Apericena: The Elevated Aperitivo

What Is An Apericena?

To start, we’ll have to answer the question “what does apericena mean in Italian?” It’s a blend of the word aperitivo, which refers to a pre-dinner course consisting of light snacks and drinks, and cena, which means dinner. All that to say, an apericena is like an elevated aperitivo!

What is the difference between apericena and aperitivo?

During this delightful course, guests are served more food than they’d have at a typical aperitivo, but it’s still a lighter meal than a traditional dinner. Most often comprised of apps, snacks, and smaller portions of pasta dishes, apericena is definitely giving “girl dinner” vibes. 

How To Serve An Apericena

I’ve visited Italy a few times so I’ve been lucky enough to enjoy several apericene (the plural apericena), and there are three things that stood out to me! This meal consists of good food, delicious drinks, and quality time. 

To start with the food, apericena is often served buffet-style so people can curate their plates according to their preferences and hunger levels. I suggest going this route when you serve your guests too. You can make a variety of dishes and let everyone take a little bit of this, and a little bit of that. 

Next, cocktails are an essential component of this tradition, and thank goodness for that. I suggest offering a white and red wine, plus a signature cocktail. You can even make a big batch version of your favorite drink so you don’t have to mix up individual portions all night long. 

And arguably the most important part of an apericena: the people. Italian culture supports luxuriating over meals and laughing with loved ones. I suggest thoughtfully curating your invite list and seating chart to foster fun, meaningful conversations. 

Apericena Drink Recipes

Limoncello: Whether you want a big batch Limoncello Spritz or a regular-sized one, I’ve got you covered! Also, try a limoncello mule for something new.

Hugo Spritz: It’s a classic Italian drink for a reason! Try a big batch Hugo Spritz or a smaller portion.

Lambrusco: This sparkling red wine is one of my favorite summer (year-round, to be honest) drinks. Here’s all about Lambrusco, in case you aren’t familiar with it, and a bright Lambrusco Spritz recipe to get you started. Want to take it to the next level? Try a Lambrusco Pomegranate Spritz or Lambrusco Sangria.

Spritz Bianco: It’s a light, refreshing, and neutral. You can pair a Spritz Bianco with anything! Plus, here are plenty of other spritz recipes to try if you’re a big fan.

Margarita: But not a regular margarita, this is an Italian Margarita. Enjoy your favorite marg flavors with an Amalfi-inspired twist.

Aperol: The one, the only, the classic! I’m an Aperol enthusiast so I have suggestions on how to set up an aperol spritz bar, in addition to a delicious Frozen Aperol Spritz recipe. Want a fruitier option? This Frozen Strawberry Aperol Spritz is the way to go.

Apericena Food Recipes

Cheese, fresh fruit, citrus, and carbs. Talk about a dream!

• I could eat burrata every day for the rest of my life and not get tired of it. Try this Peach Burrata Salad for a fruity and fresh option, or Burrata Caprese with some fresh bread for a twist on the classic. 
• Want more fruit and cheese? Since the answer to that question is always yes, I recommend Prosciutto Melon Skewers. They are sweet, salty, and creamy all at once. 
• When I was in Italy, I fell in love with Fried Sage Leaves, so I learned how to make them! They’re a delicious snack to enjoy with your cocktail. 
• Marinated Olives are a super easy snack to make and you can set the bowl up with toothpicks so everyone can take a couple on the go. 
• If you’re a bread-lover like I am, try this Caprese Focaccia, or herby Olive Oil Dip with a fresh loaf. 
• Instead of a whole board, make Charcuterie Bites so everyone can grab a pre-portioned bit of their favorite flavors. 
• And of course, we can’t forget pasta! This Italian Pesto Pasta Salad is a yummy fresh dish and Creamy Lemon Pasta is mouthwateringly good.