When you have never been to Italy and are looking at an Italian menu for the first time, the number of choices may overwhelm you when deciding upon an appetizer. Should you choose seafood, something that has cheese, or a combination of both? As the appetizer course will set the pace for your entire meal, at Trattoria il Panino, Boston’s original Italian restaurant, we’ll guide you to help you pick the best option and to pair it with the right wine.
Light Seafood & Starters
It’s usually better to eat lightly if you plan on having a larger, heavier pasta or meat entree. The Pepata di Cozze dish provides fresh mussels that have been cooked in a spicy garlic and white wine broth with Colina tomatoes. The broth is so good, you will want to mop it up with all of the crusty bread you can find. If you would prefer something cold and refreshing, the Octopus Salad features tender pieces of octopus combined with potatoes, celery, and green olives, which create a wonderful Mediterranean flavor. These light seafood appetizers pair well with some white wines from our wine list. A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc will not overpower the light flavors of the seafood, and a glass of Prosecco adds a celebratory touch to cut through the rich flavors of the olive oil.
Hearty Cheese & Meat Options
Those who want a more filling appetizer will enjoy the Carpaccio di Bresaola dish, as it consists of thinly sliced dried cured beef served atop shaved Parmesan and arugula. While it is light enough to allow for room for your next course, it is hearty enough to serve as a course by itself. Mom’s Meatballs & Ricotta is comfort food at its finest, featuring homemade meatballs served with fresh ricotta. These heavier appetizers require red wines that have a bit more body. A Chianti or Montepulciano d’Abruzzo will complement the savory meat flavors without overpowering your palate prior to the arrival of your next course.
Vegetarian Favorites
You don’t have to overlook the vegetable options. The Melanzane alla Parmigiana dish is made of baked eggplant layered with mozzarella and tomato sauce. This is a rich, cheesy dish that could easily be a meal on its own. The Cold Assorted Vegetable Antipasto is the perfect option if your table can’t agree on just one item. It comes with broccoli rabe, roasted peppers, sautéed escarole, eggplant caponata, homemade mozzarella, mushrooms, zucchini, and house crostini.
Options abound for vegetarians. A light Pinot Grigio will work with the antipasto platter, while a medium-bodied Valpolicella Classico Superiore will pair well with the eggplant parmigiana’s tomato sauce and cheese.
Wine Pairing Suggestions
To keep things simple: match the weight of your wine to the weight of your food. Fresh and light appetizers such as the octopus salad need a light and fresh wine. Heavier dishes with cheese and/or meat can handle a bold red. If you’re unsure, ask your server – they are familiar with the menu and will be able to guide you in the right direction.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular appetizers?
The Mom’s Meatballs & Ricotta and the Cold Assorted Vegetable Antipasto are two of the guests’ favorite appetizers. The meatballs provide comfort food done right, while the vegetable platter allows you to try a little bit of everything.
How many appetizers should I order per group?
One good rule of thumb is to order one appetizer per two people, but if you want to share and try a few different items, then go ahead and order one per person. Italian dining is all about trying new foods and enjoying the experience together with friends and family.
Now that you are ready to begin your Italian feast, make your reservations at Trattoria il Panino today and see why we were voted Boston’s original Italian restaurant.