While in LasVegas recently at the Venetian Resort and Casino for an event, we had the great honor to have appetizers and wine with some of our friends at WeddingWire. Actually it was Antipasti, which gave us a great idea for a wedding.
Antipasto means “before the meal” and is the traditional first course of a formal Italian meal. Traditional antipasto includes cured meats, olives, roasted garlic, pepperoni, mushrooms, anchovies, artichoke hearts, various cheeses (such as provolone or mozzarella and peperone (marinated small green bell peppers not to be confused with pepperoni). The antipasto is usually topped off with olive oil.
Many compare antipasto to hors d’oeuvre, but antipasto is served at the table and signifies the official beginning of the Italian meal. It may be referred to as a starter, or an entrée outside the United States and English Canada.
All said, it was a great way to share time with friends over a glass of wine and great conversation. For brides looking for a great way to incorporate this into their wedding, you may want to consider this as either the butler course at your cocktail reception using a fun cheese board concept with your monogram or invitation signature element printed on the parchment paper, or as the starter of your formal dinner as guests are seated.