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 co*cktail 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.
6
White Clam Pizza
This White Clam Pizza features buttery onions, canned clams, garlic and Pecorino Romano cheese! Drizzle on some lemon juice and scatter on fresh basil for a crowd-pleasing appetizer!
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.
7
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.
8
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.
9
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!
10
Beer Pizza Dough
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.
11
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.
12
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.
13
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!
14
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.
15
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.
16
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!
17
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!
18
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!
19
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.
20
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!
21
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!
22
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.
23
Roasted Raspberry Crostini
Photo Credit:livingsweetmoments.com
Did somebody say “roasted raspberries?!!” Yes, with creamy mascarpone and balsamic glaze. Count me in!
24
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?
25
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.
26
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!
27
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!
28
Fried Zucchini Flowers Recipe
These Fried Zucchini Flowers are so delicious in a simple batter accented with basil and seasonings. Don't miss this post for all of the details you need to find and prepare zucchini flowers!
29
Stuffed Zucchini Blossoms
Photo Credit:www.askchefdennis.com
Have you ever tried stuffed zucchini blossoms? These include a delicious filling of ricotta and other Italian cheeses.
30
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!
31
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!
32
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.
33
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!
34
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.
35
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.
36
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?
37
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!
38
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!
39
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.
40
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.
41
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!
42
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!
43
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.
44
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.
45
Antipasti
Photo Credit:veganheaven.org
This vegan recipe features sliced vegetables tossed in an oil-and-vinegar marinade, then baked!
46
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.
47
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!
48
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.
49
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!
50
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.
51
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!
52
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.
53
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!
54
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.
55
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!
56
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.
57
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.
58
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!
59
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.
60
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.
61
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.
62
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!
63
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!
64
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!
65
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!
