contorno
/konˈtor.no/
The Italian word for side dish is contorno.
A contorno refers to a serving of food meant as an accompanying dish. In an Italian restaurant, a contorno is typically ordered separately from the secondo piatto (main course) and is not included in the price of the meat or fish. Popular side dish options include insalata (salad), patate arrosto (roasted potatoes) and verdure grigliate (grilled vegetables). While a contorno is a side dish, it is distinct from antipasti, which are appetizers served before the meal begins.
Meaning: serving of food meant as an accompanying dish (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The word contorno comes from the verb contornare, meaning 'to surround' or 'to go around', implying the dish surrounds the main course.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of contorno is contorni.
How do you pronounce it?
The word is pronounced /konˈtor.no/. It has three syllables, with the stress on the second syllable.
Did you know?
- The term contorno is used in Italian cinema and theater to describe 'supporting actors' who surround the lead performer.
- The word contorno is also used in Italian art and design to refer to the 'outline' or 'contour' of a drawing.
- In some regional Italian traditions, the contorno is served after the main course is finished rather than alongside it.
Examples in context
- Vorrei ordinare un contorno di patate.I would like to order a side dish of potatoes.
- Per il pranzo oggi ho preparato un'insalata come accompagnamento.For lunch today, I made a salad as a side dish.
- Lo sformatino di zucchine è ottimo come contorno.The zucchini sformatino is excellent as a side dish.
- Che contorni consigli?What side dishes do you recommend?
- Posso avere un po' di pane con il contorno?Can I have some bread with the side dish?
- Il contorno è incluso nel prezzo.The side dish is included in the price.
- Vorrei un contorno di verdure fresche.I would like a side dish of fresh vegetables.
- Quale contorno preferisci oggi?Which side dish do you prefer today?
Example conversation
Martina and Alessandro are ordering dinner at a restaurant.
- MartinaAlessandro, cosa prendi come contorno?Alessandro, what are you getting as a side dish?
- AlessandroVorrei un contorno di carote.I would like a side dish of carrots.
- MartinaOttima scelta, io prendo l'insalata.Great choice, I'll have the salad.
- AlessandroPerfetto, chiamiamo il cameriere.Perfect, let's call the waiter.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry contorno, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
