Green, White, and Red Like the Italian Flag. Discover the essence of Apulian food through its three symbolic colors

Puglia is not just crystal-clear sea, charming villages, and ancient traditions. It’s also a land of authentic flavors, deeply rooted in the territory and expressed through three symbolic colors: green, white, and red. These colors, reminiscent of the Italian flag, capture the spirit of Apulian cuisine and become the true stars on the table for guests who stay at our hospitality property.

Green: The Gold of Puglia, from Extra Virgin Olive Oil to Seasonal Vegetables

Green stands for the very heart of Apulian cooking: extra virgin olive oil. Extracted from ancient olive trees and cultivated with care, it’s loved around the world for its rich, unmistakable flavor. Green also represents the abundance of fresh vegetables—chicory, turnip tops, zucchini, eggplants, and peppers—grown thanks to the region’s mild climate and fertile soil. These ingredients form the basis of countless traditional Apulian dishes, simple yet full of taste and tradition.

White: Homemade Pasta, Cheese, and Bread Like in the Old Days

White symbolizes the soul of Apulian food. It’s the color of homemade pasta, such as orecchiette, cavatelli, strascinati, and troccoli, all made with just semolina flour and water. It’s also the color of cheese and dairy products: burrata, stracciatella, caciocavallo, scamorza, cacio ricotta, and the famous Pallone di Gravina—a traditional semi-hard spun cheese.

And let’s not forget the iconic Altamura bread, a true symbol of local baking: wood-fired, with a crunchy crust and a soft, flavorful interior, it’s a must-try for any food lover.

Red: Unique Cured Meats and Bold Local Wines

Red brings to mind the intense flavors of Apulian cured meats, such as the famous Capocollo of Martina Franca, soppressata, pancetta, and dry-aged sausages. Each bite tells the story of a rich culinary tradition.

Red is also the color of Apulian wines, known for their strong character and deep roots. Standout names include Primitivo di Manduria, Nero di Troia, and Negroamaro—DOC and IGT wines that perfectly embody the local identity and pair beautifully with regional dishes.