In Tuscany, even the holidays start at the table. And if there’s one gesture that truly captures the spirit of togetherness in this region, it’s sharing a charcuterie board. Cured meats, crostini, cheeses and glasses being filled: that’s where every dinner, every toast, every celebration begins.
The Tuscan Charcuterie Board: Much More Than an Appetizer
All across the region, the Tuscan antipasto is a true statement of intent. Cured meats like finocchiona, salami and Tuscan prosciutto are paired with local cheeses—often aged pecorino—served with honey or house-made jams. To complete the board: warm crostini with chicken liver pâté, artisan pickled vegetables, Tuscan bread and perhaps a few olives.
Tuscan Crostini: Small, Rustic, Irresistible
Among the most typical starters, crostini are a permanent fixture. The most iconic are the crostini neri with chicken livers, slowly cooked with capers and anchovies until they become a rich, flavourful cream. But in more contemporary versions, you’ll also find seasonal vegetables, melted pecorino, black cabbage, lardo, or game pâté.
At Trattoria Dedo, we serve them hot, on slices of toasted bread just like tradition demands, with a rotating selection based on the season.
Each ingredient tells a story; each bite is a little journey through valleys, farming traditions, and bold flavors.
The Perfect Tuscan Appetizer for the Holidays
December is the perfect time to enjoy a Tuscan appetizer. Whether it’s a holiday dinner with friends, a long Sunday lunch, or a casual toast, the charcuterie board becomes the heart of the table.
In a season where we crave connection, starting with a dish made to share makes all the difference. It’s a way to break the ice, raise a glass, and savor the flavors of our land—simply and sincerely.
Where to Eat a Tuscan Appetizer in Florence
Right in the city centre, steps from San Lorenzo and the Mercato Centrale, Trattoria Dedo is the right place for anyone looking for a proper Tuscan appetizer.
On our menu you’ll find boards with salumi from the Casentino area, assorted crostini, pickled vegetables, selected cheeses and warm Tuscan bread. A simple, honest offering—designed to be shared.