With hungry guests eagerly awaiting the dinner of the year, you’re sure to get the occasional wanderer in the kitchen hoping to score a sample. Don’t make your guests wait for the main course to tease their appetites with taste of Italian home cooking.
These bite-size starters are perfect for a large crowd, and take just a few minutes to put together.
Caprese Sticks
Make a deliciously simple appetizer in just minutes by pairing classic Italian flavors. For a finger-friendly starter, thread cherry tomatoes, IV Mozzarella di Bufala, and fresh, whole leaves of basil onto a skewer or toothpick. Drizzle with Il Villaggio
Gorgonzola and Walnut Stuffed Figs
Sharp Il Villaggio Gorgonzola and sweet figs are a match made in heaven in this delicious appetizer recipe. By adding chopped walnuts to the mix, we get a contrast in textures that will have your mouth watering.
Ingredients
● 12 large, fresh figs
● Il Villaggio Balsamico di Modena
● Kosher salt
● 5 ounces of Il Villaggio Gorgonzola
● ¼ cup of chopped walnuts
Preparation:
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Slice each fig in half, lengthwise. Place them face-up on a baking sheet. Using your finger, press a gently press a small hole into the fruity flesh of each fig. Drizzle the fig halves with the balsamic vinegar and sprinkle with salt.
Fill each fig with Gorgonzola and top with a sprinkle of chopped walnuts. Bake for 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Taleggio, Apple and Herb Crostinis
Crostinis are always a popular choice this time of year, and for good reason. They’re filling, easy to pick up, and you can put almost anything on top of them. This recipe is makes a gourmet creation easy and delicious.
● 3 tablespoons of natural honey
● 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
● 1 crisp red apple, sliced into small matchsticks
● 1/2 lemon
● 7 ounces of Il Villaggio Taleggio
● Lightly toasted baguette slices, about ½ loaf
Preparation:
Place the thyme in a small bowl and cover with the honey. Heat in the microwave for about 30 seconds, or until bubbling. Generously spread the Taleggio on the bread slices, then top decoratively with a pinch of apple. Drizzle with honey.
For More Recipes…
Like our Prosciutto Wrapped, Gorgonzola Stuffed Dates In A Honey-Balsamic Drizzle, or our Spinach Dip, stop by the recipe section of our site.
To serve as an appetizer, cut each mushroom into thin wedges. You may also serve each whole cap as a meatless main dish, if desired.
