Italians have mastered the art of eating well and using meals as a celebration of life. For formal or festive occasions, anytime there is something to celebrate, there is a specific order to the meal courses and what they contain. A classic Italian meal provides a backdrop for a memorable social occasion.
The Structure of an Italian Meal
ANTIPASTI
This course can be considered an appetizer, however, the Italian food version is likely to be more complex than its American counterpart. It is commonly considered the “starter.” Oftentimes, it consists of a variety platter. My favorite platter contains sharp provolone, paper-thin Genoa salami slices, roasted peppers, marinated artichoke hearts, and an assortment of olives. Of course, other cold cuts and cheeses are used depending on individual tastes, as well as different marinated vegetables. Other antipasti may use salmon or tuna, perhaps used in a stuffed tomato, bruschetta, or a creative vegetable-based item.
PRIMO
The first course is hot and is usually meatless. Pasta and rice are the typical basis for primi piatti dishes, and sometimes polenta. They can be quite elaborate and contain seafood, vegetables or legumes, in multiple combinations. A hearty soup may also serve as a primo piatti serving.
SECONDO
This is the primary meat (or fish) course. Chicken, beef, pork, or lamb, may be prepared with a regional flair. The item may be pan-fried, sautéed, broiled roasted, or grilled There is usually a simple presentation, given the heaviness of the primo piatt0. Sometimes there may be two secondi piatti offerings one meat and one fish, but the portions would be reduced accordingly.
CONTORNI
This would be a platter of vegetables served with the secondi piatti. They are prepared simply, often with butter or olive oil along with herbs, to bring out their natural flavors. A salad could also be eaten during this course. Contorni dishes are served alongside secondo piatti dishes. Common cotorni dishes maybe raw or cooked. They are served on a different plate than the meat or seafood of the secondo piatto, so as to not mix on a plate and allow for the preservation of the integrity of flavors.
FORMAGGI E FRUTTA
Although not always provided, cheese and fresh fruit (e.g., grapes) may be added here.
DOLCE
The dessert options are endless! They range from light offerings (e.g., panna cotta) to heavy, elaborate creations (layered cakes). Perhaps a sorbetto or gelato would be served. Regional specialties offer a variety of spectacular meal-ending offerings.
CAFFE
Coffee is a must, preferably a strong espresso, with a lemon twist or brown sugar
DIGESTIVO
Finally, the meal is topped off with a digestivo. Typically, this refers to Amari (a type of liqueur containing herbs and spices). I refer you to YourGuidetoItaly.com – Italian liqueurs and Amari for a discussion and description of the wide range of digestivi and liqueurs.
Personally, I prefer Amaretto, Sambuca, or Frangelica.
What about bread?
Bread (sliced, chunks off the loaf, or rolls) is an important part of Italian meals. Typically, it would be consumed during the secondo piatto. You may find bread-sticks or bruschetta served during the antipasti. It would not be unusual for Italians to use bread after a primo piatto servings of pasta to sop up the tomato sauce remaining in the dish.
Everyday Italian meals
This elaborate structure would not usually be followed for everyday meals. For example, the pasta and meat may be combined (e.g., pasta and meatballs). If a salad is served, contorni may not be used. Fresh fruit and nuts may serve as dessert. An inexpensive table wine be used. You are free to adjust and create as many or as few courses as you prefer.
Beverages
Wine and water, that’s it! The water may be sparkling or still, typically at room temperature.
OK, now you can see why the full course Italian meal is reserved for special occasions. The most important part of this meal structure, from my perspective, is that it provides the opportunity for conversations and sharing. It can’t be rushed, it takes time. It starts with those preparing the meal, cooking Italian food is an act of love and about sharing something special. A full course Italian meal is about using Italian food to build relationships, connections, and a shared experience around a table. It is not rushed, and there is no place for mobile phones or tablets.
