Tapas, antipasto, and meze are three of the most popular appetizers of Mediterranean cuisine, and they come with a long list of similarities. These starter meals are often bite-sized and presented in a similar way, but the main difference between the three is their origin.
Tapas
Tapas is one of the most popular dishes of Spanish cuisine, even though they enjoy great popularity in many countries of Latin America as well. They can be served both hot and cold, and the name can be applied to pretty much any small portion of different kinds of Spanish dishes.
Antipasto
Antipasto enjoys great popularity in Italy, and it’s traditionally served as the first course of a formal meal in this country. The list of ingredients typically served as a part of antipasto includes cured meats, various cheeses, anchovies, and olives.
Meze
Meze is another popular Mediterranean appetizer, predominantly served in parts of the Middle East and the Balkans. Many countries in Eastern Europe often serve meze with alcoholic beverages, so people can enjoy it while drinking and talking.
