There is no doubt that Italian cuisine is the epitome of romance loved by many worldwide. Deciding on your Italian wedding menu is exciting but can quickly become overwhelming with all the choices. When planning your wedding day, there are endless options to providing your loved ones with a gastronomic experience they will never forget.
‘ Italian food is a way of life with an outstanding regional variety.
Here are some of my top tips when planning your perfect Italian wedding day menu.
Antipasti – Aperitivo
Traditionally, Italians eat antipasti – meaning ‘before the meal’ – before delving into the first course. There are hundreds of Italian antipasti recipes ideally suited for any Italian wedding menu. Antipasti is a selection of cured meats, such as prosciutto, guanciale, speck, paired with Italian cheeses like pecorino, mozzarella, or parmesan. Additionally, you may consider including bruschetta, garlic toasted bread topped with tomatoes and basil.
‘ Each region of Italy has its very own signature flavour.
Eating local cuisine on your wedding day is highly recommended; you will taste the freshest produce plated simply. Antipasti are best paired with a light-bodied, vibrant, highly aromatic and crisp Prosecco.
Italian Wedding Menu – Primi
A Primi Piatti – first course is followed by Aperitivo
This is your first platted course; you and your guests will be moved to the reception seating under romantic string lighting, in the grand hall or in an open tent.
This part of your Italian wedding menu is a pasta dish. Italy boasts a variety of textures, shapes and sauces to compliment an experience to remember.
The options are endless; the most popular choices are pairing two different dishes. Perhaps a local risotto or tortellini, paired with a fresh handmade sauce.
Whichever combination you choose, you can expect to be amazed.
Italian Wedding Menu – Secondi
A Secondi – The main course
The secondi is a third course on the Italian wedding menu and the centerpiece of every Italian meal.
This main course typically serves beef, pork, chicken or fish with a contorni – side dish, such as sautéed garden vegetables to accompany your meal.
A good idea would be to give your guests meat-based or vegetarian-based meals.
There will be recommendations for a local Vino Bianco (white wine) with your chicken or fish or a classic Vino Rosso (red wine) with pasta and red meats to accompany your Italian wedding menu.
La dolce vita on your Italian wedding menu
Dolci – The sweet course
After eating your way through some of the most sensational produce designed for a gastronomic experience, this last course adds a layer of luxury in its simplest form.
From a traditional Millefoglie through to Panna Cotta with fresh berries, a homemade tiramisu or Italian ice cream known as gelato to help your guests cool off in the heat.
Paired with a regional sweet wine to get you ready to dance the night away.
Your options are endless with guidance from your chef and wedding planner to create a bespoke menu.
If you are looking for support with planning your Italian wedding and guidance with composing a complimentary gastronomical feast to celebrate the beginning of happily ever after, get in touch to see how I can help bring your dream day to life.
