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    Home » Appetizers

    63 Italian Appetizer Recipes

    Published: Oct 20, 2022 · Modified: Jan 22, 2023 by Mamma C · This post may contain affiliate links

    pinnable image for Italian appetizers

    Looking for Italian appetizers? Here's a mouthwatering collection of Italian starters, including antipasto, vegetarian, meat and seafood options. Get the recipes you need for the holidays or any festive gathering!

    tomato bruschetta with balsamic glaze on white platter with basil

    If you need ideas for Italian appetizers, you've come to the right place! I've assembled a delizioso collection of starters for Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, New Year's Eve or any celebration!

    I'm sharing many of my own recipes, plus several from my food-blogging colleagues. I reviewed 130 appetizers to find a variety that would appeal to Cooking with Mamma C readers.

    You'll find many authentic Italian recipes here, plus some with an Italian twist! Have fun exploring, and don't miss my collection of 33 Italian Side Dishes (Contorni)!

    63 Italian Appetizers

    Italian Seafood Appetizers

    This Italian seafood collection includes recipes for clams, mussels, calamari, shrimp and tuna! They’re perfect for Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve or your next clam bake!

    1

    Italian Fried Calamari Recipe

    Learn to make calamari fritti (Italian fried squid) at home! Don’t miss this family recipe from Naples that uses flour instead of bread crumbs!

    2

    Jumbo Fried Shrimp

    Our family’s Christmas Eve feast wouldn’t be the same without this fried shrimp! Serve with lemon wedges or cocktail sauce.

    3

    Copycat Maggiano’s Tuscan Mussels

    Photo Credit: www.threeolivesbranch.com

    You can make these mussels in 10 minutes! They’re cooked in a white wine sauce with beans, sun-dried tomatoes, and basil.

    4

    Baked Clam Dip with Mozzarella

    My family’s favorite appetizer includes the flavors of Clams Casino! With buttery onions, Italian bread crumbs, Parmesan and mozzarella, it's always a hit!

    5

    Italian Stuffed Cherry Peppers

    Photo Credit: www.marcellinaincucina.com

    These traditional Italian cherry peppers are stuffed with a paste of tuna, anchovies, capers, parsley and olives. Use jarred, pickled cherry peppers for convenience.

    Bread & Pizza Appetizers

    It wouldn’t be a party without some bread or pizza! Whether you need something sophisticated or kid-friendly, you can’t go wrong with these options.

    6

    Parmesan Focaccia with Rosemary

    Studded with rosemary and garlic, this Parmesan Focaccia is a beauty! It tastes delicious too and will be ready in two hours.

    7

    Garlic Olive Oil Bread Dip

    Photo Credit: ifoodreal.com

    You just need four ingredients to make this restaurant-style bread dip! Olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic and salt come together to create magic.

    8

    Homemade Italian Bread

    Nothing compares to Homemade Italian Bread! Cut it into crusty chunks and dip it in olive oil for a delicious appetizer that’s easier than you think!  

    9

    Homemade Pizza Dough with Beer

    Use this pizza dough recipe to make any size pizza you need! One batch makes enough for two sheet-pan pizzas you can cut into squares for parties.

    10

    Caprese Crostini Pizza

    Photo Credit: asimplepalate.com

    Make these cute little pizzas for an addictive appetizer on game day or any day! Use my homemade marinara to make them extra delicious.

    11

    Best Air Fryer Pizza Rolls

    Photo Credit: healthfulblondie.com

    Use homemade pizza dough or store-bought to make these fun pizza rolls! Once assembled, they’ll be ready in less than 15 minutes in the air fryer.

    12

    Prosciutto Date Flatbread

    Photo Credit: www.zestedlemon.com

    If you love sweet-and-salty food, you’re in for a treat! This flatbread pizza features mascarpone, prosciutto, dates, mozzarella and arugula. Oh my!

    13

    Escarole-Stuffed Pizza (Pizza di Scarola)

    The best Italian parties from my childhood included this Pizza di Scarola baked in sheet pans and cut into squares. Don’t miss this epic family recipe from Naples!

    Italian Appetizer Skewers

    Enjoy these fun and festive skewer appetizers! They look beautiful and taste even better.

    14

    Caprese Tortellini Skewers with Balsamic Glaze

    Photo Credit: happyhoneykitchen.com

    You just need 25 minutes to make this cold tortellini appetizer! Consider making them the night before for convenience.

