People have this notion that preparing an Italian meal is complicated and requires a lot of time to prepare. This may be true in formal Italian meals in the past however times have changed. Even luxury Michelin starred restaurants like 1 lombard st now make use of easy and fast to prepare dishes to address today’s fast-paced and always on the go lifestyle. Italian meals today have become flexible having only two meals that complement each other. A formal Italian meal course may consist with a combination of the following:

Antipasti

The word antipasti means “before the meal” thus this is considered as the appetizer. Although not commonly practiced in everyday meals, it is an important element of an Italian meal.

Primi Piatti

Primi piatti refers to the first courses. This can be pasta, a rice dish or a soup. Usually, pasta is given since it is an Italian staple. It can be prepared in a lot of different ways most of which needs only a few minutes of preparation. Risotto or rice dish is another option for primi piatti and so are dumplings which can be anything from the a simple baked potato to the more complex mixture of ricotta and herbs.

Secondi Piatti

This is the second course also known as the entrée. This is the part of the Italian meal where meat dishes can now be served. Since the antipasti and the primi piatti may already have filled the guests stomach, the entrée is usually small in serving.

Meat served in the secondi piatti can be anything from rabbit meat, to poultry which can be prepared in so many different ways to bring out their taste and natural flavor. You may also opt to prepare seafood especially if it is in season.

Contorni

Controni or side dishes are prepared to complement the secondi piatti. In Italian meals, controni are usually combinations of cooked vegetables. These are usually served in room temperature so as to enhance the taste.

Insalata

Served after the final course is the insalata or salad. They are very refreshing after eating a heavy course. This is also to prepare the guests’ palate for the desert course.

Frutta

Fruits are kept and served in a bowl of water with ice. You can also serve nuts and other dried fruits.

Dolci

To complete the Italian meal, desserts are served to the guests. During this time, a cup of coffee, perhaps an espresso, is served to complete the Italian meal.

Photo credits: Italiana.co.uk

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