Appetizers were not a traditional part of the Portuguese Meal

Small savory bites of Salgadinhos and the Petiscos were more likely to be enjoyed before a meal. Sometimes they are enjoyed as a snack with a glass of beer or wine or even as a light meal.

Cod Fritters (Pataniscas)
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Cod Fritters (Pataniscas)

Cod Fritters are known to the Portuguese as Iscas and pataniscas, and yet in the Azores, you might hear "tortas".  When I hear " Iscas", I think of my father's pan-fried thinly sliced and marinated calves and pork livers. Here, cod fritters…
Chouriço Bites

Chouriço Bites

Most often, tasty things like Chouriço Bites are simply made on the fly.  Just in time for your Easter dinner, chouriço bites are a very easy appetizer to start you off.  You can elaborate on it any way you wish. Just remember, less is more.   …
Fig Preserves
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Fig Preserves

Fig Preserves is perfect to serve as a starter on toast points or crackers with a spoon of soft goat cheese. This also works in filling puff pastry or filo dough to use as a snack or tidbit for a wine tasting menu. 3 pounds fresh figs,…
Quick Chickpea Salad
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Grilled Squid with Wine Vinaigrette

Grilled Squid with Wine Vinaigrette is refreshing with a tang of lemon. This is a simple and straight forward recipe to serve as an appetizer.  To make it a meal, increase the amounts of the ingredients .  Serve over rice or with polenta. If…
Quick Chickpea Salad
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Quick Chickpea Salad

Quick Chickpea Salad makes a perfect lunch any day of the week. It has simplicity in its flavor. This  salad has lots of lean protein to be enjoyed even when you are in a hurry and short on time for a more substantial lunch or even dinner.    …