Lisa O
People from all over the world love pizza and eat it regularly. Originating from Naples, Italy, this delicious dish has evolved and taken on many different forms and flavors across different cultures. Here are some tasty facts about pizza that prove its rich history and popularity!
Napoli, Italy
Pizza originated in Naples, Italy in the 18th century. It was a simple dish made with dough, tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese, and it quickly became a staple food for the working class. The authentic Neapolitan pizza is still made with specific ingredients and a specific method, with the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana (AVPN) preserving its traditional preparation techniques.
Lombardi’s in New York
The first pizza restaurant in the United States, Lombardi’s, opened in 1905 in New York City. It brought the flavorful tradition of Neapolitan pizza to American soil and paved the way for the pizza culture that exists today. Lombardi’s is a must-visit destination for pizza enthusiasts!
World’s Largest Pizza
In 1990, South Africa created the world’s largest pizza, measuring a whopping 122 feet in diameter! This massive pizza required a team effort to prepare and bake, delighting thousands of people who gathered to witness this extraordinary culinary feat.
Global Popularity
Pizza is one of the most popular foods worldwide, with an estimated 5 billion pizzas being consumed globally each year. Its versatility and a wide variety of flavors make it super appealing. From thin crust to deep dish and from classic Margherita to experimental toppings, there is a pizza for every palate.
Margherita Pizza
The Margherita pizza is named after Queen Margherita of Italy. In 1889, to honor her, a pizzaiolo created a pizza topped with tomatoes (red), mozzarella cheese (white), and basil leaves (green), which reflected the colors of the Italian flag. This iconic pizza is not only aesthetically pleasing but also very simple and fresh!
Hawaiian Pizza
The Hawaiian pizza, topped with ham and pineapple, was actually created in Canada in the 1960s by Sam Panopoulos. Despite the ongoing debates about fruit on pizza, it has become a popular choice for many pizza lovers. The combination of the tanginess from the pineapple and the saltiness from the ham creates a unique and contrasting flavor profile.
National Pizza Month
October is celebrated as National Pizza Month in the United States. This month-long celebration recognizes the huge popularity and influence of pizza in American culture. It encourages pizza lovers to explore new pizzerias, try inventive pizza recipes, and enjoy their diverse pizza offerings.
Frozen Pizza
The convenience of frozen pizza became a reality in 1951, when the Celentano Brothers of New Jersey introduced the first frozen pizza. This innovation helped people enjoy pizza in their own homes. Today, frozen pizzas come in many different flavors and styles, catering to various dietary preferences and taste preferences.
Pepperoni
Pepperoni is the most popular pizza topping in the United States, accounting for approximately 36% of all topping choices. Its spicy and savory flavor adds a delicious kick to any slice. The thinly sliced cured pork and the blend of spices used in making pepperoni also contribute to its rich taste.
Healthy Breakfast Option
A surprising study conducted in 2017 found that pizza could be a healthier breakfast option than typical cereals. This finding is attributed to the balanced combination of carbohydrates, fats, and protein found in pizza, especially if it includes whole grain crust, quality cheese, and nutrient-rich toppings like vegetables.