Italian Dinner Party: 15 Aesthetic and Healthy Dishes

(Source)

There's something magical about an Italian dinner party that brings people together through the love of tasty and healthy dishes, great company, and a touch of elegance.

Lately I’ve been consumed with coming up with effortless dinner party concepts that will allow me to easily create an elegant atmosphere. Whether for an impromptu date night or a girlfriends gathering, I want my layout to set the stage for an unforgettable evening, while not being overwhelming to setup or clean up.

After curating a lot of inspiration, I’ve landed on an array of delightful Italian-inspired dishes that will not only captivate guests with their visual appeal, but also nourish them with wholesome ingredients. A plus is that many of these dishes can be purchased from any gourmet food grocer. For a small dinner party, you don’t need to serve all of these dishes. Just a few of your favorites would suffice.

For my Italian dinner party, I’ve decided on an assortment of heavy hors d'oeuvres and finger foods that can fill guests up, so the main course can be light and easy to prepare. I also included a classic dinner party drink and a couple of simple sweets for dessert. You can peruse my ultimate dinner party guide for even more hosting tips and essentials.

Raw Oysters 

Start the evening on a luxurious note with raw oysters. These delicate and briny shellfish are not only a feast for the eyes but also a nutritional powerhouse. Packed with essential vitamins and minerals, raw oysters provide a light and refreshing beginning to your Italian dinner party. Serve them on a bed of ice with wedges of lemon for a visually stunning presentation. (Source)

Roasted Artichokes

Roasted artichokes can add both a burst of flavor and a pop of color to your dinner table. These delectable appetizers are not only aesthetic but also rich in antioxidants and fiber. Choose high-quality artichoke hearts, marinate them in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a delightful appetizer that will leave your guests wanting more. (Source)

Castelvetrano Olives

No Italian spread is complete without a bowl of green olives, and Castelvetrano olives are my favorites. These little orbs of goodness not only provide a visual feast with their lush color but also offer a healthy dose of monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. Pair them with a variety of cheeses for a simple yet elegant addition to your menu. (Source)

Heirloom Tomatoes 

Celebrate the diversity of colors and flavors with organic heirloom tomatoes. Arrange a colorful array of these tomatoes on a platter, drizzle them with olive oil and balsamic glaze, and sprinkle with fresh basil for a visually stunning dish. Heirloom tomatoes are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. (Source)

Kettle Chips 

Upgrade your traditional potato chips with kettle chips for a crunchy, savory, and visually appealing snack. Either consider this a cheat dish, or go for vegetable chips for an added burst of color and healthier option. These homemade (or store-bought) kettle chips can be served with a variety of dips, adding a touch of sophistication to your Italian feast. (Source)

Burrata Mozzarella 

Burrata mozzarella is the epitome of creamy indulgence. Serve this soft, luscious cheese on a platter with a drizzle of balsamic glaze, fresh basil, and a sprinkle of sea salt. The creamy interior of burrata paired with its delicate outer shell creates a beautiful and mouthwatering dish that is sure to be a hit with your guests.

Grilled Asparagus

For yet another easy, healthy, and pretty dish, consider grilled asparagus. The bright green color and smoky flavor make it a perfect addition to your Italian-inspired menu. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, and garnish with lemon zest for an elegant touch. (Source)

Prosciutto Crudo

Nothing elevates your antipasti platter like thinly sliced prosciutto. This Italian cured ham is an absolute staple with its delicate texture and salty flavor. Arrange the prosciutto on one of your loveliest platters with melon slices for a classic combination that is both pretty and palate-pleasing. (Source)

Golden Crostini

Offering another crunchy option for your antipasti, toasted baguettes are a must-have. Slice a baguette into thin rounds, toast them to perfection, and serve alongside your favorite dips and spreads. Whether paired with the marinated artichokes or whipped ricotta, these golden-hued toasts will add a delightful snack to your menu. (Source)

Concord Grapes 

Introduce a touch of sweetness with Concord grapes, or any grape variety of your choosing. I prefer dark purple grapes to stand out and spruce up the table’s color palette. Grapes offer a juicy and candy-like flavor that complements the savory elements of your menu. You can arrange them alongside cheese or set them out as an extra dessert option. (Source)

Whipped Ricotta 

Whipped ricotta is a delectable dish that adds a creamy and luxurious element to your Italian dinner party. Blend ricotta cheese with honey and a touch of vanilla to create a luscious spread that pairs well with your golden crostinis or kettle chips. The light and airy texture of whipped ricotta is sure to impress your guests. (Source)

Sturgeon Caviar 

For an extravagant touch, consider going all out and serving caviar. These delicate pearls of luxury will make your menu more opulent. I love spreading whipped ricotta on a kettle chip and then topping it with caviar. It’s such a scrumptious appetizer that will please your more discerning party guests. (Source)

Simple Pasta 

When you are ready to transition to the main course, choose an easy and classic Italian pasta. My go to is Aglio e Olio, a simple yet flavorful pasta dish featuring spaghetti tossed in olive oil, garlic, red pepper flakes, and parsley. The minimalistic approach to this dish highlights the beauty of its simplicity, while providing enough flavor and hardiness to satisfy your guests. (Source)

Lemon Gelato 

End the meal with a refreshing dessert served in a pretty bowl for presentation. The zesty and citrusy flavor of lemon gelato is a delightful way to cleanse the palate after your Italian meal. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and lemon zest for an extra touch of flair. (Source)

Brut Champagne 

Start and end the evening on a celebratory note by serving champagne. We love champagne so much we’ve even written a complete guide on it. The effervescence and crispness of a good brut will complement any of the aforementioned Italian dishes, while adding an element of glamour to your dinner party. Serve it during the entire party and toast to good food, great company, and a memorable evening. (Source)