The art of the Italian snack Stuzzichini

Stuzzichini, or Italian finger foods, get the eclectic treatment in this aspirational mixed-media cookbook by Italian food enthusiast and writer Ferrari. From crunchy bites to skewers, pastas, fritters, and sweets, this compilation of Italian snacks--typically those that accompany an evening aperitivo among friends--will enliven one's home entertainment repertoire. Amid traditional recipes for roasted chestnuts and chickpea flour farinata, there are many more that creatively fuse Italian traditions and flavors. Treats like girelle--puff pastry wheels wrapped around caramelized onion jam and hazelnuts--and crackers with anchovies, dark chocolate, and ricotta will make mouths water with unique blends of savory and sweet. Others, like farfalle chips with parmigiano cream, put pasta to use in a new way. Photos featuring strolls through narrow Italian streets are complemented by fun, illustrated insets like the one featuring the breads of Italy, from the fugassa of the Veneto to Sardinia's cracker-like pane carasau. Stuzzichini is sure to fuel Aperol spritz-infused daydreams and inspire Italian-themed "small plate" dinner parties with its unique recipes and alluring visuals.