The Neapolitan Food

Seafood pasta: Seafood pasta, or “pasta ai frutti di mare” in Italian, is a popular dish in Naples, given the city’s location on the Mediterranean coast. The dish typically features a mix of seafood, such as clams, mussels, shrimp, and squid, tossed with pasta and a light tomato-based sauce. The dish is often finished with a sprinkle of parsley and served with crusty bread.

Lasagna: Lasagna is a classic Italian dish that’s popular all over the world, and Naples is no exception. The dish consists of layers of wide pasta sheets, cheese, and a tomato-based meat sauce. In Naples, lasagna is often made with a creamy bechamel sauce and ricotta cheese, and sometimes includes other ingredients like mushrooms, spinach, or eggplant.

Pasta arancini: Pasta arancini, also known as “rice balls,” are a popular street food in Naples. The dish features leftover pasta, often mixed with tomato sauce and cheese, formed into balls and coated in breadcrumbs before being fried until crispy. The result is a savory, crunchy snack that’s perfect for eating on the go.

Pizza: No discussion of Neapolitan cuisine would be complete without mentioning pizza. Naples is widely considered to be the birthplace of pizza, and the city’s traditional pizza, the margherita, features a thin, crispy crust topped with tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil. Other popular toppings include mushrooms, olives, and cured meats like prosciutto or salami.

Sfogliatella (dessert): Sfogliatella is a type of Italian pastry that’s popular in Naples. The pastry features a flaky, shell-shaped exterior that’s filled with a sweet, creamy filling made from ricotta cheese, semolina, and candied citrus peel. There are two types of sfogliatella: the “riccia,” which has a flaky, layered exterior, and the “frolla,” which has a smooth, cookie-like exterior.

Affogato coffee: Affogato is a simple but delicious dessert that’s popular in Naples and beyond. The dish features a scoop of vanilla gelato or ice cream topped with a shot of espresso. The hot espresso melts the ice cream slightly, creating a creamy, delicious dessert that’s perfect for coffee lovers.

As for the history and preparation of these dishes, each one has its own unique story and techniques. For example, pizza has a long and fascinating history dating back to the ancient Greeks and Romans, while seafood pasta reflects Naples’ long history as a fishing port. If you’re interested in learning more about the history and preparation of these dishes, there are many resources available online and in print that can help deepen your understanding of Neapolitan cuisine.

Hope you enjoyed our trip!