April 6 marks the annual celebration of Carbonara Day, a day dedicated to one of Italy's most beloved dishes. This year, the event celebrates its ninth edition, continuing to grow in popularity since its inception in 2017 by the pasta makers of Unione Italiana Food and the International Pasta Organisation. Carbonara, with its simple yet iconic ingredients—pasta, guanciale, eggs, pecorino romano, and black pepper—has captured the hearts of food lovers around the world.
The theme for the 2025 Carbonara Day is #FormatoCarbonara, inviting fans to explore the best pasta shapes for this classic dish. According to a recent survey by AstraRicerche, 93.4% of Italians believe that the shape of the pasta is crucial for the success of the dish. Among them, 57.9% prefer long pasta, while 36.8% opt for shorter varieties. Spaghetti remains the most popular choice, selected by 59.9% of respondents, followed by rigatoni at 24.6% and penne at 19.9%.
In 2024, Italian consumers devoured over 100 million kilograms of spaghetti, highlighting the enduring love for this dish. Interestingly, the survey revealed that 8 out of 10 Italians are open to trying Carbonara with less traditional pasta shapes, such as linguine or even orecchiette. This reflects a growing trend towards experimentation and innovation in Italian cuisine.
Carbonara is not just a dish; it is a ritual for many Italians. More than half of those surveyed (55.3%) prepare it at home more than once a month, with 21.5% making it at least once a month. The dish is a symbol of comfort and tradition, often enjoyed during gatherings and family meals. Guanciale, a type of cured pork cheek, is considered essential by 61.1% of Italians, who prefer it crispy, adding to the dish's rich and savory flavor.
As Carbonara Day approaches, the excitement builds among food enthusiasts. This year's celebration will feature three Chef Ambassadors: Barbara Agosti, known for her creative takes on Carbonara in Milan; Sarah Cicolini, a Roman chef who champions rigatoni; and Luciano Monosilio, celebrated as the "King of Carbonara" for his expertise with spaghetti. Each ambassador brings their unique flair to the dish, showcasing the versatility and adaptability of Carbonara.
In addition to the chefs, a host of food creators and influencers will participate in the event, sharing their interpretations of Carbonara across social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and X. The hashtag #CarbonaraDay has already generated millions of posts, reflecting the dish's popularity and the community it fosters among pasta lovers.
Margherita Mastromauro, president of the pasta makers of Unione Italiana Food, emphasized the significance of Carbonara in contemporary cuisine. "Carbonara is a laboratory for pasta," she stated. "It reflects creative freedom and new consumption styles. The love for pasta is universal because it is delicious, versatile, and always evolving." This sentiment resonates with many who see Carbonara as more than just a meal; it embodies Italian culture and tradition.
Throughout the years, Carbonara has seen its fair share of interpretations, leading to debates between purists and innovators. While traditionalists cling to the original recipe, which strictly includes guanciale and pecorino, others experiment with variations that incorporate pancetta, vegetables, or even seafood. There are reportedly around 400 versions of Carbonara worldwide, demonstrating its global appeal and adaptability.
This year’s Carbonara Day is not just about celebrating a dish; it is about embracing a culinary heritage that has evolved over decades. The event has reached a potential audience of 1.7 billion people in six years, making it a significant occasion for food influencers, media, chefs, and enthusiasts alike.
As the day approaches, Italian restaurants and homes alike will prepare to share their Carbonara creations. The joy of cooking and sharing this beloved dish brings people together, transcending borders and cultures. Whether enjoyed in a traditional setting or with a modern twist, Carbonara remains a cherished symbol of Italian gastronomy.
In the spirit of Carbonara Day, pasta lovers worldwide are encouraged to join the celebration by sharing their own Carbonara experiences and recipes. With the theme #FormatoCarbonara, the event invites everyone to explore which pasta shape best suits their Carbonara, fostering a sense of community and shared passion for this iconic dish.
