortellini? If you do, then check out these interesting and fun facts about these ring-shaped pieces of stuffed pasta.

• Tortellini is sometimes called “ombelico” pasta because they are shaped like a navel.
• Before the 19th century, tortellini was a dish often served only to the rich.
• One legend suggests that tortellini were created to resemble turtles instead of navels.
• The Learned Order of the Tortellini honors and protects the traditions surrounding tortellini.

Observing National Tortellini Day

Anyone who is yearning to celebrate National Tortellini Day can do so easily by just whipping up a bowl of this pasta. It doesn’t matter if you go with a traditional Tuscan tortellini recipe or a garlic and cheese recipe; just make sure that you make the one that you like. While you’re enjoying your pasta, be sure to take a picture of it and post it on social media using the hashtag #NationalTortelliniDay to let everyone know that you’re celebrating this tasty holiday.