If you're familiar with Roman food culture, you likely know the phrase giovedi gnocchi, or gnocchi Thursday. 
The custom of gnocchi Thursday became part of the post-war gastronomic culture when supplies were still scarce and people aimed to feed the whole family as substantially as possible while spending as little as possible. The original gnocchi recipe called for water, flour, a few eggs, and lots of potatoes. Also, since most people had physically strenuous jobs, refueling on a dish as filling as gnocchi was especially gratifying.