Pizza lovers, unite! Did you know that the world has not one but two days dedicated to celebrating the glorious creation we call pizza? The global celebration of World Pizza Day typically falls on February 9, but in Italy, the birthplace of pizza, it’s celebrated on January 17 in honor of Saint Anthony the Abbot, the patron saint of bakers. Because, let’s face it, Italians like to do pizza their way—and rightly so!
I LOVE pizza. I could honestly eat it every single day. My favorite? A classic capricciosa with its perfect mix of ham, mushrooms, olives, and artichokes. Pure perfection on a plate.
Funny (and Cheesy) Pizza Facts 🍕
- Pizza or Pie?
The word “pizza” was first recorded in 997 AD in Gaeta, Italy. But in America, it’s lovingly referred to as “pie.” Why? Because when it arrived in New York, Italian immigrants called it “pizza pie,” and the name stuck. - The Longest Pizza in the World
Hold on to your toppings! The longest pizza ever made stretched over 1.15 miles (1.85 kilometers). This epic feat took place in California in 2017, using 17,700 pounds of dough, 5,000 pounds of sauce, and 3,900 pounds of cheese! That’s a pizza party for the ages. - Pizza’s First Delivery
Believe it or not, pizza delivery started in the 1880s. Queen Margherita of Savoy requested a pizza from Naples’ pizzaiolo Raffaele Esposito. He whipped up the iconic Margherita pizza, featuring tomato, mozzarella, and basil to represent the colors of the Italian flag. - Pineapple Debate
Ah, the great pineapple-on-pizza debate. Did you know this controversial topping didn’t come from Italy? It was actually invented in Canada in 1962 by a Greek immigrant named Sam Panopoulos. For me pineapple on a pizza, no, just NO! In my opinion, it’s not a pizza, and they shouldn’t even be allowed to call it that! Pineapple belongs in desserts or fruit salads, not on a perfectly crafted pizza dough. - Most Expensive Pizza
Would you spend $12,000 on a pizza? The “Louis XIII” pizza in Salerno, Italy, holds the title for the priciest pizza. It’s topped with caviar, lobster, and 24-karat gold flakes. Fancy, huh?
Unusual Pizza Toppings from Around the Globe 🌍
- In Japan, mayo and squid on pizza are popular.
- In Brazil, pizza is often topped with green peas.
- In India, you’ll find pizzas with tandoori chicken or paneer.
- And in Sweden, a popular variety includes bananas and curry sauce (yes, really!).
Celebrate Your Way
So, how will you celebrate World Pizza Day? Whether you’re a classic Margherita fan, a pepperoni lover, or a seafood enthusiast, grab a slice (or three) and raise your pizza to this beloved dish. Whether it’s with a thin, crispy crust, a stuffed deep dish, or a Neapolitan classic, make sure to enjoy it your way (just no pineapples, please). For me, I’ll stick to my beloved capricciosa and dream of a world where every slice is just as perfect.
Happy Pizza Day! 🍕 May your cheese be gooey, your crusts be golden, and your toppings not include pineapples!
And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try baking your own pizza at home? It’s incredibly satisfying!
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