11 November 2024
Dreaming of Italy? Recreate the Milanese Aperitivo at Home!
For Italians, spending time with friends often means… Aperitivo! But don’t worry, even if you're far away from Italy, you can still recreate an authentic Italian Aperitivo with your friends in just a few simple steps. Trust me, it’s easier than you think, and it'll feel like a mini trip to Italy without leaving your couch!
In Italy, Aperitivo is more than just a drink; it’s a ritual. After a long day, it’s the perfect time to unwind, catch up with friends or colleagues, and enjoy a light drink before dinner. The word “aperitif” comes from the Latin "aperire," meaning to open, which is fitting as these drinks are meant to "open" your appetite. That’s why classic Aperitivo cocktails often feature a bitter liqueur or a dry, sparkling prosecco.
If you've traveled with Nada’s Italy on one of our small group tours to Italy, you’ve experienced the genuine Italian lifestyle and know that wine is rarely enjoyed outside of meals. In Italy, wine is meant to be paired with food, and this unspoken rule applies to most alcoholic drinks. Whether you're at home or in a bustling city center, a bitter cocktail is typically served with a selection of meats, cheeses, vegetables, nuts, and maybe some light sandwiches or spreads. The best part? Once you order your drink (typically around 12-15 Euros), the food is included!
But let’s take a step back. While Aperitivo has been around for ages, the modern version we know today was born in the glamorous city of Milan in the 1980s. With the city booming thanks to fashion, business, and finance, bars and restaurants had to step up their game, and so the concept of Apericena was born. Aperitivo that almost replaces dinner! Alongside your drink, you’ll now find a buffet of artisanal sandwiches, pasta, risotto, salads, and much more, all included with the purchase of a cocktail or glass of wine.
How to Recreate Aperitivo at Home
Creating an authentic Italian Aperitivo experience at home is easier than you might think, and it’s the perfect way to bring the beauty and flavor of Italy to your friends and family. Here are a few simple steps to help you set up your own Italian Aperitivo.
1. The Drinks
Italian cocktails tend to be on the bitter side, but if that’s not your thing, a glass of prosecco is always a good choice. For the best experience, pour your prosecco into a regular wine glass instead of a flute to allow the bubbles to spread evenly.
Negroni
- Campari
- Gin
- Red Vermouth
Mix equal parts Campari, gin, and red vermouth, stir (not shake!), and serve over ice with an orange peel. This drink is iconic in Italian culture, and it’s ideal for those who love a bold, balanced flavor.
Spritz
- Aperol
- Prosecco
- Club soda (or sparkling water)
Mix 3 parts prosecco, 2 parts Aperol, and 1 part club soda (or sparkling water) for a classic Spritz. For an old-school touch, use sparkling mineral water instead of soda!
The drink selection is key to an authentic Aperitivo. But in true Italian style, the Aperitivo ritual is about more than just drinks; it’s about sharing good food with good company.
2. The Food: A Taste of Italy
Now for the star of the show: the food! Until your next trip to Italy, you can create a delicious tagliere (meat and cheese board) with fresh, authentic ingredients that transport you straight to an Italian piazza. Here’s what you’ll need to get that authentic flavor:
- Cured Meats: No Aperitivo is complete without them! Start with prosciutto, and add salami, soppressata, or your favorite Italian meats.
- Cheese: Fresh mozzarella, Asiago, Pecorino, or even a rich Taleggio will elevate your Aperitivo. Pair them with our favorite spreads from Antichi Sapori Umbri for that extra Italian touch.
- Bread: Crostini or grissini (Italian breadsticks) are perfect companions. Make your own crostini by slicing a baguette, drizzling with olive oil, and toasting in the oven until crispy.
- Vegetables: Roasted or raw, a little olive oil, salt, and pepper are all you need to prepare a classic Italian vegetable dish. Try eggplant, asparagus, or radicchio for an authentic touch.
When you prepare an Aperitivo board, you’re embracing the Italian philosophy of enjoying simple, fresh, and seasonal ingredients— the hallmark of Italian cuisine. The Italian kitchen values quality over quantity, and an Aperitivo plate reflects that perfectly. Add olives, nuts, and even a few sun-dried tomatoes for a beautiful display that’s sure to impress your friends.
3. Setting the Scene
In Italy, Aperitivo is about ambiance as much as it is about taste. Light some candles, play classic Italian music in the background (think Dean Martin or modern Italian jazz), and set the table with elegant wine glasses and small plates. This way, your friends will truly feel as though they've been transported to Italy.
Travel Inspiration: Dreaming of Italy?
If reading this has you dreaming of Italy, consider joining one of our small group tours. Nada’s Italy takes pride in crafting unforgettable travel experiences, where you can truly immerse yourself in the local culture and cuisine. Our tours are designed for those who want to experience Italy like a local, with personalized itineraries, knowledgeable guides, and a focus on authentic Italian traditions like Aperitivo.
On a Nada's Italy tour, we not only take you to popular destinations but also uncover hidden gems that many tourists miss. Imagine sipping a Negroni in a hidden courtyard in Milan or enjoying a Spritz overlooking the Tuscan countryside at sunset. Traveling with us means seeing Italy through the eyes of locals and sharing in moments that capture the true essence of Italian life.
Share Your Aperitivo with Us!
While we wait for our next adventure in Italy, why not share your homemade Aperitivo with us? Tag @nadasitaly on Instagram or Facebook, and let us know how you're bringing a taste of Italy to your home. Whether it's your favorite cocktail or a story from your travels, we’d love to hear from you! And who knows? Maybe your Aperitivo setup will inspire others to bring a bit of Italian culture into their lives.