Tuscany is simply one of the most beautiful places in Italy. Rolling, green hills dotted with Cypress trees and grapevines thrive under the sunshine-filled bright blue skies of the region. While it may be on your bucket list, you don’t have to wait to get there! By throwing a Tuscan-style dinner party, you can transport yourself, your family and your friends to the beautiful Italian countryside.
What to eat: There are some staples that are truly Tuscan. Start the meal with a Panzanella salad, made of cubed, stale bread, tomatoes and basil. Of course, feel free to add in other vegetables like cucumber and peppers, as it is intended to be served using leftovers. A drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of good sea salt finishes this off.
Another easy-to-prep app Tuscan style? Crostini! While chicken liver pâté drizzled with olive oil is the traditional Tuscan way (and an acquired taste), feel free to create yours with a variety of pâtés or vegetable spreads so that everyone has a little something to nibble on.
No Tuscan style party would be complete without Bistecca Alla Fiorentina — a 3-pound porterhouse steak that comes from the region’s Chianina cow. It’s crusted with salt and olive oil on the outside and then grilled. However, it is served rare and cooked only five minutes per side. But, if hosting guests, it may be a better move to divide the steak up and cook it to a variety of temperatures.
How to decorate: Rich gold, rustic olive, deep purple — these are the hues that seem to define Tuscany. Start your table with a soft neutral tablecloth or table runner, or add a little flair with a rustic Farmhouse look. And, of course, you’re going to want to create a casual atmosphere as any Italian dinner party should be. Our Solino Home Medium Weight Hemstitch collection is trimmed with a delicate needlepoint border, machine washable and made to bring a relaxed vibe to the table.
From there, it’s time to set the table! Choose a vivid, bold tableware color from Tuscany’s Earth tone palette and accent it with flatware that will make a statement. Floral arrangements in gold, green, purple will create a stunning centerpiece, or go authentic Tuscan with red poppies, wisteria and roses in every color.
