Planning a dinner party in New York? Whether you’re in a cozy Brooklyn apartment or a Westchester backyard, bringing the warmth and flavor of Spain into your home is a guaranteed way to create an unforgettable night. With a thoughtfully curated menu and just the right atmosphere, your guests will feel transported to the Mediterranean coast—no passport required.
At Italica Olive Oil, we believe that food is more than just nourishment—it’s an experience, and extra virgin olive oil is at the heart of Mediterranean hospitality. Here’s your expert (yet easy-going) guide to throwing a Spanish-themed dinner party that even the most discerning foodie will love.
The Spirit of Spanish Entertaining
Spanish culture revolves around sharing: food, stories, laughter, and time. Meals aren’t rushed—they’re savored. Hosting a Spanish dinner means thinking less about formal courses and more about abundance, variety, and conviviality. Here’s how to infuse that spirit into your gathering:
- Share everything: Serve dishes family-style or as a tapas spread.
- Keep things vibrant: Bright colors, bold flavors, and warm hospitality go hand-in-hand.
- Use real ingredients: Extra virgin olive oil, fresh herbs, ripe vegetables, and high-quality proteins make all the difference.
A Spanish-Inspired Menu with New York Appeal
Our suggested dishes combine traditional Spanish flavor with a local twist, perfect for impressing guests without overwhelming you in the kitchen.
Tortilla Española – The Spanish Comfort Classic
This beloved potato-and-egg omelet is a true staple. The secret to a rich, golden tortilla is using a robust extra virgin olive oil like Italica Extra Virgin Olive Oil. EVOO enhances the earthy sweetness of caramelized onions and potatoes. Serve it at room temperature in wedges—it’s ideal for nibbling with a glass of Rioja.
Cold Soups – NYC Summer Favorite
In warmer months, a nice bowl of gazpacho is just as refreshing in Manhattan as it is in Madrid. Blend ripe tomatoes, cucumber, garlic, green peppers, and a generous drizzle of Italica Olive Oil for a silky, chilled soup. Serve in small glasses and you’ve got a fun and refreshing starter. What’s more, there’s a wide variety of Spanish soups you can serve to guests with fun and fruity twists, like this Strawberry Salmorejo recipe.
Peach, Mint & Serrano Salad
This vibrant salad feels extravagant, but it’s really quite simple. Toss fresh peaches, peppery arugula, spinach, shaved manchego, mint, and thin slices of Serrano ham with a bright vinaigrette made from Italica Extra Virgin Olive Oil and sherry vinegar. It’s light, flavorful, and perfect for summer evenings on a city rooftop or terrace. Alternatively, if you’re looking to get creative with your salad dressing, our Guide to Homemade Salad Dressings will provide you with plenty of inspiration.
Spanish Rice
Rice dishes are popular around the world and this is no different in Spain. But how do the Spanish approach rice dishes? Well, you’ve probably heard of paella, a versatile dish that can be made with meat, seafood, and easily adapted to cater to vegetarians. However, the truth is there are a wide variety of rice dishes within their culinary tradition that go beyond paella. This Spanish Rice with Olives is an easy place to start. Made with, garlic, red peppers, onions, and tasty Spanish olives, this dish is a showstopper—and well worth the effort.
Snacks and Appetizers that Hail from Spain
Want to nod to NYC’s love of small bites? Check out this Homemade Healthy Snacks Recipe. It’s a crowd-pleaser that blends Mediterranean ingredients with New York’s flair for elevated finger food. Made with anchovies, rosemary, thyme, garlic, capers, and topped with Italica Sliced Salad Olives with Pimiento, it’s a delicious spread that brings bread to life.
Wholesome Olive Oil Cake Recipe
For dessert, keep it elegant and light. This Orange and Olive Oil Cake, made with and a fruity Extra Virgin Olive Oil it’s sweet, slightly bitter, and totally unexpected—in the best way.
Setting the Scene – Spanish Style
Design your space to feel as festive as the food. Use bold table linens (reds and ochres are perfect), rustic wooden platters, and ceramic dishes for a warm, inviting table. Add string lights or candles for ambiance and consider playing Spanish guitar or flamenco playlists in the background—Paco de Lucía is always a favorite in our kitchen.
A Word on Cooking with Olive Oil
At Italica, we take our olive oil seriously. Our extra virgin olive oil is cold-pressed from hand-picked olives and packed with flavor and health benefits. It’s versatile enough to cook, finish, or even bake with—and it’s the key to turning good food into unforgettable food.
So whether you’re flipping a tortilla, blending gazpacho, or finishing your paella, reach for the oil that brings Mediterranean excellence to every dish.
Bring Spain to Your Table – No Passport Required
Hosting a Spanish-themed dinner in New York doesn’t require a perfect tapas bar setup. All it takes is great ingredients, warm hospitality, and a touch of culinary inspiration. With Italica Olive Oil at the heart of your menu, you’re already halfway to Spain.
¡Salud!
