Great for slicing, these salames are made carefully and aged perfectly in the old world, artisan tradition. It's also good to know that these salames are made naturally, meaning no nitrates or nitrites in the pork, and the casings are all natural.

You'll face a tough decision when you try to choose between these excellent varieties:

• Crespone -- chewy on the outside, smooth and velvety on the inside, this salame is rich and meaty with a light taste of cheese. $14.99 / lb


• Italian Dried Salame -- thick, stretchy and chewy, with the buttery taste of pork mixed with sharp and hot spices. $9.99 / lb



• Cacciatore -- salame prepared "hunter style." A diminutive salame at first sight, it more than compensates with its rich flavor and texture. $14.49 / lb



• Finocchiona -- deriving its name from the Italian word for "fennel," this Tuscan-style salame is redolent with the cool, herb-y taste of the spice it's named after. Finocchiona is made from ground pork shoulder and aged for 30 days for a velvety texture and mellow flavor. $14.99 / lb



• Calabrese Salame -- we couldn't believe how much flavor is packed into one salame! The hot and savory flavors of garlic, paprika and peppers will ignite your senses, but not overwhelm them. $10.99 / lb



• Felino -- originating in the Parma region of Italy and arguably the "king of salames." In fact, Felino is such an important part of the economy in that region that there is a statue of a pig dedicated to its creation. But you don't need to be royalty to enjoy felino. Its smooth texture and aroma can be enjoyed by everyone. $14.99 / lb