There’s something magical about spring in Italy — when fresh greens, tender herbs, and sweet citrus fill the markets and the air feels full of new beginnings. Whether you’re dreaming of sun-soaked afternoons in Tuscany or simply want to bring a little la dolce vita to your home, a Spring in Italy dinner party is the perfect way to celebrate the season.
This menu is fresh, vibrant, and beautifully simple — featuring a crisp spring salad, handmade ricotta and spinach ravioli, and a classic Italian olive oil cake to finish. Whether you’re hosting a few close friends or planning a festive spring gathering, these recipes will transport your guests straight to an Italian countryside table.
🌸 The Menu
- Spring Salad with Seasonal Greens and Asparagus
- Handmade Ricotta and Spinach Ravioli with Mint Pea Sauce
- Italian Olive Oil Cake with Fresh Berries
Fresh Spring Salad with Seasonal Greens
Start your evening with a vibrant salad that feels like the first breath of spring. This salad combines peppery arugula, tender spring greens, shaved asparagus, crisp pear slices, and Parmesan shavings, all tossed in a bright lemon vinaigrette. It’s light, fresh, and sets the perfect tone for the courses to follow.
Optional Additions: Toasted pine nuts, fresh peas, or edible flowers for a little extra Italian flair.
Pair With: A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or a light Sauvignon Blanc.
Handmade Ricotta and Spinach Ravioli with Mint Pea Sauce
Nothing says Italian hospitality quite like handmade pasta. Making ravioli from scratch may sound intimidating, but with a little practice, it becomes a joyful, rewarding process — and your guests will definitely taste the love you put into it.
This version is filled with creamy ricotta and fresh spinach, then topped with a silky sauce made from sweet spring peas and a hint of mint. It’s a dish that balances rustic comfort with spring’s lively freshness.
Shortcuts: If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought fresh pasta sheets and focus on making the filling and sauce from scratch, or buy ricotta ravioli!
Make-Ahead Tip: The ravioli can be assembled the day before and refrigerated until ready to cook.
Italian Olive Oil Cake with Fresh Berries
End the evening with a classic Italian olive oil cake — tender, fragrant, and surprisingly light. Made with high-quality olive oil, fresh lemon zest, and just a touch of sweetness, this cake is the perfect understated dessert.
Top it with a scattering of fresh seasonal berries and a dusting of powdered sugar for a simple but elegant finish. It’s the kind of dessert that feels effortless but leaves a lasting impression.
Serving Tip: Pair each slice with a spoonful of lightly whipped cream or a drizzle of honey if desired.
🌿 Bringing the “Spring in Italy” Atmosphere to Life
Beyond the food, creating the right ambiance will help transport your guests straight to an Italian spring afternoon. Here are a few ideas to complete the vibe:
- Decorate your table with small bunches of fresh herbs like rosemary, sage, and thyme.
- Use lemons and olive branches as simple centerpieces.
- Play classic Italian music softly in the background — think Andrea Bocelli, Eros Ramazzotti, or instrumental mandolin playlists.
- Serve a crisp white wine or a light Prosecco as guests arrive.
Final Thoughts
Spring is a time for fresh starts, light flavors, and gathering around the table with the people you love. Hosting a Spring in Italy dinner party is all about capturing that spirit — simple, joyful, and full of life.
Whether you’re kneading pasta dough for the first time or slicing into a sun-kissed olive oil cake, these recipes will help you create an evening your guests will remember long after the last bite.
Buon appetito! 🇮🇹✨
Gather With Kate 
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