Italy By Food Enthusiasts · 6 min read

National Dish Italy: Arrosticini Abruzzesi (Recipe)

Grilled lamb skewers arrosticini abruzzesi on a wooden board with rosemary

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Say hello to Arrosticini Abruzzesi, the smoky lamb skewers that turn any barbecue into a proper Italian feast. Born in the rugged hills of Abruzzo and once the staple of mountain shepherds, these tender little skewers are all about good lamb, a glug of olive oil and the kiss of an open flame. Simple, rustic and irresistibly moreish, they bring the warmth of the Italian countryside straight to your garden grill.

About Arrosticini Abruzzesi

Arrosticini Abruzzesi are far more than a quick barbecue snack; they are a genuine traditional dish from Abruzzo, one of Italy’s most scenic regions. These delicate lamb skewers are made from good-quality lamb and are famed for their distinctive flavour and unfussy, rustic preparation. Originally cooked by the region’s shepherds, they capture the simple yet utterly delicious spirit of Italian cuisine. Grilling over an open fire is what keeps the meat so juicy and full of aroma.

Ingredients (serves 1–2)

300 g lamb (shoulder or rump, for example)
2–3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
A few sprigs of fresh rosemary
Wooden skewers (at least 6–8)

Shopping for the ingredients

The ingredients for arrosticini are fairly easy to track down. Fresh lamb is best bought from a local butcher or a good-quality supermarket, and it pays to choose well-marbled meat for the finest flavour. The remaining ingredients — olive oil, salt and pepper — are usually already in the cupboard, so you really only need to focus on sourcing the lamb. A trip to a butcher who knows their meat is the kind of detail that lifts honest Italian cuisine above the ordinary.

Preparing the dish

Before you fire up the grill, you need to prepare the ingredients. Cut the lamb into even pieces that will thread neatly onto the skewers. Then marinate the meat with olive oil, salt, pepper and fresh rosemary. This simple marinade keeps the lamb tender and aromatic as it grills and gives the arrosticini their signature taste. A tidy work surface makes the threading far quicker and more relaxed.

Step-by-step instructions

Cut the lamb into small cubes and place them in a bowl.
Add olive oil, salt, pepper and rosemary, then mix well so the meat is evenly marinated.
Soak the wooden skewers in water to stop them burning on the grill.
Thread the marinated lamb onto the soaked skewers.
Bring the grill up to a high heat and cook the skewers for about 10 to 15 minutes, turning them regularly.
The arrosticini are ready when nicely browned and cooked through. Serve warm and enjoy!

Gluten-free / lactose-free version

Arrosticini Abruzzesi are naturally gluten-free and lactose-free, as they consist of nothing more than lamb and seasoning. No gluten- or lactose-containing extras are needed, which makes them a brilliant choice for anyone with a food intolerance. You can tweak the marinade however you like to vary the flavour without affecting its gluten-free or lactose-free credentials.

Tips for vegans and vegetarians

There are some lovely creative alternatives to the traditional arrosticini for vegans and vegetarians. Thread vegetables such as courgette, peppers and mushrooms onto similar skewers and marinate them in the same way. A mix of tofu or seitan with vegetables makes a tasty, wholesome way to share in the grilling. Use the same marinade of olive oil, herbs and spices to build a rich, satisfying flavour — much like our Italian-Style Grilled Vegetables.

More tips and tricks

A few tips and tricks will sharpen up your arrosticini. Make sure the grill is properly preheated so the skewers form a good crust quickly. Pop the lid on to hold the heat and shorten the cooking time. Experiment with different spices and marinades to put your own twist on the classic, and keep the skewers close together over the coals, just as you would for Porcini alla Griglia.

Adapting the recipe to your taste

The flexibility of arrosticini means you can easily adapt the recipe to suit yourself. Swap in other meats such as beef or poultry if you fancy a change of flavour, much as you might for a hearty Spezzatino d’Agnello. A pinch of chilli or other warming spices adds a spicy kick, while a touch of mustard or honey in the marinade gives you a slightly sweeter result.

Ingredient substitutions

If you do not have every ingredient to hand, there are plenty of substitutions to fall back on. Chicken or turkey breast work just as well in place of lamb and taste every bit as good. You can also try different oils in the marinade — avocado oil or hazelnut oil, for instance — to coax out a different flavour. Just be sure to balance the seasoning accordingly so the meat releases its full aroma.

Drink pairing ideas

Plenty of drinks pair beautifully with Arrosticini Abruzzesi and complement their hearty flavour. A well-chilled Chianti or a fruity Primitivo sits perfectly alongside the lamb. Alternatively, offer a refreshing lemon water or a house blend of sparkling water and fresh herbs for something lighter. At a barbecue, crowd-pleasing cocktails such as an Aperol Spritz never go amiss.

Serving and presentation ideas

The presentation of your arrosticini can lift the whole occasion. Serve the skewers on a rustic wooden board scattered with fresh herbs. Set out a few dips in little bowls — a tangy yoghurt dip or a herb sauce — to add extra layers of flavour. A side of grilled vegetables or a crisp salad rounds the dish off beautifully and works well next to other grilled favourites such as Spiedini.

A bit of history

The story of Arrosticini Abruzzesi reaches deep into the rural culture of Abruzzo. Originally cooked by shepherds, they relied on the simple ingredients they could find in the surrounding countryside. Over time the dish became a symbol of Abruzzese hospitality and is now loved across Italy and beyond. At festivals and barbecue evenings it is one of the must-have dishes that brings everyone together — much like a celebratory Timballo Abruzzese.

More recipe ideas

Summary: Arrosticini Abruzzesi

Arrosticini Abruzzesi offer a wonderful grilling experience, with deep flavours and a wonderfully straightforward method. With good-quality ingredients and a touch of Italian tradition, you can put together a standout dish for your next barbecue. Whether you keep things classic or play with creative variations, the arrosticini are always a hit. Let Italian cuisine inspire you and savour the good company that gathers around the grill!