by Kim Abbott
Italian food is some of the most delicious cuisines in the entire world. And even before the main course, most Italians like to have something to whet their appetite: an amazing appetizer. The best Italian appetizers can be easily shared with everyone at the table and are tasty enough to please all palates. In short, Italy simply does appetizers right. From zesty calamari to fan-favorite antipasto, keep reading to learn the 5 most popular Italian appetizers — and be sure to try one (or more) today!
Bruschetta
This unique appetizer looks as good as it tastes. Once called “the original garlic bread,” bruschetta is made of grilled ciabatta bread. In fact, In fact, the word “bruschetta” is derived from the Italian word “bruscare,” which means “to roast over coals.” The grilled bread is then topped with olive oil and salt. Individual toppings may vary, but ours includes chopped tomato, onions, basil, garlic and extra virgin olive oil.
Calamari
Calamari is the culinary name for squid (but doesn’t “calamari” sound much better?!). The squid meat is firm and white with a mild, sweet flavor. The body of the squid is the prime section of edible meat, although the tentacles are edible as well. Calamari can be served in flat pieces or in rings. There are many ways to prepare and cook calamari. Typically, every country has its own way! Ours is sauteed or fried with black garlic, red pepper, and pepperoncini puree.
Shrimp Scampi
Love shrimp? Then you’ll absolutely love shrimp scampi, which is shrimp that’s been sauteed with garlic in butter and olive oil and then splashed with white wine. Our version includes jumbo shrimp that we saute in garlic, butter, and white wine — and then serve fresh with crostini. The fresh flavors of shrimp scampi will make your taste buds sing.
Beef Carpaccio
This popular appetizer is made up of raw beef, thinly sliced or pounded thin. A great beef carpaccio appetizer is packed with flavor and will practically melt in your mouth. Our version is then topped with capers and shaved with Parmigiano, before being served with lemon and aioli sauce. And of course, we only use the freshest, highest-quality beef fillet, making it an absolutely pleasing gourmet appetizer.
Antipasto
Perhaps the most popular Italian appetizer, antipasto is a dish made up of a variety of different Italian favorites. Even throughout different regions of Italy, an antipasto appetizer contains different kinds of meats, cheeses, and vegetables. Our version is made up of a divine variety of Italian meats and cheese, olives, and grilled vegetables.
Is your mouth watering yet? To try any of these fantastic Italian appetizers today (and feel like a true Italian for a little while), stop in to L’Amore Italian Restaurant. We can’t wait to see you!
To taste genuine Italian cuisine without flying to Italy, stop into L’amore Italian Restaurant. We promise it’ll be delicioso!
