Spaghetti and Meatballs

Contrary to popular belief, spaghetti and meatballs is not an Italian dish, and if one travels to Italy, it will appear on some menus simply to satisfy the appetites of some American tourists. Consisting of spaghetti combined with tomato sauce and ground beef meatballs, the dish was originally invented by Italian immigrants who came to America in the 19th century.

Since canned tomatoes were among the only items available in stores, home cooks used to prepare a rich marinara sauce with garlic, oil, and tomatoes. Spaghetti were also one of the only Italian ingredients available in stores, so the thin, long pasta also became more popular in the homes of newly arrived immigrants.

Combined with flavorful, big meatballs, this hearty meal was created as one of the true symbols of Italian-American cuisine, although the dish is not Italian in origin.