Italian Aperitivo: a cultural ritual.
Our Italian DNA makes us huge fans of the Italian Aperitivo.
The word “Aperitivo” comes from the Latin aperitivus, which means to open.
To open your stomach and stimulate the appetite before the meal.
It usually takes place between 6.30 pm and 9 pm and consists of eating some “stuzzichini” (small plates) to accompany alcoholic drinks such as wine, beer or cocktails.
But the real Italian Aperitivo is not only about food and drinks.
It is also about good company, nice chats and, if it is possible, a romantic sunset.
In this article, we will give you some useful tips on how to replicate the Italian Aperitivo at home.
Are you ready to take notes?
Food
Let’s start with the food part.
Appetizers should be provided as long as you are eating, but take care to not spoil your dinner. Usually, the Italian can Aperitivo includes:
- olives
- peanuts
- chips
- breadsticks
But if you want to raise the bar and amaze your friends with some extra treats typically Italian, you should prepare:
- a selection of Italian cold cuts, such as Parma ham, Mortadella, Salami.
- a selection of cheese, such as Pecorino, Grana Padano, Caciocavallo etc.
- a selection of bruschette: a slice of toasted bread, that can be prepared with many different ingredients such as tomatoes and basil (pure Italian style), Burrata and Mortadella di Bologna, Bresaola della Valtellina and goat cheese, Lardo di Colonnata and honey.
Just pick your favourite ingredients and get creative!
Drinks
What about drinks?
One of the most popular drinks, especially among the young, is the b, a bitter alcoholic aperitif that has an unmistakable flavor and color. Another famous cocktail is the Negroni, shaken with ice and strained into a cocktail glass.
Otherwise, you can go for Prosecco or wine. Whether you love white or red wine, dry or fruity, weak-bodied or light, the Italian wine list will please you.
But don’t forget to preserve it at the right temperature. We suggest you the Candy Wine cellar, which, in addition to maintain your bottles at the ideal temperature, has a world of smart features; via the hOn App you can find the best cooking inspirations and food pairings, and keep track of your wine timeline.
Let us not forget another great classic: the beer.
Craft or not, it is one of the favourite choices during summer. It becomes even tastier when paired with a sunset over the sea.
In the event that you (or your guests) prefer non-alcoholic drinks, you can opt for a lemonade, Aranciata, Cedrata, Italian Soda etc...The choice is very wide! Just remember to refresh them before serving!
Now you’re ready to replicate the real Italian Aperitivo, Cin Cin!
