Italian starters

A classic Arancini recipe for an Italian favorite. It makes for a great starter for dinner or appetizer at a party. Vegetarian risotto balls filled with mozzarella, breaded and fried. Served with warmed marinara.

If you must know something about me, I’m pretty much a huge sucker for anything fried or cheesy, but come on who isn’t? These cheesy arancini (rice balls) are the perfect appetizers for any party, event or even just because. Arancini is known as “adult mozzarella sticks”, but these crispy, deep fried Italian balls of rice are oozing with the ooey-gooey mozzarella cheese filling.

London’s vibrant Flat Iron Square in SE1 is home to a clutch of independent restaurants, food trucks, artisan bakers and bars – including Lupins, whose small plates have given big pleasure to lots of people. Their flavour-packed starter is dead easy to make at home. For more starters with a Mediterranean spin, browse our Italian starter recipes collection.

A stunning Italian starter by Angela Hartnett featuring sweet roasted red peppers, salty anchovies, roasted garlic and basil.

Looking for Italian appetizers? Here's a delicious collection of Italian starters, including antipasto, vegetarian, meat and seafood options!

This abundant Italian spread of cured meat, cheese, marinated vegetables, and more is the ultimate way to kick of a meal.

Tomato Bruschetta, is a must for every outdoor grilling or barbecue meal. Made with fresh tomatoes, onions, celery, basil, parsley, oregano and olive oil. Easy Tomato Bruschetta, Italian never tasted so good.

The perfect starter to any Italian meal, Crudo three ways, is refreshing, zesty & light and will be a stand out hit with your guests

Hosting a gathering? Don't forget to provide tasty food for your guests. This list of amazing Italian appetizers will make your party a hit.

Caponata is an Italian appetizer bursting with flavor! Eggplant and Mediterranean vegetables make a tangy, garlicky spread that's perfect over crusty bread.