List of the 20 typical Neapolitan dishes

1. Pizza Margherita: Originating in Naples, this iconic dish consists of a thin, crispy crust topped with a simple combination of tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil leaves.

2. Spaghetti alle Vongole: A classic pasta dish featuring spaghetti tossed with clams, garlic, olive oil, and parsley. It perfectly showcases the region’s abundance of fresh seafood.

3. Lasagna Napoletana: This baked pasta dish is made with alternating layers of flat pasta sheets, ragu sauce, mozzarella, ricotta, and grated Parmesan cheese.

4. Ragu alla Napoletana: A slow-cooked meat sauce made with a combination of pork, beef, and sometimes veal, flavored with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and herbs.

5. Cannelloni: Large pasta tubes filled with a mixture of meat, cheese, and spinach, which are then baked in a rich tomato and béchamel sauce.

6. Caprese Salad: A simple but delicious salad made with juicy tomatoes, fresh buffalo mozzarella cheese, basil leaves, and drizzled with extra virgin olive oil.

7. Mozzarella in Carrozza: This popular street food consists of a sandwich made with slices of mozzarella cheese, breaded and deep-fried until golden brown.

8. Frittata di Spaghetti: Leftover spaghetti is transformed into a tasty frittata by mixing it with beaten eggs, grated cheese, and fried until golden and crispy.

9. Parmigiana di Melanzane: Layers of fried eggplant slices, tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese are baked to create this hearty and flavorful dish.

10. Arancini: Deep-fried rice balls filled with meat, tomato sauce, and mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a quick snack or appetizer.

11. Pastiera Napoletana: A traditional Easter cake made with ricotta cheese, cooked wheat, candied fruit, and flavored with orange blossom water and vanilla.

12. Zeppole di San Giuseppe: These delightful pastry fritters are filled with sweet cream or jam and topped with a cherry. They are typically enjoyed on Saint Joseph’s Day.

13. Sfogliatelle: A shell-shaped pastry made of layered puff pastry filled with a sweet and creamy ricotta filling, often flavored with orange or lemon zest and dusted with powdered sugar.

14. Babà: This dessert is a small, yeast-risen cake soaked in rum syrup and often served with whipped cream or fruits.

15. Taralli: Crunchy, bite-sized biscuits made with flour, white wine, olive oil, and flavored with either fennel seeds or black pepper.

16. Mussels alla Luciana: Fresh mussels cooked in a flavorful tomato sauce infused with garlic, parsley, and white wine. Served with a side of crusty bread.

17. Pasta e Patate: A hearty soup made with pasta, potatoes, onions, tomatoes, and flavored with extra virgin olive oil and Parmesan cheese.

18. Polpette di Carne: Italian meatballs made from a mixture of ground beef, bread crumbs, eggs, garlic, and herbs. Served with tomato sauce and spaghetti.

19. Peperoni imbottiti: Roasted bell peppers stuffed with a savory mixture of bread crumbs, anchovies, capers, and parsley.

20. Zuppa Inglese: A traditional Italian dessert made with layers of sponge cake soaked in liqueur, pastry cream, and chocolate custard.

These 20 typical Neapolitan dishes exemplify the rich culinary heritage of the region and provide a delightful insight into the flavors and culture of Naples. Whether you’re a pizza lover or craving seafood, there is something on this list to satisfy every palate. So, next time you visit Naples, make sure to indulge in these mouthwatering creations and experience the true essence of Neapolitan cuisine.