An antipasto is like an Italian tapas, but for us, it’s the beginning of the meal, so expect pasta and other dishes afterwards!
Another way to enjoy tapas is during an aperitif, either at home or at a bar. Here, it's in a lighter form because it’s eaten 1-2 hours later and serves to tease the appetite, perhaps with a prosecco or an spritz!

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Antipasto is much more than just a dish; it is a ritual, an occasion for togetherness that captures the Italian "dolce vita." When it comes to food in Italy, antipasto is not only a taste experience, but also a true prelude to a meal that celebrates the art of living slowly and savoring every moment. This experience is often accompanied by a glass of white wine or, even better, a glass of Prosecco, a symbol of lightness and sophistication, or a robust red wine like Chianti, Amarone or Primitivo, ideal for pairing with meats and aged cheeses.

Antipasto: A ritual of togetherness

In Italy, antipasto is the warm welcome that opens the door to a long and enjoyable culinary experience. It is typically served before the main courses and can vary from region to region, but the essence remains the same: small portions of tasty food that whet the appetite and prepare the palate for the dishes to come.

Antipasto is enjoyed in a relaxed, social atmosphere. It is not unusual to see it accompanied by an aperitif, perhaps outdoors on a summer evening as the sun sets and the air fills with light conversation. In this context, a glass of wine becomes the perfect companion: a fresh Prosecco to highlight the lighter flavors, or a robust red wine like Chianti, Amarone or Primitivo, perfect for pairing with meats and aged cheeses.

The Elements of a Perfect Italian Antipasto

A perfect antipasto balances flavors, textures, and aromas and offers a diverse selection of high-quality products. Here are some essential elements you can include in your antipasto to create an authentic and delicious experience, just like you would in Italy.

1. Cheeses : The undisputed king of Italian cheeses, Parmigiano Reggiano , is a must-have in any antipasto. With its rich and complex flavor, it's perfect to enjoy thinly sliced, perhaps with a drizzle of Modena balsamic vinegar to enhance its sweet and umami notes. Add some creamy burrata or fresh mozzarella to your platter. Burrata, with its rich and creamy center, and mozzarella, with its soft and mild flavor, are perfect complements to the more robust Parmigiano Reggiano.

2. Charcuterie : No Italian antipasto would be complete without real Italian charcuterie. Salame, with its spicy and slightly sour flavor, and guanciale, more delicate and fatty, represent the essence of the Italian charcuterie tradition. Guanciale, especially with its mix of premium meat and fat, is a versatile and delicious ingredient. For a special antipasto, try gently warming guanciale in a pan: the heat will melt the fat, making it soft and irresistibly flavorful. This warm guanciale can be the perfect topping for bruschetta. Enhance your selection with some prosciutto crudo, known for its delicate and salty flavor, coppa (or capocollo, also from the neck) and mortadella.

3. Extra virgin olive oil : Olive oil is the true liquid gold of Italian cuisine. For antipasto, use a high-quality olive oil, which you serve with crusty bread, such as focaccia or bruschetta. This simple combination allows you to appreciate all the aromatic nuances of the oil and make every bite a sensory experience.

4. Additional Delicacies : To elevate your antipasto even further, consider including a variety of other Italian specialties, such as artichoke hearts in oil or caponata, tapenade for bread or bruschetta for added texture and flavor. These can provide a nice contrast to the rich flavors of the meats and cheeses.

Enjoying the dolce vita, even at home

Creating an Italian antipasto is a wonderful way to bring a little "dolce vita" into your daily routine. Take the time to savor each bite, perhaps accompanied by a nice glass of wine, and let the flavors transport you straight to an Italian piazza, where time seems to slow down and life is made to be enjoyed.

Discover authentic Italian products on our e-commerce

If you want to recreate this ritual at home, you will find on our e-commerce a selection of authentic Italian products, perfect for a masterful antipasto. From slices of Parmigiano Reggiano to meats such as salame and guanciale, to the inevitable extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar from Modena, to additional delights such as burrata, mozzarella, prosciutto crudo, coppa, mortadella and marinated vegetables, we have everything you need for a journey through the flavors of Italy.

Shop now and buon appetito!