An Italian snack is known as spuntino, a term which can include anything from olives and crisps to small plates shared between friends. Bars and cafés might serve spuntino in a similar way to tapas, and while they wouldn't be eaten as the opener to a larger meal elements of antipasto are commonly consumed as snacks.

This collection of Italian snack recipes is full of delicious ideas, whether you're looking to discover more traditional regional treats or simply spice up your tired picnic repertoire. Andrea Migliaccio's Potato zeppoline recipe offers a variation on a traditional Italian pastry, irresistible bitesized potato doughnuts deep fried until golden and rolled in sugar, while Daniele Usai's Milk bread is an easy bread roll recipe perfect for packing up in a picnic basket. The Costardi Brother's Purple carrots can be served as either snack or a side dish.