If you're planning a special event and are looking for one type of cuisine that will please the majority of your guests, you can't go wrong with Italian food. Take the party menu a step further and fill it with authentic Italian dishes found in high-end restaurants and bistros. 

Authentic Italian cuisine typically consists of homemade, rather than bottled, marinara, pesto and Alfredo sauces, handmade pastas of all types, and other fresh ingredients such as herbs and produce. While pizza is always appropriate party food, there are many other different types of Italian dishes that will please guests of all ages. 

Depending on the size of your event, your party-planning budget, and how much time you have to spend in the kitchen, you can either make the food yourself or have it catered by your favorite Italian eatery. Hiring a catering company that specializes in real Italian cuisine is another option.

 An Italian-inspired menu is appropriate for any type of special occasion, from formal affairs to casual get-togethers. Consider serving it at birthday and holiday parties, graduation and anniversary soirees, baby and bridal showers, and wedding receptions. 

Here are some authentic Italian food ideas to consider for your next celebration:

1. Caprese Salad

Start the meal off on a delicious note with Caprese salads made with basil leaves, sliced tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and Italian seasonings. You can either serve the salads individually plated or on a tray so that guests can help themselves. 

As a creative twist, serve the salads up on skewers using small fresh mozzarella balls and cherry or grape tomatoes.

2. Eggplant Parmesan 

Full of robust, fresh flavors, eggplant Parmesan will appeal to both the meat-eaters and vegetarians in the crowd. Start by frying up sliced eggplant and then it with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese. Bake until the cheese is golden brown, and serve over noodles if you'd like.

Other similar ideas include traditional or vegetarian lasagna or baked penne casseroles. You can serve any of these options buffet-style in large warming trays so that guests can help themselves to their favorite dishes. 

3. Gelato

Finish the meal on a sweet note with authentic Italian gelato. Gelato is very similar to ice cream but is known for its fuller, richer flavors. Some ideas include traditional pistachio, caramel swirl, tiramisu, hazelnut, coffee, chocolate, and panna cotta.

Serve up the frozen treats in elegant bowls or waffle or cake cones, depending on the type of event and if you have a lot of kids in attendance. 

For more information about authentic Italian food, contact a local business, like Villa Romana Italian Restaurant.