I wrote in my first book, From Tapas to Meze: "First courses are meant to stimulate the appetite, not satiate it. The host often prepares them ahead of time to avoid being trapped in the kitchen and missing all the fun." This is so true! I also love to entertain by making an entire meal out of small plates, so my guests get to taste a variety of different flavors, inspired by one country or perhaps the entire Mediterranean! Here is a collection of delicious first courses.