There’s nothing quite like an Italian-inspired evening—great food, lively conversation, and the warmth of family. Bring that La Dolce Vita charm right to your dining table with this complete Italian dinner party menu.
The Italian Night Menu
Appetizer: Bruschetta
Fresh, flavorful bruschetta piled high on crispy baguette slices makes the perfect start to your Italian night.
Ingredients:
- 5 ripe Roma tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 baguette, sliced
- Balsamic glaze for drizzling
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine diced tomatoes, basil, garlic, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir gently.
- Toast baguette slices at 400°F for 5–7 minutes until golden.
- Spoon tomato mixture onto toasted slices and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
Main Course: Baked Ziti
A cheesy, comforting baked pasta dish that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions and drain.
- Mix ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, and seasoning in a large bowl.
- Combine cooked pasta with marinara sauce and half the ricotta mixture.
- Layer half the pasta in a 9×13 dish, spread remaining ricotta, top with the rest of pasta.
- Top with remaining mozzarella and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until bubbly.
Main Course Option: Chicken Alfredo
A creamy, savory option for guests who crave a classic white sauce dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped parsley (optional garnish)
Instructions:
- Season and cook chicken until golden and done; slice into strips.
- Cook fettuccine, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
- In a pan, melt butter, sauté garlic, add cream, simmer gently.
- Stir in Parmesan until melted. Add pasta water if needed for thinning.
- Toss pasta with sauce and top with sliced chicken. Garnish with parsley.
Side Dish: Caesar Salad
Crisp, creamy, and refreshing — a perfect pairing with rich pastas.
Ingredients:
- 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup croutons
- Fresh cracked pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Wash and dry romaine lettuce thoroughly.
- Toss lettuce with dressing until evenly coated.
- Top with Parmesan, croutons, and cracked pepper. Serve chilled.
Dessert: Tiramisu
This easy tiramisu recipe brings the iconic Italian dessert to your table with minimal effort but maximum flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 package ladyfinger cookies
- 1 1/2 cups brewed espresso, cooled
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Cocoa powder for dusting
Instructions:
- Beat mascarpone, cream, sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
- Quickly dip ladyfingers in espresso and layer into a dish.
- Spread half the mascarpone mixture, then repeat layers.
- Dust with cocoa powder and chill at least 4 hours or overnight.
Dessert Option: Affogato
A simple but stunning Italian coffee dessert perfect for an easy finish to the night.
Ingredients:
- 2 scoops vanilla gelato
- 1 shot hot espresso
Instructions:
- Scoop gelato into a small dish or cup.
- Pour hot espresso directly over the gelato. Serve immediately.
Drinks: Italian Soda Mocktails
Colorful, fizzy, and refreshing — Italian sodas add a festive touch to the evening.
Ingredients:
- Ice cubes
- Flavored syrups (blood orange, peach, lemon, etc.)
- Club soda or sparkling water
- Fresh fruit for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Fill a glass with ice.
- Add 2–3 tablespoons flavored syrup.
- Top with sparkling water and stir gently.
- Garnish with fresh fruit if desired.
Ambiance & Decor Tips
Set the mood with Italian café music, soft lighting, red-checkered tablecloths, and rustic candle arrangements. Fresh basil or rosemary sprigs make simple yet beautiful centerpieces.