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Petit Porcini

Unwind Like the French: Embrace l’Apéro

Published 4 months ago • 1 min read

In France, l’apéro is more than just a pre-dinner snack; it’s an important moment that signals the end of a busy day and the beginning of relaxation. It’s about slowing down, enjoying small bites, and sharing a moment with friends or family—no rush, no pressure, just the simple pleasure of chatting and unwinding.

For us, we typically mark it on Fridays to kick off the weekend.

As we transition from winter to spring (soon I hope!), there’s no better time to embrace this ritual if you don't already. And what better way to do so than with a delicious cake salé.

This Week’s Recipe Spotlight

French Savoury Cake 🍫

Light yet satisfying, this cake salé brings together cheese, ham, and herbs in a beautifully moist loaf. Serve it in thick slices alongside olives, nuts, or charcuterie for an effortless apéro spread. It’s the kind of recipe that invites you to sit back, take a deep breath, and truly enjoy the moment.

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Why you will love it!

  • Versatile: adapt it with what you have on hand!
  • Great for apéro-dinatoire.
  • Great recipe for picnic or potluck.

And sometimes, apéro extends into an apéro dînatoire—a more substantial spread that replaces dinner altogether.

Instead of a sit-down meal, the table is filled with an assortment of small bites: a mix of cheeses, charcuterie, dips, quiches, and, of course, a delicious cake salé. It’s relaxed, unfussy, and perfect for lingering over good food and conversation with friends.

Are you team classic apéro or apéro dînatoire?

Hit reply and tell me your favourite way to enjoy this French ritual! Wine? Cheese and bread?

Mél

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Petit Porcini

Mél

Come hang out in my French kitchen abroad!

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