Italian Appetizers

Appetizers are a huge part of Italian-American culture. It's not just about serving something before dinner; it's about having something to serve to anyone who walks in the door. Growing up, my dad would have food ready to offer anyone who walked in the door.

In our Italian-American family, there was always some kind of food ready to be served. Whether it's a Summer Farro Salad with Cannellini Beans, Simple Eggplant Caponata, Cast Iron Focaccia Bread, or another simple appetizer, we always have something easy to pull out when someone stops by.

And of course, there are appetizers for the family parties we'd never forget, like The Best Homemade Shrimp Cocktail or Italian Sausage Bread. Some of these recipes below are ones we'd have ready to take out at a moment's notice, while others are the appetizers that showed up at holidays, parties, and other family occasions! No matter the occasion, you'll find the appetizer you need below!