Celebrated: March 20
Pasta Pockets of Perfection
Triple cheese. Wild mushroom. Butternut squash. Ravioli has range, and on March 20, we celebrate one of the most beloved and versatile stuffed pastas on the planet. Whether served in brown butter, bathed in tomato sauce, or filled with something sweet, ravioli proves pasta isn’t just a side dish—it’s the whole main event.
The History of Ravioli
The earliest known mention of ravioli comes from 14th-century Italy. In Tuscany and Venice, chefs created these filled pasta pillows to stretch ingredients and enhance flavor. The name "raviolo" is believed to derive from the Italian word riavvolgere, meaning "to wrap."
From Italy, ravioli spread across Europe and eventually the globe—each culture adapting it with local ingredients. Today, you’ll find everything from Indian-style paneer ravioli to dessert versions stuffed with chocolate and mascarpone.
Ravioli Fun Facts
- Ravioli in a Can? Yep. Chef Boyardee first canned ravioli in the 1930s, and it became a pantry staple in the U.S.
- Sweet Ravioli Exists: In Sicily, some versions are stuffed with sweetened ricotta and fried like pastries.
- Americans Love It: Ravioli ranks among the top five most popular frozen pasta dishes sold in the U.S., according to market data.
- World Records: The largest ravioli ever made weighed over 29 pounds and was created in Russia in 2013.
How to Celebrate National Ravioli Day
- Make It From Scratch: Grab a pasta roller and try homemade dough and fillings—cheese, meat, veggies, or dessert.
- Support Artisanal Brands: Try small-batch or gourmet options like Three Bridges for clean-label, chef-inspired ravioli.
- Post Your Pasta: Share your dish online using #NationalRavioliDay and tag your favorite brand or recipe.
- Teach & Taste: Host a ravioli tasting at work or school—offer several fillings and talk about their cultural roots.
Closing the Loop with Certivance
At Certivance, we help food businesses ensure their stuffed, sauced, and sealed products meet every safety and labeling standard. Whether you're launching a ravioli line or navigating dual USDA/FDA oversight, we’ve got your back.
🔗 Visit Certivance.com to learn how we help food brands build trust—bite by bite.
