National Lasagna Day

National Lasagna Day brings together everyone who loves this hearty and incredibly flavorful dish. You don’t have to be Italian to join the celebration—just visit a restaurant or make your own lasagna at home. It doesn’t require many ingredients: meat, vegetables, cheese, tomato sauce, and a special type of pasta.

History

Lasagna is rightly considered an Italian dish, as it originated in Naples and made its way to the United States in the 19th century. However, its roots go even deeper. The word “lasagna” comes from the ancient Greek term laganon, which referred to the first type of pasta used in Greece.

While laganon and modern lasagna aren’t identical, the concept of layering pasta with sauce and baking it was already present. The Italians enriched this basic idea by adding ingredients that transformed it into the rich, layered lasagna we know today. A similar Roman-era dish called lasanum also existed, though the name referred more to the cookware than the food itself.

Interesting Facts About Lasagna

• In different parts of Italy, lasagna noodles vary—wavy in the south, flat in the north.
• Many Italian families have personal lasagna recipes passed down through generations.
• Eggs weren’t added to lasagna dough until the Renaissance, and tomatoes didn’t appear in the recipe until the late 19th century. The first layered lasagna was made by Francesco Zambrini from Bologna.
• Believe it or not, you can cook lasagna using a dishwasher. Just seal the ingredients, place the container securely, and run the ‘Dry’ cycle.

How to Take Part

Visit an Italian restaurant and enjoy a traditional slice of lasagna. If you love to cook, make your own using your favorite ingredients—add extra vegetables, herbs, or even switch up the meat. A glass of wine pairs wonderfully with the dish. You can also organize a recipe contest on social media and share photos using the hashtag #NationalLasagnaDay.

When is National Lasagna Day in 2025?

National Lasagna Day is observed on July 29 each year.

Observations