The Origins of Pasta

The ancient Egyptians were the first to make a type of pasta using a mixture of flour and water, which they shaped into small balls and dried in the sun. The Greeks and Romans also enjoyed a form of pasta, known as "lagana," which was made from a dough of flour and water that was flattened and cut into strips.

However, it was the Italians who really perfected the art of pasta-making and popularized it around the world. In the 13th century, Marco Polo brought back a type of pasta from his travels to China, which was made from a mixture of flour and water that was rolled out and cut into thin strips. This pasta, known as "laghiman," became popular in Italy and was soon being made in different shapes and sizes, including long strands of spaghetti and short, tubular shapes like macaroni.

Pasta continued to gain popularity in Italy, and by the 16th century, it had become a staple food in many parts of the country. In fact, it was so beloved that it was even served at the wedding banquet of Catherine de' Medici and Henry II of France in 1533. From there, pasta spread to other parts of Europe and eventually made its way to the New World, where it became a staple in American cuisine as well.

Today, there are hundreds of different types of pasta available, each with its own unique shape and texture. Some of the most popular include spaghetti, linguine, fettuccine, and rigatoni. But the options don't stop there - there are also more unique shapes like campanelle, farfalle, and fusilli, just to name a few. And that's not even including the various types of flour that can be used to make pasta, such as semolina, whole wheat, and even gluten-free alternatives like quinoa and chickpea flour.

At Mora Italiano, our pasta dishes are made with the freshest ingredients and cooked to perfection. Whether you're in the mood for a classic spaghetti carbonara or a more unique pumpkin ravioli, we have something for every pasta lover on our menu. And let's not forget about the sauces - we offer a variety of options, from classic tomato sauce to creamy Alfredo to a spicy arrabiata.

But pasta isn't just delicious - it's also incredibly versatile. It can be served as a simple yet satisfying meal on its own, or it can be paired with a variety of proteins and vegetables to create a more complete dish. Pasta is also a great option for entertaining, as it can be easily made in large quantities and served family-style.

So next time you're craving a delicious bowl of pasta, be sure to visit Mora Italiano in Encino, CA. Whether you prefer your pasta served up al dente with a simple tomato sauce or tossed in a creamy, indulgent Alfredo, we have something for every pasta lover on our menu. We hope to see you soon!