Antipasto
The Greek word for appetizer is "μεζέ" (mezé). Mezés refers to small dishes served before the main meal, often enjoyed with drinks. These can include a variety of items such as olives, cheeses, and dips, reflecting the diverse flavors of Greek cuisine.
Antipasti translates as "before the pasta" and is a traditional Italian appetizer, which will normally not contain pasta. Traditional antipasto items include: cured meats, olives, roasted garlic, peperoncini, mushrooms, anchovies, artichoke hearts, cheeses, and marinated peperone (green bell peppers), often with an olive oil topping.
A trattoria appetizer typically refers to a small dish served before the main meal in an Italian eatery, often designed to stimulate the appetite. Common examples include bruschetta, which features toasted bread topped with tomatoes and basil, or antipasto platters with cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables. These appetizers highlight fresh, simple ingredients and reflect regional flavors, setting the stage for a delightful dining experience.
Another name for cooked cold meats is "charcuterie." This term typically refers to a variety of prepared meats, including cured, smoked, and cooked meats, often served on a platter. Charcuterie can include items like ham, salami, pâté, and sausages, and is commonly enjoyed with cheeses, breads, and accompaniments.
Pastelitos are a type of pastry common in Latin American and Caribbean cuisine, particularly in countries like Cuba, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic. They are typically made from a thin dough filled with a variety of ingredients such as meats, cheeses, or vegetables, and then fried or baked until golden brown. Often served as a snack or appetizer, pastelitos are known for their flaky texture and rich flavors. They can vary in size and filling, making them a versatile and popular dish.
Antipasto originates from Italy and traditionally refers to the first course of a meal, typically served before the main dishes. The term "antipasto" translates to "before the meal," and it often includes a variety of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and vegetables. This practice dates back to ancient Roman times, evolving over the centuries to reflect regional ingredients and culinary traditions across Italy. Today, antipasto is enjoyed worldwide, often served at gatherings and celebrations.
Yes, olives are typically salty due to the brine or saltwater solution they are often preserved in.
A submarine sandwich, also known as a sub, grinder, hero, hoagie, Italian sandwich is a sandwich that consists of an oblong roll, often of Italian, Spanish or French bread and filled with various meats, cheeses, vegetables, seasonings, and sauces.
A popular type of open-faced sandwich served as an appetizer is the bruschetta. It typically consists of grilled bread topped with a mixture of diced tomatoes, garlic, basil, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. This flavorful combination is often enjoyed as a light starter in Italian cuisine. Other variations may include toppings like mushrooms, cheese, or cured meats.
Yes. Meats are mostly protein - often with some fat as well.
Yes Delicatessens often sell their meats by weight as cold cuts, and prepare party trays.
Pitted olives are olives that have had their pits removed, making them easier to eat and use in recipes. De-pitted olives, while often used interchangeably with pitted olives, can sometimes refer to olives that have been processed in a way that may alter their texture or flavor. Essentially, both terms indicate that the olives are free of pits, but "de-pitted" may imply a more processed product. Always check packaging for specific processing details when selecting olives.