    15

    Antipasto Skewers

    Photo Credit: hungryhealthyhappy.com

    Enjoy all the flavors of antipasto in these loaded Italian skewers! Featuring tomatoes, olives, mozzarella, salami, artichokes, prosciutto, spinach and sun-dried tomatoes…oh my!

    16

    Prosciutto Melon Skewers

    Photo Credit: feastingnotfasting.com

    These bite-sized skewers build on the delicious combination of prosciutto and melon by including pesto, mozzarella and balsamic glaze. They’re bursting with flavor!

    Crostini Appetizers

    “Crostini” refers to little toast slices. They’re perfect for topping with cheese, fruit, vegetables or beans. Try these crostini ideas or get creative with your own!

    17

    Tomato Bruschetta with Balsamic Glaze

    You'll love this bruschetta appetizer featuring broiled crostini topped with a delicious tomato salad and basil. Garlic powder provides subtle flavor, so there's no aftertaste! My family devours these!

    18

    Whipped Ricotta Toast

    Photo Credit: masalaandchai.com

    That picture says a thousand words! Whip ricotta cheese with cream and olive oil to make this delectable spread for toast.

    19

    Simple Fava Bean Crostini

    Photo Credit: dishnthekitchen.com

    Top your crostini with a vibrantly green purée of fava beans, olive oil, Parmesan, lemon and seasonings!

    20

    Artichoke Bruschetta Without Tomatoes or Basil Recipe

    Photo Credit: nofrillskitchen.com

    You just need ricotta, marinated artichoke hearts and a drizzle of balsamic glaze to top these crostini. What a great idea!

    21

    Fig and Goat Cheese Crostini with Prosciutto

    Photo Credit: yummyaddiction.com

    Italians love figs! Sweet figs and salty prosciutto come together to make appetizer magic for these crostini with goat cheese.

    22

    Roasted Raspberry Crostini

    Photo Credit: livingsweetmoments.com

    Did somebody say “roasted raspberries?!!” Yes, with creamy mascarpone and balsamic glaze. Count me in!

    23

    Grilled Peach & Burrata Bruschetta with Prosciutto

    Photo Credit: foodworthfeed.com

    If you need a summer appetizer, try this bruschetta with grilled peaches, burrata and prosciutto! What’s not to love?

    24

    Pesto Ricotta Crostini with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

    Photo Credit: thesavorycipolla.com

    We’ve got all the colors from the Italian flag here! Try Mom’s Pesto with Pecorino Romano on this crostini featuring ricotta and roasted cherry tomatoes.

    25

    Whipped Ricotta with Lemon

    Photo Credit: saporitokitchen.com

    Top grilled bread or crackers with this lemon-infused ricotta! You can even use it as a dip for vegetables.

    Italian Finger Food

    Forks are optional with this array of Italian finger food. From fried appetizers to baked taralli, I bet you can’t eat just one!

    26

    Italian Zucchini Fritters Recipe

    These delicious Zucchini Fritters feature a simple batter of flour, eggs and seasonings. Don't miss this family favorite from Naples handed down from my Nonna!

    27

    Stuffed Zucchini Blossoms

    Photo Credit: www.askchefdennis.com

    Do you know what’s better than fried zucchini blossoms? Stuffed fried zucchini blossoms! These include a delicious filling of ricotta and other
    Italian cheeses.

    28

    Baked Parmesan Crisps Recipe

    Known as frico in Italian, these low-carb Parmesan crisps work well as a stand-alone appetizer, or you can use them to scoop up dips. You just need 10 minutes to make them!

    29

    Air Fryer Parmesan Truffle Polenta Fries with Dipping Sauce

    Photo Credit: xoxobella.com

    Did you know you can bake a pan of polenta, freeze it when
    it cools, then cut it into fries to cook in the air fryer? Brilliant!

    30

    Fried Stuffed Olives (Olive Ascolane)

    Photo Credit: yourguardianchef.com

    Stuff large green olives with meat, coat the olives with bread crumbs, then deep fry them for this authentic Italian appetizer from the town of Ascoli Piceno. Include them on a fritto misto platter of fried finger food.

    31

    Fried Ravioli

    Photo Credit: www.dinneratthezoo.com

    If you love ravioli, you have to try fried ravioli! I bet you can’t eat just one. Dip them in my marinara sauce!

    32

    Taralli - Italian Black Pepper Cookies

    Photo Credit: theshortordercook.com

    If you’ve never had taralli, you’re in for a treat! They’re like crunchy bread sticks shaped into a ring and feature a nice black pepper accent.

