Appetizers are more than just enjoyments before the meal. They pave the way for what is to come during your special meal. They set your stomach up for a large meal by stimulating digestion and reducing the chance of overeating. If planned, appetizers are also a good way to maintain the balance of your meal. For instance, if you eat a carb-heavy meal, go for a fiber-rich appetizer and vice versa.
In Italy, an appetizer is a stage-setter for a delicious meal. They are called antipasto and range from very fresh, unadorned dishes to absolutely big hearty dishes, all designed to tease the buds to the feasts that are about to come.
At Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza and Wings, we are committed to providing you with an authentic Italian dining experience, including appetizers. Here are ten most well-known Italian appetizers that will surely raise your dining experience.
1. Broccoli Rabe and Sausage
An Italian delicacy made of slightly bitter broccoli rabe sautéed in garlic and olive oil and paired with juicy savory Italian sausage. The hint of chili flakes adds mild heat while the touch of Parmesan gives it a subtle richness. All these simple but flavorful ingredients make a satisfying coal fired starter before your coal fired pizza. Enjoyed best as an appetizer, Broccoli rabe, and sausage also serve as a nice wholesome snack complete with protein and fiber.
2. Caesar Salad
A Caesar Salad consists of romaine, rich with delicious Caesar dressing. It is made of high-quality ingredients focaccia croutons and Romano cheese to grant richness and savoriness to romaine. It provides a satisfying crunch and with extra topping of grated cheese for the finishing touch, it is just perfect. The flavors and textures of fresh leafy vegetables with the tanginess of cheese combined present the ultimate refreshing and delectable beginning to any meal.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh, Light, and Perfectly Balanced
Caprese salad is fresh mozzarella slices, ripe tomatoes, basil leaves, olive oil, and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar. Though a basic salad, Caprese salad is an iconic Italian combination and is best to sample when fresh produce is available during the warmer months. On a slightly sweeter and smoother side, Caprese salad is a simple and light serving, perfect for a starter meal.
4. Hot Honey Wings
Hot honey wings are nothing but a bold combination of heat and sweetness. They are crispy, juicy chicken wings doused in spicy hot sauces and sweet honey. Crushed garlic and a dash of vinegar provide depth and complexity to the sauce.
Sprinkled with sesame seeds and fresh herbs for a final touch, it packs a crunch and burst of flavor in every bite. Whether it’s as an appetizer or main dish, Mike’s Hot Honey Wings at Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza and Wings are a sell-out crowd favorite. Next time you dine with us, pair your hot honey wings with Mike’s Hot Honey Pizza and experience the complete hot honey meal.
5. Meatballs With Sauce
A classic Italian comfort food, these meatballs are flavored with garlic, herb, and a little sprinkling of Parmesan allowed to simmer in a wonderfully rich and flavorful tomato sauce until fully cooked. Every bite is supremely satisfying as it combines in a certain magical way, the juiciness of meat with the flavor of seasoning and the comfort of homemade sauce. Whether served alone or with pasta, meatballs truly epitomize the Italian classic, always a great pleasure to have them on the table.
At Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza and Wings, we serve meatballs both as Spaghetti and meatballs and as a separate starter, Maria’s meatballs – large meatballs in Italian plum tomato sauce.
6. Garlic Knots
Garlic Knots are a soft, buttery dough, flavored with a magical overdose of garlic. Each knot of dough is baked freshly to golden brown perfection, brushed with a generous amount of garlic butter, then sprinkled on with a wisp of parsley. The result is warm satisfying bites with a savory aromatic finish that is hard to resist. For dipping, served with marinara sauce, this simple garlic and bread preparation serves as a perfect starter or accompaniment to any Italian meal.
7. Roasted Chicken Wings
Roasted Chicken Wings are perfectly seasoned chicken wings roasted to golden, crispy perfection. Each wing is coated in a blend of herbs and spices, creating a flavorful, savory crust that locks in the natural juiciness of the chicken. Roasted until the skin is crispy and the meat is tender, these wings are served with a side of tangy dipping sauce to complement their rich flavor. We serve our coal fired roasted chicken wings with a side of delicious focaccia bread.
8. Arugula Burrata Salad
Anthony’s Arugula Burrata salad makes for the freshest and lightest appetizer infused with wonderful creamy flavors. It features peppery arugula as its base and velvety burrata that oozes like the creamy goodness that it is.
Sweet cherry tomatoes burst forth in flavor, while the drizzling of extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze further enhances with tangy and earthy notes. It is finished with a sprinkle of sea salt and oven-roasted red pepper. This lively salad is the perfect way to begin any meal.
9. Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Spinach and Artichoke Dip is an indulgent, luscious appetizer for the senses. Fresh spinach and artichoke hearts, stirred into a smooth, creamy blend with a hint of garlic and mozzarella, fill this dip with flavor. Perfectly warm and molten at the time of serving, at Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza and Wings, it comes along with some crispy Romano focaccia. The irresistible dipping has the tang, cream, and earthy flavors, making it a perfect starter for any meal or private shareable snack.
10. Eggplant Marino
Eggplant Marino at Anthony’s is a deliciously simple appetizer. Fresh, tender slices of eggplant are lightly fried to a golden crisp, then topped with a rich and tangy marinara sauce made from ripe tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil. Finished with a sprinkle of Pecorino Romano, this dish offers the perfect balance of crispy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors. Served warm, Eggplant Marino is an inviting and satisfying way to start any meal, offering the comforting taste of Italian tradition in every bite.
Try These Appetizers At Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza And Wings
Italian appetizers are more than just a prelude — they’re an integral part of the meal that showcases the country’s culinary artistry. From the fresh simplicity of Arugula Burratta to the hearty indulgence of garlic knots, these dishes offer a taste of Italy that’s both satisfying and memorable.
At Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza and Wings, we take pride in offering a selection of popular Italian appetizers that capture the essence of traditional Italian cooking. Visit your nearest outlet to explore these dishes and set the perfect tone for your meal.
