a plated appetizer

An appetizer is a small portion of food, a starter, or a drink served before or at the beginning of a meal to stimulate the appetite for the main course. Appetizers are often small and shareable, featuring sweet or savory options like dips, olives, small salads, or mini-portions of hot or cold food. They are sometimes called hors d'oeuvres, starters, or antipasti, and can be a simple snack or a complex dish showcasing a chef's creativity.