A la
In the style of
Al dente
Italian, used to describe how to cook pasta. It should just offer slight resistance to the bite
Amandine
Garnished with almonds
Antipasto
Food eaten before a main meal to stimulate the appetite
Apertif
A drink before a meal to stimulate the appetite
Aspic
Savoury jelly used for garnishing savoury dishes
au gratin
Coated with a sauce, sprinkled with breadcrumbs and grated cheese and browned under the grill. Example: Gratin di mare (mixed seafood)