Melrose peppers are unique to Chicago and were brought here in 1903 by Joseph and Lucia Napoletano from Nocera Inferiore, a small town outside of Naples, Italy. The Napoletano’s brought a handful of the seeds with them to America and found success growing them in their garden in the small suburb of Melrose Park. They are a staple during the late summer months for Chicago Italians! Though it’s uncommon to find these peppers in stores anywhere else, their seeds can be purchased online here. You can sub Melrose peppers for banana peppers or other sweet peppers to recreate this recipe. This recipe feeds 2-4 people.