Italian appetizers, or “antipasti,” are a key part of Italian cuisine, designed to stimulate the appetite before the main meal. Popular options include bruschetta, which consists of toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil, and caprese salad, featuring ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar. Another favorite is prosciutto e melone, a simple but delicious pairing of thinly sliced cured ham and sweet melon. Antipasti platters often feature a variety of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables. These appetizers are typically served with bread and paired with wine to enhance the dining experience.

15. Mozzarella Salad With Balsamic Tomatoes

This fresh mozzarella salad, inspired by bruschetta, features balsamic tomatoes and basil, making it both gorgeous and delicious. It’s versatile enough to be served as a single-serve meal for lunch or as a large platter for festive gatherings, BBQs, or picnics. The dish is gluten-free, low-carb, and vegetarian, making it a crowd-pleaser for various dietary preferences.

14. Antipasto Skewers

Antipasto skewers make the ideal snack or appetizer for summer gatherings, backyard BBQs, or holiday celebrations. Featuring all your favorite Italian ingredients, these colorful and tasty skewers include cherry tomatoes, olives, tortellini, salami, fresh mozzarella, roasted red peppers, and basil. They’re finished with a sweet honey balsamic drizzle, making them both visually appealing and delicious.

13. Stracciatella With Anchovies & Balsamic Peppers

This stracciatella with anchovies and balsamic peppers is a flavor-packed appetizer that combines creamy, salty, and tangy elements. Perfect for dinner parties or as a sophisticated snack, it offers a delightful twist on traditional Italian cuisine. I love how it elevates classic flavors into something truly special.

12. Farinata – Italian Chickpea Pancake Flatbread

Farinata might be a new dish for you, but it’s a delicious Italian street food worth discovering. This tasty recipe is made from chickpea flour (garbanzo bean flour) and infused with vibrant flavors of garlic and fresh rosemary. You can top this rustic, hearty flatbread with whatever you like, creating a savory and nutty chickpea pancake. It makes for a great appetizer, snack, or side dish alongside soups and salads. I’m sure you’ll love this Italian chickpea flatbread!

11. Arancini Recipe

This arancini recipe delivers perfectly crisp exteriors with a creamy, ooey-gooey, cheesy center. Served hot from the fryer with your favorite dipping sauce (marinara is a top choice), this Italian street food is a fantastic snack or appetizer that the whole family will love.

10. Keto Italian Garlic Breadsticks with Easy Dipping Sauce

These easy keto Italian garlic breadsticks make the perfect side dish! Pair them with a simple dipping sauce for an extra touch of fun.

9. Italian Antipasto Platter

This Italian antipasto platter is the ultimate appetizer. Simply grab a large plate or board and fill it with your favorite Italian meats, cheeses, and accompaniments. It’s ideal for a dinner party, whether during the holiday season or any time of year!

8. Italian Burrata Stuffed Tomato Appetizer

If you’re after bite-sized finger food, try making tomatoes filled with fresh burrata. This Italian appetizer requires just four ingredients, plus salt and pepper. It’s quick, simple, colorful, and appetizing without being too heavy. So if you’re craving Italian flavors, start your meal with this delightful burrata-stuffed tomato appetizer.

7. Artichoke Pesto with Spinach – 5-minute Recipe

6. Air Fryer Garlic Bread

Air Fryer garlic bread is golden brown and buttery, with crispy edges and loads of garlic flavor. This easy homemade recipe takes just 5-7 minutes per batch in the air fryer!

5. Italian Tomato Bruschetta Recipe

Italian Tomato Bruschetta, a posh and tasty Italian appetizer or starter for any occasion. It might look simple, but it’s heavenly flavourful and tasty. A great party food for any celebration like the New Year’s Eve party, Christmas party, birthdays or any family reunion. Healthy, low in calories, refreshing, and so tasty, these bruschetta starters can be tweaked to your own liking.

4. Burrata with Tomatoes and Pesto

If you’re looking for a fresh, tasty, and easy Italian appetizer, try burrata with tomatoes and pesto. This dish combines juicy heirloom tomatoes, tangy olives, basil leaves, and fresh pesto, served with crispy garlic toast. It’s a rustic, budget-friendly delight that’s perfect for parties or a light, flavorful meal.

3. Low FODMAP Calamari Salad

2. Caprese Crostini with Balsamic Glaze

Bite-sized caprese crostini are layered with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, creating an easy and elegant appetizer. Also known as caprese canapés, these delightful bites are simply delicious!

1. Chicken Mushroom Pizza Recipe

Pizza is undeniably one of the most popular foods worldwide, with countless variations offering unique taste experiences. Today, we’re featuring a Chicken Mushroom Pizza recipe.

15 Italian Appetizers