Italian dining is all about simplicity - some of the best dishes in Italy are made from just a handful of good quality ingredients.
When I’m hosting a dinner or lunch party I like to bring this same sense of simplicity into my table settings.
I’ve decorated this table to complement the Limonata flavour from Sanpellegrino’s new Classic Italian Taste range - the ideal treat for a lunch party. Whether you’re eating al fresco or battling a rainy British summertime indoors, here’s how to create the perfect Mediterranean-inspired 'tablescape.'
Stick to three colours
I don’t like too many colours and patterns on a table as I think it can make it look overdone. I recommend choosing three colours and sticking to them. I’ve chosen white, blue and yellow here to create a look inspired by the colours of the Mediterranean.
Layer up plates
Layering a chop plate under each dinner plate makes the table look instantly luxurious and professional.
Embrace white
I’ve laid out this setting on a marble table, but otherwise for a classic Italian look opt for a white tablecloth. White also helps to accentuate the colours of the food on each plate.
Try swapping flowers for lemons
A bowl of lemons on the table creates an instantly fresh, summery look. Another nice option is a glass bowl of cherries or some pineapples.
Glass tumblers are more relaxed than wine glasses
Italians often drink wine from glass tumblers rather than stemmed glasses. I think they're more relaxed - and they’re much easier to wash up!
Work with what you have
To save money on flowers, try adding things you already have in the house to your table, like a potted herb, a bundle of lavender or even a nice ceramic piece. If I’m cooking with scallops I like to save the shells and use them to hold salt, pepper or sauces.
Shop Nina's Table
San Pellegrino Limonata Classic Italian Taste
£4.39 | Ocado | Buy it now
Pols Potten Blue Stripes Vario Plates Set
£45 | Harvey Nichols | Buy it now
White Company Orford Glass Tumblers - Set of 4
£19.60 | The White Company | Buy it now
Royal Doulton Blue 1815 Serving Bowl
£33 | Dunelm | Buy it now
Granite Salt Pepper Pots with Wooden Spoons
£14 | Trouva | Buy it now
Arket Water Jug 19cm
£17 | Arket | Buy it now
Urchin Tea-Light - Set of 3
£38 | Houzz | Buy it now
The Sanpellegrino Classic Italian Taste range is a tribute to the brand’s Italian heritage, offering the unmistakable flavours of two indulgent classic sparkling fruit drinks of Italy – Aranciata and Limonata. The perfect refreshment bound to transform any moment into a celebration, the Sanpellegrino Classic Italian Taste range is available throughout the UK.
