Question: I am looking for the proper way to translate the French expression "Hors d'oeuvres" in Italian. In French hors d'oeuvres is not the same thing as appetizers.
Answer: Hi Nicolina,
The most proper way to translate "hors d'oeuvres" in Italian is not appetizer, but more likely Italian starters.
You're right - appetizer is not the same as an antipasto plate, as this one is the very first course, coming before the first dish (usually pasta or risotto).
Italian appetizers may be olives, cheese, some bread, sausages and so on. It is usually eaten with some Italian drink in a bar or precedes a traditional meal, but before seating on the table.
Italian starters are served as first course, in a small plate that is already on the table, placed on the other two plates (one for the first dish and one for the second).
Typical Italian starters are: raw ham with melon (like the photo), Caprese salad (mozzarella, tomatoes, basil and extra virgin olive oil), cured meats with olives and cheese, seafood salad amongst others.
