How to Enjoy Mezes from Italy’s Most Famous Regions

Italy is synonymous with exquisite cuisine, and when it comes to enjoying mezes, each region offers its unique flavors and specialties. Mezes, or small plates, allow food lovers to sample a variety of dishes, making them ideal for communal dining. Here’s how to savor these delightful bites from Italy’s most famous regions.

Tuscany
In Tuscany, start your meze experience with a platter of crostini, thinly sliced toasted bread topped with various spreads. One popular choice is crostini di fegatini, which features a chicken liver pâté mixed with aromatic herbs. Pair this with a glass of Chianti for a true taste of the region. Another must-try is pici, handmade pasta served with garlic and olive oil, perfect for sharing and enjoying with friends.

Campania
Next, head to Campania, home to Naples and the famous Amalfi Coast. Here, you cannot miss bruschetta al pomodoro, fresh bread topped with ripe tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Complement this with fritto misto, a mix of fried seafood, which is an excellent addition to any meze spread. Don’t forget to pair your mezes with a glass of local white wine, like Falanghina, to enhance the flavors.

Sicily
Moving on to Sicily, the island offers a plethora of meze choices that reflect its rich history. Arancini, or fried rice balls stuffed with ragù or cheese, are a must-try. Pair these with pane cunzato, a traditional bread seasoned with olive oil, tomatoes, and anchovies. To complete your Sicilian meze experience, indulge in a sweet treat like cannoli filled with sweet ricotta.

Emilia-Romagna
In Emilia-Romagna, known for its culinary richness, focus on charcuterie. A board featuring prosciutto di Parma and salame felino is an essential part of the meze. Accompany these meats with some parmigiano reggiano cheese and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar for an authentic taste. Don’t forget to enjoy this with a glass of local Lambrusco, which pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the mezes.

Puglia
Puglia’s mezes are often based around fresh vegetables and seafood. Try cicoria ripassata, sautéed greens, and orecchiette, small pasta typically served with cime di rapa, or turnip tops. A platter of cozze ripiene (stuffed mussels) is also a delightful addition, showcasing the coastal flavors of this region. Pair these dishes with a crisp Negroamaro for the perfect pairing.

Veneto
Finally, in the Veneto region, particularly in Venice, enjoy the famous cicheti, Venetian tapas that range from polpette (meatballs) to various seafood dishes. Take a stroll through local bacari (wine bars) to discover a variety of small plates, and enjoy them with a refreshing Prosecco or Spritz. This lively atmosphere enhances the communal experience of enjoying mezes.

Regardless of the region you choose, the key to enjoying Italian mezes lies in sampling diverse flavors and sharing plates with friends and family. This communal dining experience, coupled with local wines and the rich tapestry of Italy’s culinary landscape, is sure to leave a lasting impression.