Abruzzo is a region rich in enogastronomic treasures waiting to be discovered. Among its most famous culinary exports are the Arrosticini (sheep meat skewers), but the region also boasts cheeses, cured meats, extra virgin olive oil, legumes, pasta, and specific meat cuts. These include the Vitellone Bianco dell’Appennino Centrale (White Veal of the Central Appennins) listed among the IGP (i.e. PGI Protected Geographical Indication) products, along with a vast array of traditional sweets.

The region prides itself on having 149 specialties recognized as Traditional Agricultural Food Products (PAT), encompassing meats, offal, cheeses, plant products, liquors, and spirits.

Many of Abruzzo’s products hold DOP (i.e. PDO, Protected Designation of Origin) and IGP (PGI) designations, integral to the region’s traditional culinary recipes.

The DOP products of Abruzzo include the Oliva Ascolana del Piceno (Ascoli style olives), the Patata del Fucino (Fucino’s Potatoes), and the Zafferano dell’Aquila (Aquila’s saffron). Additionally, there are three DOPs for Extra Virgin Olive Oil: the Aprutino Pescarese DOP, widespread in the province of Pescara; the Colline Preatine DOP, typical of the hills of Chieti; and the Pretuziano delle colline Teramane DOP, produced in the province of Teramo. A key requirement for these olive oils is that they must consist of at least 75% Leccino, Frantoio, and Dritta native varieties, with the remaining 25% including other types like Tortiglione, Carboncella, and Castiglionese.

The IGP products from Abruzzo are the Agnello del Centro Italia (Lamb of Central Italy), the a.m. Vitellone Bianco dell’Appennino Centrale, and the Carota dell’Altopiano del Fucino (Fucino’s highland carrot).