The Flavours of Amalfi Coast, abundant in fish, seafood, and sun-ripened fruits and vegetables, offers a delightful experience for all palates. Even meat enthusiasts and cheese connoisseurs find satisfaction in the protein-packed delicacies from the Lattari mountains.
These golden fruits star in renowned treats like limoncello and delizie al limone, as well as lesser-known delights like ricotta-filled ravioli and mozzarella smoked between lemon leaves. Besides gracing plates and glasses, lemons feature prominently in local products, from perfumes and face creams to postcards and souvenirs.
Two distinct Igp lemon varieties, Ovale di Sorrento and Sfusato Costa di Amalfi, flourish on terraces supported by chestnut wood poles. Traditional “pagliarelle” shield the fruits from the elements and delay ripening. Although lemons have ancient roots in the region, their cultivation intensified under Arab rule when the fruit’s Vitamin C-rich properties were discovered.
For those seeking culinary treasures, artisan companies like Valle dei Mulini and Fratelli Cobalto craft exquisite limoncello. Visitors can explore lemon groves and a museum showcasing antique farming equipment at Valle dei Mulini. Fratelli Cobalto, located in Antichi Sapori d’Amalfi, offers another exceptional limoncello alongside the famous “Concerto” liqueur, following an ancient recipe by Cappuccini monks.
The Amalfi Coast’s seafood cuisine stands out globally. Shrimps, redfish, pezzogne, bream, sea urchins, octopus, bluefish, and mollusks take center stage in unforgettable dishes like “scialatielli ai frutti di mare.” Cetara, a fishing village, produces the extraordinary Colatura di Alici from humble anchovies, creating a sea-infused liquid that transforms pasta dishes with just a few drops.
In the mountainous region of Monte Lattari, family-run dairies in Agerola and Tramonti continue the cheese-making tradition. Fresh ricotta, fiordilatte, and provola cheeses carry the scent of local herbs, contributing to dishes like UNESCO-recognized “ndunderi.” Cheese enthusiasts can savor Provolone del Monaco, a unique variety with a coat-shaped form.
Historic dairies in Tramonti and Amalfi offer a range of dairy delights, including smoked provolone and ricotta with herbs. The Amalfi Coast’s skilled pastry chefs create a myriad of cake and dessert recipes. Pansa in Amalfi and La Zagara in Positano are renowned for their delectable offerings, from Amalfi biscuits to chocolate-covered citrus fruits and Torta Zagara, a sinful cake made with chocolate and candied orange.
This culinary exploration of the Amalfi Coast, one cannot help but appreciate the harmonious blend of flavors that define this beautiful region. From the iconic lemons that adorn landscapes to the exquisite seafood, cheeses from the Lattari mountains, and the delectable pastries crafted by skilled hands, the Amalfi Coast truly captivates the senses.
