Lifestyle

Hosting A Truly Italian Dinner Party

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For some of us, Italian is in our blood, it’s literally a part of our heritage. For others, it’s all about a way of life that we’ve come to admire. And how could we not? The Italian culture is almost dreamlike, and set to the beautiful, sprawling background of the Italian hills, towns and coasts, it’s no wonder that perhaps the best export to come out of Italy is its cuisine. However, it’s a toss-up. The incredible food is just one aspect of such a fine culture but it’s a part that you can easily emulate at home.

Italian cooking is simple, yet effective. Don’t be fooled, though. Whilst it’s seemingly easy to create, a lot of love and effort goes into making it! Here are our tips for hosting the perfect Italian dinner party.

Designing The Menu

The delights of Italian cuisine are in its richness and taste. Nothing is too indulgent. Be prepared to fully carb load! In traditional Italian style, there are several courses to be had, one after the other, but that doesn’t mean to say that you can’t include at least some lighter options! It’s imperative that you have at least some pasta, but this can be served as a starter rather than a heavy main course if you’d like. With pasta, the key to authenticity is in the sauce. The Italians know how to get the perfect balance between all of the different ingredients.

duckragu_diningDuck Ragu” (CC BY 2.0) by  AustinMatherne 

Pizza is also another choice, but if this takes away from some of the other flavour palettes you were going for, you could always make some delicious garlic bread Italian style (in the style of a pizza)!

Other options include gnocchi, meat – Italians have some delicious ways of marinating this, especially veal – or fish. The more the merrier!

Setting The Scene

The way that you set the mood is important, too. From the way your table looks to the atmosphere on the night, it’s important to get it right. Sadly, you probably can’t bring sunshine, and views overlooking the Mediterranean. However, you can create a beautiful centrepiece. Italian dining tables are of course the best option for this. They fit perfectly with the theme you’re trying to create, but they are also durable and long-lasting, too. You can take inspiration from a range such as those at Vivendo which offers tables in a variety of finishes, from wood and glass to colourful lacquers.

Sunrise at Favignana Island

Sunrise at Favignana Island, Sicily (Ita” (CC BY 2.0) by  Tommie Hansen 

Music is another fantastic way to set the scene, and the Italians are famous for their gorgeous style, particularly when it comes to opera. Or, you can always go with the classics – you know the one about the moon hitting your eye like a big pizza pie? Yep, everyone does.

Finally, Italians are famed for being very family orientated. Whether you’re hosting family or friends, the vibe has to be the same. Get some fine wines flowing and conversation to match and by the end of the night there’ll be nothing but laughter, joy and some very full stomachs!

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