There's something incredibly special and enjoyable about coming together with family, friends and loved ones over a delicious meal. And what better time to do just that than during Thanksgiving, when we celebrate all that we're thankful for and tuck into thoughtfully prepared homecooking.

While we always love the tradition of the turkey dinner, it can be a bit tired. That's where appetizers come into play. Serving some enticing amuse-bouche can be a great way to wow your guests with an elevated and creative experience.

Each of these fall-themed recipes is inspired by Italy's Festival of Thanks. They feature genuine Italian products that are certified PDO (Protected Designation of Origin), so you know you'll be able to taste the true flavours of Italy in every bite.

Authentic and incomparably delicious, Prosciutto di Parma, Prosciutto di San Daniele and Grana Padano cheese each capture the rich history and flavours of their region of origin. For years, these Icons of European Taste have been bringing the flavours of Italy to Canadians. Try Prosciutto di Parma, Prosciutto di San Daniele and Grana Padano cheese in these beautiful fall appetizers that celebrate the Italian way of life.

When you choose Prosciutto di Parma, Prosciutto di San Daniele and Grana Padano cheese, you'll enjoy quality, natural foods that are never mass-produced or processed. Each of these PDO designated ingredients can only be made in their specific region of origin, using traditional techniques that have set the standard of culinary excellence for generations.

Home to the world's best and finest air-cured prosciutto, Italy's Prosciutto di Parma and Prosciutto di San Daniele have subtly different flavours and vary in appearance. Each one captures the terroir and the climate of the region where it originates, giving it a unique and authentic flavour. Try both of these delicious, 100 per cent all-natural cured hams to decide which one you prefer. 

Produced in the San Daniele del Friuli region, north of Venice, Prosciutto di San Daniele is dry cured for at least 13 months. It's 100 per cent natural, with a delicate taste, and it's so tender that it melts in your mouth. Meanwhile, Prosciutto di Parma originates in the Parma region. Gluten-free and free of preservatives, additives and hormones, Prosciutto di Parma is made with just four ingredients: pork, sea salt, air and time.

Made with partially skimmed raw cow's milk in the Pianura Padana (Po River Valley) in Northern Italy, Grana Padano is a lactose-free cheese. It contains unique nutritional qualities like proteins, vitamins and mineral salts – especially calcium. Known for being Italy's most popular grating cheese, "Grana" actually means "hard grating cheese" while "Padano" refers to the region where it originates.

When you're shopping for these authentic Italian ingredients, look for the PDO seal and logos on the packaging or promotional materials so you know that you're getting the real thing. When you buy pre-sliced Prosciutto di Parma, look out for the large black triangle with the gold Parma Crown in the upper left corner of the package.

For the full recipes to make these delicious fall themed appetizers and to learn more about these icons of European taste visit, iconsofeuropeantaste.eu

The content of this promotion campaign represents the views of the author only and is his/her sole responsibility.The European Commission and the Consumers, Health, Agriculture and Food Executive Agency (CHAFEA) do not accept any responsibility for any use that may be made of the information it contains.