What Dishes to Try on the Amalfi Coast

Indulge in the culinary delights of the Amalfi Coast, where each dish offers a taste of the region’s vibrant culture and stunning coastline

The Amalfi Coast is a stunning stretch of coastline in southern Italy, known for its picturesque cliffs, charming villages, vibrant culture, rich history, and is home to a variety of delicious regional dishes that reflect the area’s Mediterranean climate and coastal location. From fresh seafood to vibrant vegetables and rich pastas, the Amalfi Coast offers a wide variety of mouthwatering dishes that will make any food lover's dream come true. Here are some must-try foods when visiting this iconic region.

1. Limoncello and Lemons

If you’re a fan of citrus, you’re in luck while visiting the Amalfi Coast. The Amalfi Coast is famous for its large, fragrant lemons, which are used to make the region’s signature drink, limoncello. This sweet, citrusy liqueur is typically enjoyed as a digestif after a meal. They are sipped, not taken as a shot. Don’t miss the chance to try a glass at a local trattoria or pick up a bottle to take home, which makes for the perfect souvenir or gift. You’ll find lemons are also used in various dishes, from lemon-infused pastas to desserts like delizia al limone.

2. Spaghetti alle Vongole (Spaghetti with Clams)

Given the coast’s proximity to the sea, fresh seafood is a staple of Amalfi Coast cuisine. Spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams) is a popular pasta dish, combining tender pasta with fresh, briny clams and garlic. Another must-try is pesce all'acqua pazza, which translates to fish in crazy water. This is a traditional and light seafood dish where fresh fish is simmered in a broth made from tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, parsley, and white wine.

3. Gnocchi alla Sorrentina

This hearty pasta dish originates from the town of Sorrento and is a comforting favorite along the coast. Gnocchi alla Sorrentina is made from soft potato gnocchi baked in a rich tomato sauce, topped with melted mozzarella and fresh basil

4. Caprese Salad

While insalata caprese can be found all over Italy, it’s especially special on the Amalfi Coast, where the tomatoes are ripe and bursting with flavor. Coming from Capri, the simple blend of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella di bufala, basil, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil makes for the perfect appetizer.

5. Frittura di Paranza

This popular dish consists of small, lightly battered, and fried fish, typically including anchovies, sardines, and squid. This crispy snack is the perfect dish to enjoy while sitting by the beach with a glass of wine.

6. Pasta alla Genovese

This dish is a classic of southern Italian cuisine, but be careful when ordering if you’re confusing it with a fresh green pesto genovese, but instead a pasta with slow-cooked onions and beef. The sauce is sweetened by the caramelized onions and creates a deep, savory flavor that’s perfect when paired with pasta. This dish is hearty and perfect for a cozy meal on the coast.

7. Scialatielli ai frutti di mare

This delicious seafood dish is made with a traditional Campanian pasta paired with shellfish, shrimp, and squid. You’ll find this pasta handmade in the best restaurants along the coast.

When visiting Italy it’s important to remember each region has its own, special cuisine. So when discovering the Amalfi Coast, indulge in these regional dishes which not only showcase the fresh, local ingredients of the Amalfi Coast but also reflect the deep connection between the land and the sea.

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