These days they are basically the same thing, served prior to a meal and with a varied selection of tasty appetisers. Mezze literally means 'appetiser' in Turkish and forms a regular part of the Mediterranean and the Middle Eastern cuisine. Mezze dishes vary by region, but include dips (hummus, baba ghanoush, tzatziki), meats, cheeses including feta, fruits and vegetables (artichokes, olives, figs, dates). Breads, such as pita, are usually a central piece on a mezze board. Antipasto is the first course of an Italian meal (meaning “before the meal”) and aims to stimulate the appetite with fresh and simple tasting items. Antipasto should offer a range of flavours and colours. This can include items such as grilled peppers and eggplant, marinated artichokes and tomatoes, plus breadsticks or crostini, cured meats such as prosciutto and salami, olives and various cheeses.