It wouldn’t be an authentic aperitivo without the drink that put Italy’s version of happy hour on the map: the Aperol Spritz. The bitter-yet-refreshing citrusy flavour makes it the perfect drink to enjoy before dinner.

Seafood just tastes better at sundown, which is why this platter, loaded with lobster, prawns, scallops and squid, is a must-serve at your aperitivo.

You can thank Italy for the Aperol Spritz, but all credit goes to us for this slushie version: it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

A refreshing drink, your best mates and these chorizo and goat’s cheese blinis going around – can you blame us for embracing the la dolce vita lifestyle?

This cheat’s version of a classic Venetian cicchetti (bar snack) is the perfect salty and creamy starter to pair with an Aperol Spritz.

If you want to add your own personal touch to aperitivo hour, you can’t go past this fun and flirty raspberry and rosé twist on the classic spritz.

Bring some zing to your next 6pm drinks sesh with a plate of these mandarin and pickled chilli oysters.

Dip and sip in style with a recipe combo no one can resist. The punchy red pepper dip is a match made in heaven with the fizzy spritz.

Can you ever go wrong with a plate of sausage rolls? Watch these disappear before your eyes and you’ll know the answer is no.

Sriracha and honey make these chicken wings the perfect mixture of sweet and spicy.

Good things come in small, delicious packages if these gorgonzola and prosciutto figs with prawn and brioche toasties are anything to go by.

The best thing about these chicken rolls is you can eat them with one hand, leaving the other free for a drink.

Let guests DIY with this crostini. You’ll have one less job to do and they can be as greedy as they like!

Part dessert, part cocktail, is there a more perfect way to end aperitivo? We think not. This gallery is brought to you by Aperol Spritz.