The Art of Antipasti

  In Italy, Antipasti translates as "before the meal. "  It's a way to whet the appetite for the food that will follow:  pasta, primi piatti, insalata, dolci.  {pasta, main course, salad and dessert}.

Nowadays, antipasti is not just an appetizer. It has become a way we eat.


 {The Art of Antipasti}


It's all about big, bold flavors and small bites.  Different textures. Different tastes. Wines are often paired with each dish to enhance the eating experience.

Antipasti are meant to be shared by everyone at the table.  It's festive and a great way to gather a small group for a casual social gathering, or entertain with cocktails for a crowd.

Traditionally, antipasti includes a selection of salumi meats, artisan cheeses and a variety of olives.  We've created a list of our favorites. We call it  Ten Tips for Easy Entertaining.  With a few easy additions, you can turn it into a meal!

This week we perfected our favorite recipes for holiday entertaining with our enthusiastic {and experienced!} class at Whole Foods Salud! cooking school.

 From individual small bites to beautiful platter presentations, every recipe was elegant enough for entertaining and ready to dive in family- style.

And dive-in we did!  

Here's what was on the menu: 

-  Warm Artichoke Dip

-  Cranberry Brie wrapped in puff pastry
-  Pane Insalata with Arugula and Olive Pesto
-  Roasted Pumpkin Risotto with Brown butter Fried Sage 
-  Chocolate Orange Walnut Tartlets
-  Preserved Lemon Poundcake with lemon cream

For more easy entertaining recipe ideas + inspiration, be sure to sign up for our here.

If you are interested in upcoming cooking classes at Whole Foods Salud! cooking schools and events at the retail store, be sure to sign up on Facebook and Twitter.












Buon appetito! copyright 2010 Alisa Barry