A Few Simple Steps to Dining in Style

Italy has long embraced stylish dining as a way to relax and unwind after a long, busy day. Before you order out and eat in your living room as you watch television the next time, try the Italian way and whip up a meal that is a treat for the family.

Whether dining with family, alone, or with friends; turn an otherwise ordinary meal into a stylish experience with a few tips from “Ecco Domani” Italian wines.

* Décor is important. No matter where you are dining, the kitchen table or formal dining room, it is easy to add sizzle to the surroundings. Candles flickering and giving off a warm glow, and strands of tiny lights strategically placed around the room to give a low lighting effect are just two ways the area can be made more attractive.

* Mood music as background music can relax and calm. Quiet jazz can take the edge off of a stressful day and classical can help to lift your spirits. Consider what you are serving and who will be there before deciding on the choice of music. Tailor the music to the meal and guests. An Italian opera sets the mood for a nice homemade Italian meal.

If you are having company over to eat, ask them to bring their favorite CD. Shuffle the music so that everyone’s favorite selection is played while you dine.

* Create a simple, stylish menu. To keep you relaxed and stress free, prepare a simple meal. Fortunately, there are many delicious meals that are easy to make with fresh, great tasting ingredients. Add flair to the meal with simple touches like bright attractive garnishes.

Serving a nice tomato, mozzarella, and basil salad when an Italian meal is on the menu is a sure way to delight your guests. Drizzling olive oil on fish and chicken and adding a hint of lemon will make taste buds dance with pleasure. Dusting colorful veggies lightly with Italian seasoning brings out the food’s natural flavors and the taste will tease the palate. It really doesn’t take a gourmet cook to prepare an appealing meal.

Whatever the menu, select a wine that will compliment the meal. A great wine to serve with everyday meals is Ecco Domani’s 2003 Pinot Grigio. The wine’s fresh, crisp flavor is a great compliment to the light cuisine of today.

With the addition of just a few small touches, you can ramp up the ambiance of any setting. Taking the time to make every meal a special event by adding some pizzazz to it shouts “Style” to those dining with you.