One of the finest handmade, locally produced salami are now available direct from the kitchens of Buona Tavola Restaurants.  For years, Owner and Chef Antonio Varia created his old world style salami in small amounts for the enjoyment of his restaurant customers.  Now he has created a new brand: Allesina Fine Cured Meats with four varieties of salami available at local stores and during the Templeton and San Luis Obispo Saturday Farmer’s Markets.  Perfect for picnics, wine and cheese pairings or just eating alone, these delicious salami are all hand crafted and do not contain hormones or nitrates. 

Every aspect of the creation of this fine cured meat is overseen by Chef Varia. Nearly all the ingredients are locally sourced.  The pork comes from hogs raised in ideal conditions, and is hormone and antibiotic free.  All the spices used come from The Spice Hunter, a San Luis Obispo company. The salami does not contain any MSG or artificial nitrates or nitrites, as they are preserved with naturally occurring elements in celery.  This commitment to local, high quality products insures the finest taste and excellence in every bite.

The name Allesina comes from Chef Varia’s mother – Maria Pia Allesina.   “I was very close to my mother and she passed away in 2010.  It was our tradition in Italy to make salami each winter for our family.  I thought using her name would be a nice way to honor her memory,” said Varia.

Four varieties of salami are currently offered, each with a unique taste.  Barolo is a traditional, robust salami featuring Barolo wine from Italy and the finest fresh spices. Cacciatorino salami features Chianti wine from Italy and juniper berries for a fresh flavor.   It has a lighter taste than the other varieties.  Finocchiona salami is bold and features Chianti wine, crushed fennel seeds and black pepper. Sopressa salami has a spicier kick with local Paso Robles zinfandel wine and cayenne pepper. Sopressa has a more robust taste and zesty flavor without being too hot or spicy.

Allesina salami will be featured at the North County Home, Garden and Gourmet Expo at the Paso Robles Event Center (formerly known as the Fairgrounds) on September 10 & 11 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.  Attendance is free.  Chef Varia and Allesina Salami will also participate in the Sunset Magazine Savor the Central Coast Main Event at the Santa Margarita Ranch on Saturday, Oct. 1.  Tickets are required.

Purchase Allesina Salami at many locations, including New Frontiers market in San Luis Obispo, Nature’s Touch Nursery & Market in Templeton, or the Templeton and San Luis Obispo Farmer’s Markets on Saturday mornings. For a full list of sale locations and restaurants that serve Allesina salami, please visit the web site at www.AllesinaSalami.com or call (805) 461-6800.