Triple cheese. Wild mushroom. Butternut squash. Ravioli can handle just about anything. It’s also one of America’s favorite foods. That’s why we’re proud to have Three Bridges along for our annual National Ravioli Day celebration on March 20. As you’ll see, this particular pasta goes back to the 14th century. No surprise there. Ravioli can work for any meal of the day — including dessert! The best part? You can have ready-made ravioli ready in about 10 minutes. Read on for a fun look at where ravioli came from — and a tasty preview of how you can enjoy all the varieties.
National Ravioli Day timeline
- January 2019
End of a (ravioli) era
Landmark downtown San Francisco restaurant Lucca Ravioli announced plans to close. The red, white, and green building stood on the corner of 22nd and Valencia for 94 years.
- 2000
Ravioli meme
Plankton, a "SpongeBob SquarePants" character, achieved internet meme status with his memorable quote: "Ravioli, ravioli, give me the formu-oli!"
- 1549
Ravioli finds religion
Bartolomeo Scappi served ravioli to the papal conclave in Rome. Fillings included boiled pork belly, Parmesan cheese, sugar, herbs, spices, and raisins.
- 14th century
Royal ravioli
King Richard II's chefs mentioned ravioli in a British cookbook. The dish was referred to as “rauioles.”
- 14th century
The first mention of ravioli
Ravioli first appeared in the personal letters of Francesco di Marco Datini, a Prato merchant.
5 Reasons Ravioli's So Versatile
It's a "wrap"
The word ravioli comes from the Italian word “riavvolgere” which means “to wrap."
Ravioli soup
Kreplach, popular in traditional Jewish homes, are small dumplings typically filled with meat or chicken. They're folded into triangles and often served in soup — especially during the holiday of Purim.
A "ravioli toast" to St. Louis
You can trace the roots of toasted ravioli (breaded and deep fried) to an Italian neighborhood known as "The Hill."
Naked ravioli?
It's actually a bowl of ravioli filling without the pasta shell — if you're looking for something lighter.
Ravioli for dessert
That's correct. Our favorite Three Bridges recipe? "Butternut Ravioli Beignets." Lightly dusted with powdered sugar of course.
National Ravioli Day Activities
Try some new recipes
Check out Three Bridges for dozens of ideas including "Grilled Chicken & Mozzarella Ravioli with Arugula Pesto and Tomatoes."
Alternative prep
You can pan sear Three Bridges ravioli, or put it in the oven with sauce.
Create original side dishes
If you're feeling inspired (and have the time), consider mixing up a ravioli salad.
Why We Love National Ravioli Day
So many options
Keep it traditional with meats and cheeses. Or go organic by adding beets, spinach, or mushrooms. The superfood kale makes a great filling too.
Kid-friendly
Veggie ravioli can inspire kids to eat healthier. And remember our tip about desserts!
History in the making
Over 700 years and still as popular as ever. What will ravioli dishes look like in 2119?
Also on Thu Mar 20, 2025...
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