Finger-licking Aperitifs: Ten Snacks to Discover

One of the most beloved convivial rituals among Italians is the aperitif. In a light and relaxing atmosphere, one abandons oneself to the pleasure of conversation between friends and work colleagues. Tarallini, olives, chips or bruschetta, combined with cocktails or light wines, are among the protagonists of serene moments, also caressed by background music that does not suffocate the words.  If you have decided to organize an aperitif at home, perhaps on the terrace or in the garden, here are some snacks that your guests will love.

Crisps

Potatoes, carrots, aubergines, courgettes are transformed into thin sheets that are fried in abundant oil and sprinkled with salt – why not try the exotic pink salt of the Himalayas? -. In addition to being healthy and tasty, they are beautiful to look at so they should be highlighted by pouring them into glass bowls.

Dryers

Wherever there is an aperitif, there are them, the tarallini. In the classic or more imaginative formulation, such as those with pizzaiola or olives created by Fiore di Puglia, these crunchy and tasty snacks, give verve to even the most challenging cocktails. The Apulians consider them hunger-busters. Like cherries, one tarallo leads to another.

Olives

Whether it's Taggiasca for their sweet and bitter taste or Belle di Cerignola, bright green and pulpy, olives - strictly skewered with toothpicks - are among the protagonists of the aperitif. We suggest you try the combination of fragrant fennel tarallini with Martini cocktail.

Roasted peanuts

When you think of an aperitif, you also think of small, tasty peanuts. They are displayed at the bar counter, next to the drinks. They are found in the supermarket in vacuum-packed packages. They should be served in a bowl, taking care to give guests the teaspoons they need to take them.

Focaccia with burrata

Every Italian region has its own focaccia. With or without tomato; with oil and rosemary; stuffed…in Puglia you will find another specialty: focaccia squares with burrata. Your guests will appreciate the fragrant morsels garnished with burrata or simple mozzarella to buy at the supermarket or at your trusted dairy. 

Bruschetta

Only imagination is the rule to follow when garnishing bruschetta, the undisputed star of the aperitif. With tomato, basil and a drizzle of oil, with grilled vegetables, or with warm Colonnata lard, bruschetta is an excellent substitute for bread: you can find it ready-made at the supermarket, in convenient packages branded Fiore di Puglia. With bruschettas decorated in various ways, you will amaze everyone.

Tzatziki sauce

Crunchiness and strong flavors. Taralli and tzatziki sauce. Guests who love a stronger taste will appreciate this harmony of flavors.  In addition to finding it ready-made in the refrigerator section, this particular sauce can be prepared at home very easily. Finely chop fresh cucumbers with a knife and mix them with chopped garlic and yogurt. The cream should be poured into a small bowl and served cold.

Chickpea hummus with crudités

Mediterranean flavors and French cuisine are found in this summer dish. Hummus can be purchased ready-made or prepared at home in five minutes: blend boiled chickpeas with a tablespoon of tahini, lemon juice, salt, pepper, paprika, cumin and oil. Pour it into glass bowls  and pair it with cherry tomatoes, fennel, carrots, raw peppers and other vegetables. Serve with savory croutons.

Wholemeal bruschetta bread with avocado

Take a ripe avocado, peel it and cut it into pieces. Mash it with a fork in a bowl with salt, pepper, aromatic herbs and chili pepper: you will obtain a thick cream to spread on these Fiore di Puglia crostini. Made with wholemeal flour, they will liven up this inviting snack.

Piadina rolls

Here's an idea our grandmothers would appreciate: prepare tasty dishes with what's in the pantry and fridge. Take a piadina, spread cream cheese, arrange turkey breast or any other cured meat you have available. Add a touch of extra with grilled vegetables, lettuce or another type of salad and season with a drizzle of oil. Roll up the stuffed piadina and serve in slices.