National Lasagna Day is celebrated every year on July 29th, dedicated to one of Italy’s most beloved layered dishes: rich, hearty lasagna.
History of National Lasagna Day
Lasagna’s roots trace back to ancient Greece and Rome, where flat sheets of dough were layered with sauce, though the dish familiar today developed largely in Italy during the Middle Ages. The word “lasagna” is believed to derive from the Greek word “laganon,” referring to a flat sheet of pasta dough, which the Romans later adapted into their own version called “lasagnae.”
Modern lasagna, layered with tomato sauce, cheese, and often meat, developed significantly in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, particularly around the city of Bologna, known for its rich culinary traditions. Italian immigrants brought lasagna recipes to the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, where the dish became a beloved staple of Italian-American cuisine, often adapted with regional variations and ingredient substitutions along the way.
How to Celebrate National Lasagna Day
- Make a batch of homemade lasagna from scratch (recipe below)
- Visit a local Italian restaurant known for great lasagna
- Try a new lasagna variation, like a vegetarian or white sauce version
- Host a lasagna dinner for family or friends
- Share your lasagna creation on social media using #NationalLasagnaDay
Simple Classic Lasagna Recipe
Ingredients (serves 8):
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions, then drain.
- In a skillet, brown ground beef or sausage over medium heat, then stir in marinara sauce and simmer for 5-10 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, half the mozzarella, Parmesan, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Layer noodles, ricotta mixture, and meat sauce, repeating layers until ingredients are used, ending with sauce on top.
- Sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese over the top layer.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
- Let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Fun Facts About Lasagna
- The word “lasagna” is believed to derive from the Greek word “laganon,” referring to a flat sheet of pasta dough.
- Lasagna developed significantly in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, particularly around Bologna.
- Traditional Italian lasagna often uses a bechamel (white) sauce rather than the ricotta cheese commonly used in American versions.
- Lasagna can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen before baking, making it a popular make-ahead meal.
- The layering technique in lasagna allows it to hold together well, making it easier to serve in clean slices compared to many other pasta dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is National Lasagna Day?
National Lasagna Day is celebrated annually on July 29th.
What’s the difference between American and traditional Italian lasagna?
Traditional Italian lasagna, especially from the Bologna region, often uses a bechamel white sauce, while American lasagna typically relies on ricotta cheese as the primary layering ingredient.
Can I make lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, lasagna can be fully assembled and refrigerated for up to a day before baking, or frozen unbaked for longer storage, making it a convenient make-ahead dish.