Ahh, here we are again celebrating the love of food and, this week and next, the food of love. I recently read that Italy has taken top place as having the most romantic cuisine. Maybe it’s the beautiful pasta sauces, or the fragrant cheeses or the bold wines or liqueur-laced tiramisu. Or maybe it’s the spaghetti scene from “Lady and the Tramp.” No matter. Next week is Valentine’s Day, and I’d like you to consider the romantic aspects of antipasto.

The word antipasto comes from the Latin antus or “before” and pastus or “meal.” The plural is antipasti. Coined in the sixteenth century, it is the first course of traditional Italian meals. The fare is regional but usually includes olives, vegetables like artichoke hearts and peperoncini, cheeses, and cured meats. Variations include seafood, sausages, fruit, or pickled vegetables among other finger foods.

It is meant to be colorful and stimulate the appetite. If you’re making this a light meal for two, as I have, add two or three more slices of cheese and meat and some extra fruit. The one I’ve prepared for the photos has Fontanella and Romano cheeses, mozzarella wrapped in prosciutto, soppressata, mixed olives, roasted almonds and fresh raspberries. There is fresh, crusty bread on the side and, of course, wine.

There is no set recipe for antipasti, so it is simple to prepare and to display on a plate or platter. You can choose ingredients according to taste or region. And since this is Valentine’s Day, there are certain foods said to enhance the romance, too.

Olives, for instance. The Greeks believed they made men virile. They are full of antioxidants and good fats for healthy hearts, hormones and blood circulation, so that could very well be true.
Red hot chili peppers even sound sexy, but they get the reputation from stepping up “feel good” endorphin production, the heart rate and sweating, similar to symptoms of arousal.
The Aztecs thought of avocados as aphrodisiacs. They not only taste good, but the vitamin E keeps the body healthy.
To set the mood for love mix marjoram, mint, thyme and/or violet—herbs of Venus-- with basil and/or broom—herbs of Mars.
Apples were considered symbols of love by both the Greeks and Celts, in part because they keep so long after being picked from the tree.
Eating dark chocolate really creates a pleasurable feeling because it increases dopamine production.

Preparing food with love reflects in the meal. Is there any nicer way to show you care than by nourishing family and friends with beautiful food?

Check tomorrow's "Wine Pick" for a romantic wine to drink with antipasti. Or pasta, or pork chops.

Next week, dessert…