Most Americans confuse antipasti with hors d’oeuvres. Hors d’oeuvres refers to fancy little edible works of art that are to be consumed with a drink in your hand, and they are generally served while the guests stand and talk. No so with antipasti.

Antipasti is the first course. The name means “before the meal,” that is, before the main courses. This first course no light little bit of nibbly but rather a serious display of fine food items that help you prepare for the rest of the meal. Antipasti are always eaten while seated, though you may choose from a buffet of several items. I have seen antipasti tables in Italy that have as many as thirty items for the opening offering.

Such an antipasti display could make a meal for most of use, but the Italians are only getting started. The meal has a purpose of its own, and the purpose is not simply to feed the body. It is an event that invited communication, affection, gossip, discussion, and, of course, good food and wine. We Americans tend to plan meals that are efficient in terms of our use of time, but the Italians plan a meal that will take hours to consume, and one is expected to be content in many ways before the meal is finished.

I would like to think that we are doing a better job in this country in terms of feeding all of the human hungers, and not just the tummy. The antipasti course can be a great beginning for a wonderful and fulfilling event. Choose any of the following recipes and spread them out for your guests. They will realize that you really do value their company. Further, I hope your family grows to expect “the plate before the meal.