It’s simple food, served with a hearty dose of relaxed, sun-drenched joy. Whether you’re hosting a lively crowd or tucking into a leisurely lunch for two, here’s how to bring the spirit of Italy to your table.
Mortadella, Pistachio and Burrata Crostini
Inside The Rustic Kitchen
We will forever adore the classic tomato bruschetta,, but how’s this for a toasty twist? Mortadella, with its slivered flecks of pistachio, is complemented to perfection by the crunch of crostini, the creaminess of burrata, and the intense flavour of yet more pistachio – this time whizzed into a pesto. Easy as pie, and more delicious. Get the recipe.
Crunchy Mozzarella-Stuffed Olives
Delicious
If you’re of the persuasion that olives fall under the category of lilies and gilding, then you clearly haven’t tried the Le Marche region’s traditional mozzarella-stuffed take. Sure, they’re a tiny bit fiddly – but if you do go to the chilli flaked and panko breadcrumbed effort, they’re more than worth it, whether as part of an antipasti spread, or just to nibble over a glass of wine. Get the recipe.
Parma Ham Parcels With Asparagus And Peas
Great Italian Chefs
‘I love Emilia-Romagna in the springtime’… isn’t that how the song goes? Well, not quite, but we’d argue that this region – known as especially ‘foodie’ even in the context of the culinary treasure trove that is Italy – is every bit as lovely as gay Paris. To prove it, these parcels of joy showcase the very best of its in-season ingredients: asparagus, peas, ricotta, pecorino and soft cheese are all packaged into a slice of meltingly good Parma Ham. It also scores on the easy-to-eat-in-a-single-bite scale – surely the gold standard in the antipasti stakes. Get the recipe.
Involtini
Jamie Oliver
The art of the perfect antipasto is all about the balance of flavour and texture. These involtini – Italian for ‘little bundles’ – are the dreamiest salty-yet-soft bite of aubergine, Parma ham and mozzarella. Guaranteed to vanish in seconds. Get the recipe.
Sauteed Prawns With Garlic And Chilli
Gino D’Acampo
The secret of rustling up a table groaning with goodies is to ensure that it includes dishes that are quick and easy – and yet give plenty of bang for their buck. That is precisely the case for Gino D’Acampo’s beautiful sizzling prawns, which are a staple along the Adriatic coast. Coastal bliss – whether you’re looking out across twinkling seas or in need of a little help to transport you there in a bite. Get the recipe.
