Starting the Meal: An Antipasto Misto

Fresh artichokes are standard fare during the winter in Italy, playing an important role in pasta sauces, and are also nice as either the main course (stuffed, usually), or a side dish.

Carciofi Sott'Olio, artichokes packed in oil, are instead popular year round, and are among the standard elements of an antipasto misto. They're also nice on pizza, either in conjunction with ham, or in a Quattro Stagioni, a pizza with ham, artichoke hearts, prosciutto, mushrooms, and olives.

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