"Let's have an aperitif?": three snacks to pair together

The aperitif hour is a beloved ritual, a moment of relaxation and conviviality, ideal for unwinding and enjoying the company of friends and family, sipping refreshing drinks and tasting delicious snacks.

Whether it’s a classic Spritz, a glass of wine, or an innovative cocktail, the aperitif is the perfect prelude to an evening filled with good company and good food.

The right location for the aperitif

We are all convinced that the best aperitifs are those with a beautiful view, the ones perfect for sharing jaw-dropping photos on social media that spark envy in those who see them, without realizing that the perfect location can be anywhere, because what really matters is the right company, a good drink, and some delicious snacks.

Imagine enjoying a sunset from a panoramic terrace, chatting with friends, or relaxing in a cozy neighborhood bar, where laughter and toasts mix in the air. Even a simple park can turn into the ideal spot, with an impromptu picnic and the sounds of nature in the background. And what about the comfort of one’s own home, where intimacy and family warmth make every sip even more enjoyable? Wherever you are, an aperitif becomes magical when you have the right people by your side, a refreshing drink in hand, and some tasty treats to share. Because, in the end, it’s the atmosphere of conviviality and joy that transforms any place into the perfect environment for an unforgettable aperitif.

Three tasty treats for your aperitif

In Italy, some small delights cannot miss during the aperitif.

Spaghetti & Mandolino offers you three delicacies to serve your guests for a spectacular aperitif full of tradition and good taste.

As the first snack, we propose artisan taralli which are an authentic delight of Italian culinary tradition, particularly widespread in the regions of Southern Italy such as Puglia, Campania, and Calabria. These crunchy rings, made with simple ingredients like flour, olive oil, white wine, and salt, are often enriched with fennel seeds, black pepper, or chili to add an extra touch of flavor. Their preparation follows traditional methods passed down through generations, involving a double cooking process: first boiled and then baked, to achieve their characteristic crunchy texture. Perfect as a snack or accompaniment to cheeses and cured meats, artisan taralli represent a tasting experience that celebrates the authenticity and simplicity of Italian cuisine.

Another tasty treat could be giardiniera, a typical appetizer of Italian cuisine also served as an accompaniment for the aperitif characterized by a mix of fresh vegetables in vinegar. This dish has humble origins and was created as a method of preserving vegetables during the winter months. Commonly used vegetables include carrots, celery, bell peppers, cauliflower, and onions, chopped and immersed in a solution of vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. The result is a crunchy and aromatic side dish, perfect for pairing with cured meats, cheeses, and meat dishes. Giardiniera can be personalized with the addition of spices and aromatic herbs, making it a versatile dish enjoyed in many regions of Italy.

A good idea to accompany the aperitif could also be peperone crusco, a typical product of Lucanian cuisine: it is a sweet pepper, sun-dried, that acquires a crunchy texture and an intense, slightly smoky flavor.
Once dried, the peperone crusco is dipped in hot oil for a few seconds to achieve its crunchiness, attaining a texture similar to that of chips. This ingredient is very versatile in the kitchen: it can be used to flavor pasta dishes, meat, or fish, or it can be consumed as a crunchy snack. The peperone crusco is a symbol of Lucanian culinary tradition, appreciated for its unique taste and its ability to enrich many recipes with its distinctive flavor.

The aperitif is the perfect occasion to relax and socialize, celebrating the authentic flavors of our land.