Salsiccia e Friarielli is a beloved dish from Naples that brings together sausage and friarielli, a type of bitter broccoli rabe. This hearty, rustic combination is a staple of Campanian cuisine, celebrated for its bold, earthy flavors and simplicity. Whether served as a main dish, stuffed in a sandwich, or folded into pizza, Salsiccia e Friarielli is a true taste of southern Italy.

What Are Friarielli?

Friarielli, also known as broccoli rabe or cime di rapa, are a leafy green vegetable with a slightly bitter flavor. Common in Campania, they are a key ingredient in Neapolitan cooking. Often sautéed with garlic, olive oil, and chili peppers, friarielli have a tender texture and a distinct, peppery taste that pairs beautifully with the rich, savory flavor of Italian sausage.

The History of Salsiccia e Friarielli

The origins of Salsiccia e Friarielli are rooted in Neapolitan street food and home cooking. This dish reflects the resourcefulness of southern Italian cuisine, where humble, locally sourced ingredients are transformed into something delicious and satisfying.

Traditionally, cooks make Neapolitan sausages with a coarse grind of pork, flavor them with fennel seeds, and season them with salt, pepper, and sometimes chili flakes. Pairing these robust sausages with the bitterness of friarielli creates a perfect balance of flavors that generations have enjoyed.

How Salsiccia e Friarielli Is Made

Making this dish is simple yet flavorful. Here’s how:

Prepare the Friarielli:

Clean the friarielli by trimming the tough stems.

Sauté garlic and chili flakes in olive oil, then add the friarielli.

Cook until tender, seasoning with salt to taste.

Cook the Sausage:

Grill, fry, or roast the sausages until browned and fully cooked.

Combine:

Serve the sausages alongside the friarielli, or mix them together for a more integrated dish.

Ways to Enjoy This Dish

Salsiccia e Friarielli can be enjoyed in various ways:

As a Main Dish: Serve it with crusty bread or roasted potatoes for a hearty meal.

In a Sandwich: Stuff the mixture into a soft panino for a classic Neapolitan street food experience.

On Pizza: Use it as a topping for pizza bianca, adding mozzarella or provolone for extra richness.

Pairing Salsiccia e Friarielli

To elevate your meal, pair the dish with:

Wine: Opt for a bold red wine like Aglianico or Taurasi to complement the dish’s flavors.

Beer: A light, crisp lager balances the richness of the sausage and the bitterness of the greens.

Where to Find Ingredients

Recreate this classic dish at home with authentic Italian sausages and fresh friarielli. If friarielli isn’t available locally, broccoli rabe makes an excellent substitute. Find high-quality ingredients like Italian olive oil and seasonings at Bottega Italiana.

A Taste of Naples

Salsiccia e Friarielli is more than just a dish—it’s a celebration of Naples’ vibrant food culture and love for bold, uncomplicated flavors. Whether you enjoy it at home or in the heart of Campania, this classic pairing is sure to transport you to southern Italy with every bite.

Have you tried this dish? Share your favorite variations or tips in the comments below!