When it comes to iconic Italian dishes, few can rival the timeless appeal of lasagna. With its layers of pasta, rich meat sauce, and gooey cheese, lasagna embodies the essence of comfort food. There’s no wonder it’s one of the most popular items on Tommy’s Pizza and Subs’ dinner menu.

Have you ever wondered about the origins of lasagna, and why it’s such an enduring favorite loved the world over?

Lasagna’s Beginnings

The history of lasagna traces back centuries, with roots deeply embedded in Italian culinary heritage. Like many traditional dishes, the exact origins of lasagna are ambiguous. Many food historians believe the dish can be traced back to ancient Greece, where layered dishes similar to modern-day lasagna were enjoyed. Even if that’s true, it was in Italy where lasagna became a staple dish in regions like Emilia-Romagna and Campania.

One of the earliest references to lasagna in Italy dates back to the 14th century, where it was mentioned in a cookbook attributed to Martino da Como, a renowned Italian chef of the time. This early version of lasagna was quite different from the dish we know today. It featured layers of pasta dough, cheese, and spices, but notably lacked tomatoes! Tomatoes had yet to be introduced to Europe from the New World.

Here Come the Tomatoes!

The introduction of tomatoes to Italy in the 16th century revolutionized Italian cuisine, giving birth to beloved dishes like spaghetti alla marinara and, of course, lasagna al forno (Italian beef lasagna). With the addition of tomato sauce, lasagna evolved into the hearty, flavorful dish that we recognize today.

Fast forward to the present day, and lasagna remains a cornerstone of Italian cuisine, beloved by people around the world. Its enduring popularity can be attributed to its versatility, comforting flavors, and ability to bring people together around the dinner table.

For people unfamiliar with traditional dishes like pizza and spaghetti, lasagna can also serve as a gateway meal. Its familiar flavors and hearty appeal make it an accessible option for diners of all ages and palates.

Coming to America

Italian immigrants in the late 19th and early 20th centuries brought their culinary traditions with them when they arrived in America. Naturally, this included lasagna. However, the lasagna enjoyed by early Italian immigrants was a bit different from the versions many of us enjoy today.

Many immigrants faced challenges in finding familiar ingredients in America, so they adapted their recipes to incorporate what was locally available. For example, instead of mozzarella, ricotta, or parmesan cheese, they experimented with cheeses such as cheddar, provolone, or Monterey Jack. With access to a wider variety of vegetables than they enjoyed in Italy, some added bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini. As for meats, in addition to ground beef, some added pork and ground chicken or turkey.

For some, these “experiments” stuck, while for others, they stuck close to their forebears original take on the dish.

Lasagna at Tommy’s Pizza and Subs

While Lasagna may have evolved from its Italian roots, the “classical” essence of lasagna—layers of pasta, sauce, and cheese—continues to captivate taste buds.

For many of our customers, lasagna holds a special place in their hearts. It evokes memories of family gatherings and comforting home-cooked meals. It does for us, too. That’s why we take a traditional approach to the dish, using only the freshest, time-tested ingredients. When you think of lasagna from Tommy’s Pizza and Subs, we want you to think of home.

We find that lasagna is a satisfying option for times when we’re hungry for a hearty, filling dining experience beyond what a slice of pizza or a sub can offer. Pair it with a fresh salad and a cold beverage and you’ve got a full meal.

So, the next time you visit Tommy’s Pizza and Subs, we invite you to savor a slice of lasagna. Buon appetito!

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