Antipasto

Antipasto all'italiana - Italian antipasto served in a restaurant

A gourmet antipasto platter with smoked salmon, smoked chicken (underneath), roast beef, pate, cabana sausage, brie-style cheese, cheddar-style goats milk cheese, Jensen's red washed rind cheese, olives, tapenade, rocket pesto (behind the dish), and tomato chutney.

Antipasto (plural antipasti), means "before the meal" and is the traditional first course of a formal Italian meal. Traditional antipasto includes cured meats, olives, roasted garlic, peperoncini, mushrooms, anchovies, artichoke hearts, various cheeses (such as provolone or mozzarella). The antipasto is usually topped off with olive oil.

Many compare antipasto to hors d'oeuvre, but antipasto is served at the table and signifies the official beginning of the Italian meal. It may also be referred to as a starter, or an entrée.

See also

• Tapas