When was Pasta first used?

While the exact date pasta was first used is unknown, we can say it was likely first consumed in the Middle East, around the 4th century BC.

Here's a breakdown of the evidence:

* Ancient origins: The earliest documented evidence of pasta-like noodles comes from archaeological finds in China, dating back to 2500 BC. However, these early noodles were made from a different kind of dough and weren't prepared in the same way as modern pasta.

* Arab influence: By the 4th century BC, Arabs were known to be making a type of pasta called "triya," which was a form of dried noodles. This practice is believed to have spread to Sicily, then under Arab rule, which is why some historians believe Sicily to be the birthplace of pasta.

* 13th Century evidence: The first clear mention of pasta in Italy comes from a cookbook written by the Italian monk, Fra Dolcino, in 1316.

* 16th Century development: Pasta making became more widespread in Italy during the 16th century, likely because of the development of new pasta-making techniques.

It's important to remember that the exact origins of pasta are still debated among historians. However, it is generally accepted that pasta was likely first consumed in the Middle East, and its popularity spread throughout the Mediterranean region, eventually reaching Italy, where it became a staple food.