    33

    Italian Deep Fried Custard -Crema Fritta

    Photo Credit: yourguardianchef.com

    This fried custard hails from the town of Ascoli Piceno in the Marche region of Italy. They have a bread crumb coating and can be served as a savory appetizer or a dessert.

    34

    Parmesan Baked Zucchini Fries (gluten-free) – A Simple Palate

    Photo Credit: asimplepalate.com

    Use green or yellow squash to make these baked veggie fries! Coat them with gluten-free bread crumbs or use my homemade bread crumbs.

    Antipasto Recipes

    Antipasto means food eaten "before the meal," and antipasti is plural. Enjoy this collection of antipasti, featuring bite-sized food like Italian olives, beans, tomatoes and prosciutto! What’s not to love?

    35

    Prosciutto and Melon

    Photo Credit: maplewoodroad.com

    Sweet, juicy cantaloupe and salty, savory prosciutto make the best combination! If you've never tried this simple Italian appetizer, you must make it, pronto!

    36

    Warm Citrus Olives

    Photo Credit: foodnouveau.com

    Here’s an easy appetizer that delivers big flavor. Start with store-bought olives, then marinate them overnight in a mixture of citrus zest and juice, herbs and olive oil!

    37

    Lupini Beans and Olives (How to Cook & Eat Lupini)

    Photo Credit: www.christinascucina.com

    Some Italians eat lupini like candy, popping one after another into their mouths! Learn to prepare these beans, which make a great appetizer or snack.

    38

    Roasted Cherry Tomatoes on the Vine

    Photo Credit: twocloveskitchen.com

    Roasting tomatoes sweetens them and makes them extra delicious! Learn how to roast cherry tomatoes with garlic for your antipasto platter.

    39

    10-Minute Marinated Mozzarella Balls Recipe

    Photo Credit: www.anediblemosaic.com

    You just need olive oil, herbs, red pepper flakes and garlic to elevate fresh mozzarella balls to a delicious Italian appetizer! These marinated mozzarella balls will keep for up to a week in the refrigerator.

    Vegetarian Italian Starters

    Italians love their vegetables! Enjoy these fantastic options. Most of them are legendary in my family!

    40

    Italian Peppers in Oil (Roasted & Marinated)

    These will be the most incredible peppers of your life! Learn to roast bell peppers, then sauté them with olive oil and garlic for additional depth of flavor. Enjoy this family recipe!

    41

    Italian Carrot Salad with Basil

    I'm not exaggerating when I say we have this Italian Carrot Salad at every family function. It's refreshing, delicious, and happens to be vegan! It's the perfect make-ahead Italian appetizer.

    42

    Mom's Spinach-Ricotta Pie

    Cut this Spinach-Ricotta Pie into little squares for a fabulous appetizer! This is one of my favorite foods of all time.

    43

    Antipasti

    Photo Credit: veganheaven.org

    This vegan recipe features sliced vegetables tossed in an oil-and-vinegar marinade, then baked!

    44

    Italian Zucchini Bake

    This from-scratch Italian Zucchini Bake is one of my most popular recipes! It's based on my Mom's version and includes Parmesan and Romano cheeses. Cut it into dainty squares for a delicious Italian appetizer that's perfect for any holiday or gathering.

    45

    Stuffed Italian Long Hot Peppers (Sausage and Cheese)

    Photo Credit: feelingfoodish.com

    Stuff these crunchy, savory peppers with sausage, bread crumbs and cheese for an irresistble appetizer! You just need 30 minutes to make them.

    Italian Eggplant Appetizers

    Eggplants are one of the most delicious and versatile Italian vegetables! Enjoy these mouthwatering recipes!

    46

    Caponatina (Eggplant Caponata Recipe)

    This Sicilian sweet-and-sour eggplant salad is addictive! Serve it cold or at room temperature, by itself or with crostini.

    47

    Baked Breaded Eggplant Slices

    This oven-fried, breaded eggplant features a nice kick of flavor from Romano cheese! Dip the slices in marinara sauce or spicy mayo, or serve them plain!

    48

    Pan-Fried Eggplant with Tomato Sauce

    These eggplants may look unassuming, but I promise, this authentic dish from Naples will rock your world! Serve it chilled or at room temperature with crusty Italian bread.

    49

    Grilled Eggplant, Prosciutto & Mozzarella Roll Ups

    Photo Credit: www.drugstoredivas.net

    Serve these warm and enjoy the flavors of balsamic grilled eggplant stuffed with prosciutto and fresh mozzarella!

    Stuffed Mushroom Appetizers

    You can stuff mushrooms with or without meat and with or without bread crumbs. You can even stuff them with seafood! Enjoy these delicious options!

