In the world of pasta, there’s a creamy, velvety sauce that has captured the hearts and palates of Italian food lovers for decades. You guessed it, Alfredo sauce. This classic concoction of butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese also has a rich history, believe it or not! So, in honor of one of our favorite sauces, we’re dedicating this blog to all things Alfredo – from origins to fun facts!
The Birth of Alfredo Sauce
The origin story of Alfredo sauce begins in the bustling streets of Rome in the early 20th century. Alfredo di Lelio, a skilled chef, created the iconic sauce in 1908. The sauce was crafted as a remedy for his wife’s pregnancy-related loss of appetite. di Leio’s original recipe, “fettuccine al triplo burro” or fettuccine with triple butter, featured pasta bathed in a luscious blend of butter and Parmesan. The dish quickly gained popularity (of course). Thus, becoming a signature item at Alfredo’s restaurant, “Alfredo alla Scrofa.” Still standing today, the restaurants top seller is the classic Alfredo.
Alfredo Goes Hollywood
The fame of Alfredo sauce wasn’t confined to the borders of Italy. In the 1920s, Hollywood celebrities discovered the delectable dish during their visits to Rome. The creamy pasta enchanted legends like Douglas Fairbanks and Mary Pickford, and upon returning to the United States, they popularized it among their peers. Fettuccine Alfredo soon became a symbol of elegance and indulgence in the American culinary scene.
Fun Facts
- While the original Alfredo sauce recipe hails from Italy, variations of the sauce have been created worldwide. In the United States, it often includes heavy cream and garlic. However, in the UK, the dish may be enriched with eggs. Each region has put its unique twist on Alfredo, adding diversity to this beloved pasta sauce.
- In honor of its popularity, February 7th is celebrated as National Fettuccine Alfredo Day. Pasta lovers around the world take this opportunity to indulge in the rich, buttery goodness of Alfredo sauce.
- Traditional Alfredo sauce can be heavy on calories. Health-conscious individuals have come up with lighter versions. Several use ingredients like Greek yogurt or low-fat milk to achieve the same creamy texture with fewer calories.
Get the Best Italian Food at Shirley Sub Shoppe!
At Shirley Sub Shoppe, we do more than just subs; we also have some of the best Italian food in town! Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet or savory, we have a little bit of everything at our restaurant to settle those cravings. To explore all of our delicious food options, we encourage you to check out our online menu or stop in and dine with us today!