With Eurovision 2023 taking place in the UK, we thought it was only right that we help you plan your very own Eurovision watch party – inspired by our home country, Italy. For us, Eurovision is a dedicated time of year to commemorate culture, individuality and national pride, no matter how far we delve into the spectacle and drama of it all. The contest aims to bring out the best of talents and the best in each country (despite our inclination toward a little bit of healthy rivalry and competitiveness).
At Pasta Evangelists HQ we will, of course, be leaning into the Italian theme for this year’s song contest. Although we can’t force you to support our country of choice with the same vigour, Eurovision for us is all about the merging together of language, customs and traditions – we can say with certainty that we’ll be sharing our favourite Italian foods around the dinner table. For our top tips on how to host the ultimate party including what to eat on Eurovision night, read on below and get the inside track ahead of the big day.
Issue a mandatory costume invitation to all guests
Disregard any and all suggestions of 'dressing up if you feel like it'; this is not the moment to be casual. Eurovision, above all, requires a strict commitment to donning elaborate outfits – think Italian flag face paint and fancy dress. We’d also suggest transforming your living room, kitchen, or dining room to capture the international aesthetic of the evening. Some of our favourite ways to decorate are with flag garlands, balloons, and napkins representing each of the finalists. And of course, it wouldn't be a proper Italian Eurovision party without green, white, and red banners to represent your allegiance; it’ll feel like you’re watching from Rome itself.
Turn up the music
It goes without saying that a Eurovision party would be incomplete without some good music. To create the ultimate Eurovision playlist, why not draw inspiration from your guests' favourite artists and past winners? Don't forget to include the classics, such as ABBA's ‘Waterloo’, or recent hits like Maneskin’s ‘Zitti e Buoni’, which won the competition for Italy in 2021.
If you're looking to take your Eurovision party to the next level, consider renting a karaoke machine. It's the perfect way to get the complete Eurovision experience, allowing you and your guests to play a part. You could even organize a mock Eurovision contest, complete with scoring cards and a panel of judges. 12 points, please.
What to serve your guests
Aperitivo
In Italy, it is customary to have an aperitivo at the start of any kind of gathering. This pre-dinner ritual typically consists of a few drinks, antipasti and other light bites, known as stuzzichini, to whet the appetite for the main meal. But the aperitivo holds far greater significance than being merely an appetizer. It is a moment, a time-honored tradition observed by Italians for centuries, free from haste. For us, this cherished ritual is best enjoyed with good friends, making it the ideal prelude to a night full of Eurovision revelry.
To serve up a classic Italian aperitivo, why not offer your guests some spritzes or Negronis upon arrival?
Throw a pasta party
While we especially love exploring the cuisine of other countries on Eurovision night, our favourite food to indulge ourselves in is, undoubtedly, Italian. The ease and simple comfort of fresh pasta make it a firm favourite, especially when looking for something quick to share with friends. If you’re not much of a self-professed cook, there’s no reason to spend hours in the kitchen plating up various dishes – there are always ways that you could cheat with the ingredients (while still maintaining the veneer of a quintessential host).
Order a fresh pasta takeaway
Our own takeaway service is designed to bring restaurant-quality pasta to your door in as little as 15 minutes, so there’s truly no better way to get your pasta fix as soon as the craving sets in. Alongside a host of authentic pasta dishes, we’ve got your antipasti needs covered with our Italian charcuterie and cheese selections. And of course, our menu always features plenty of seasonal sides and decadent Italian desserts. Perfect for an evening spent in the company of friends.
Order a fresh pasta recipe kit
Yet, should you wish to become a chef for the evening, our restaurant-quality fresh pasta boxes can be delivered across the UK and then prepared at home in minutes – ideal for an authentic (but stress-free) Italian dinner party.
If you’re wondering which wine to pair your dish with, you can check out our wine pairing guide.
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