    50

    Italian Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms

    Photo Credit: butteryourbiscuit.com

    The filling for these mushrooms includes Italian sausage, cream cheese, bread crumbs, Parmesan, onion and garlic! You can even freeze the filling for a make-ahead option.

    51

    Olive Garden's Clam Stuffed Mushrooms

    Photo Credit: alekasgettogether.com

    Use mini portobello mushrooms for these appetizers stuffed with a mixture of clams, bread crumbs, garlic, sherry vinegar and Parmesan. The mushrooms turn out crispy on top and juicy inside!

    52

    The Best Italian Stuffed Mushrooms

    Photo Credit: lynnswayoflife.com

    These meatless stuffed mushrooms feature cheesy bread crumbs, olive oil and garlic! Use button or cremini mushrooms.

    53

    Keto Stuffed Mushrooms with Cream Cheese

    Don't let the name fool you! My stuffed mushroom recipe includes Parmesan, mozzarella, garlic, lemon and basil for the best Italian twist!

    Italian Meat Appetizers

    Consider meatballs or Italian chicken wings for your selection of hot appetizers. They're always a hit!

    54

    Gluten-Free Turkey Meatballs in Sauce

    Enjoy these fork-tender meatballs and a delicious sauce without the hassle of browning the meatballs first! You can make them in a smaller size for an appetizer.

    55

    Stuffed Meatballs Noshing With the Nolands Appetizers

    Photo Credit: noshingwiththenolands.com

    These sausage meatballs include a filling of three kinds of cheese and a tomato! They're breaded and fried for a crunchy exterior and a melty interior.

    56

    Rosemary Garlic Chicken Wings

    Photo Credit: www.garlicandzest.com

    Rosemary and garlic make a delicious combo! These chicken wings also include lemon zest and red pepper flakes to make the flavors pop.

    Burrata Appetizers

    Have you tried burrata cheese? It hails from the Puglia region of Italy and features an outer shell of fresh mozzarella. The inside includes shreds of mozzarella and cream for a decadent delight!

    57

    Burrata with Crispy 'Nduja & Gremolata

    Photo Credit: www.insidetherustickitchen.com

    Enjoy this spicy appetizer of burrata topped with spreadable salami, Parmigiano Reggiano, parsley, lemon zest and garlic! Serve it with grilled ciabatta bread.

    58

    Easy Pesto Appetizer Recipe with Burrata and Roasted Tomatoes

    Photo Credit: www.thefreshcooky.com

    Top creamy burrata with roasted cherry tomatoes, pesto, basil and pine nuts, then drizzle it with olive oil and balsamic glaze! Serve it with crostini and dig in.

    59

    Burrata with Roasted Pear + Brown Butter

    Photo Credit: braisedanddeglazed.com

    Sweet pears and salty cheese make a classicly Italian combination! Browned butter and Marcona almonds take this appetizer over the top.

    Appetizers with an Italian Twist

    If you've visited Cooking with Mamma C before, you know I often put an Italian twist on dishes to make them better! Haha! Enjoy these creations.

    60

    Baked Parmesan Jalapeño Poppers with Prosciutto (Gluten Free)

    These poppers have a crispy, buttery Parmesan crust made without bread crumbs. The cream cheese filling includes little cubes of salty prosciutto. No wonder they're my Mom's favorite appetizer!

    61

    Spinach and Asiago Artichoke Dip

    I took spinach-artichoke dip to the next level by adding Asiago cheese, sautéed red onions and a kick of heat from red pepper flakes! It's always a hit!

    62

    Baked Parmesan Gluten-Free Onion Rings

    Seasoned Parmesan cheese replaces bread crumbs in these to-die-for onion rings! A secret ingredient makes the coating crispy. Dip the rings in melted butter and prepare to swoon!

    63

    Pesto Deviled Eggs

    Did you know deviled eggs originated in ancient Rome?!! They didn't have mayo and mustard, of course. I've taken the liberty of using pesto, lemon zest and white balsamic vinegar (affiliate link) to return deviled eggs to their Italian glory!

    I hope you found some amazing Italian Appetizer Recipes! Be sure to check out my other collections:

    • Italian Thanksgiving Dinner Ideas
    • 29 Thinly Sliced Chicken Breast Recipes
    • 33 Italian Lent Recipes
    • 4th of July Menu Ideas
    • 50 BEST Spinach Recipes for Dinner

    Enjoy!

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    I'm Andrea, also known as Mamma C. I share family-tested recipes from my Italian-American kitchen. I hope you'll visit often! Read More…

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