Italian American Dinner Party

Looking for a casual dinner party idea that will make you an entertaining hero without spending a lot and keeping stress at a minimum?  This Italian American Dinner Party menu doesn’t require any fancy ingredients.  It’s also a crowd-pleaser for kids and adults, alike.  I emphasize “American” because this is not authentic Italian cuisine.  It’s good ol’ American red sauce, mozzarella, and loads of garlic.

My Family’s Famous Caesar Salad

Rolled Pizza Lasagna

No-Bake Tirimisu Parfaits

I typically serve this dinner buffet style or family style, letting everyone load up their plates with as much salad and pasta as they like.  Other additions to this menu would be a simple garlic bread or an antipasti platter.  Then, after the dinner plates are cleared and everyone is settled into a cup of coffee, break out the tiramisu cups.  It’s a not-too-sweet, coffee flavored pick-me-up after a filling meal.

I had some friends over to share this meal and their kids weighed in with their official opinions.  Kids are honest afterall, right?  Catch the recap and their thoughts:

Italian American Dinner Party Ideas

As you saw in the video, I also got a little bit crafty, making some fun floral centerpieces.  Just find some Italian canned tomatoes at the store, use them in your sauce and then use the cans for potted plants and flowers:

Have some great tips for entertaining and hosting a dinner party that you’d like to share?  Leave me a comment and I’d love to give you credit for great ideas in an upcoming series.