The Best Seafood Specialties from the Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast, renowned for its breathtaking views and charming villages, is also a culinary paradise, especially for seafood lovers. With its proximity to the Mediterranean Sea, the region offers an array of seafood specialties that are both fresh and delicious. Here are some of the best seafood dishes to try when visiting the Amalfi Coast.

1. Spaghetti alle Vongole
One of the hallmark dishes of the Amalfi Coast is Spaghetti alle Vongole, which translates to spaghetti with clams. This dish typically features fresh clams sautéed in garlic, olive oil, and white wine, served over al dente spaghetti. The simplicity and freshness of the ingredients make it a must-try for any seafood enthusiast.

2. Frittura di Pesce
A delightful seafood platter, Frittura di Pesce consists of a mixture of small fish, shrimp, and calamari, all lightly battered and fried to golden perfection. Served with a wedge of lemon, this dish is perfect for sharing and captures the essence of coastal dining, allowing you to enjoy the variety of flavors from the sea.

3. Sgombro alla Griglia
Grilled mackerel, or Sgombro alla Griglia, is another favorite on the Amalfi Coast. This dish features fresh mackerel grilled to perfection and often drizzled with a simple dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs. The smoky flavor from the grill combined with the fresh ingredients creates a mouthwatering experience.

4. Insalata di Mare
Seafood salad, or Insalata di Mare, is a delightful cold dish that includes a medley of mixed seafood, such as shrimp, octopus, and squid, all marinated in a zesty dressing. The refreshing flavors make it an ideal starter, especially during the warm summer months.

5. Linguine con Gamberi e Limone
Linguine con Gamberi e Limone combines succulent shrimp with pasta in a light lemon sauce, infused with garlic and parsley. The brightness of the lemon complements the sweetness of the shrimp, making it a popular choice among locals and tourists alike.

6. Pesce Spada alla Griglia
Grilled swordfish, known as Pesce Spada alla Griglia, is a staple in many Amalfi Coast restaurants. The fish is marinated and grilled, creating a flavorful and juicy dish that's served with seasonal vegetables or a fresh salad, encapsulating the coastal culinary experience.

7. Caprese di Mare
This modern twist on the classic Caprese salad includes fresh seafood such as shrimp or crab, combined with mozzarella and ripe tomatoes, drizzled with basil pesto. Caprese di Mare showcases the region’s bounty and offers a fresh, vibrant dish perfect for a light lunch.

8. Zuppa di pesce
A traditional fish soup known as Zuppa di pesce, is a heartwarming dish made with various fresh fish, shellfish, tomatoes, and herbs. Each region may have its own twist on this classic, but it typically showcases the freshest catches, simmered to create a flavorful and comforting broth.

Visiting the Amalfi Coast is a feast for the senses, and indulging in its seafood specialties is a quintessential part of the experience. Whether you’re dining in a quaint seaside trattoria or enjoying a meal with stunning ocean views, the seafood dishes of the Amalfi Coast are sure to leave a lasting impression.