If you follow along on Instagram, then you know we spent last night enjoying some tasty dishes, amazing cocktails and great company at the Mezzetta table. Who knew that a little peperoncini could be so versatile- and can transform such a variety of dishes into vibrant, zesty takes on classic favorites?

The night started with some amazing passed hors d'oeuvres incorporating the peperoncini- sliders, mini grilled cheeses and tuna tacos all spiced up with some briney-goodness. We toasted with yummy cocktails- a Mezzetta Caipirinha for me, a Mezzetta Strawberry Julep for him; and then dug into the amazing antipasto spread.

Our dinner was just as scrumptious- a choice of flank steak, branzino, or baked ziti- and was accompanied by a few words from the celebrity chef Michael Psilakis and Laura Vitale, host of Laura in the Kitchen.

It was an absolutely stunning evening; and while they had me at twinkle lights, the food stole the show. Scroll down to see more snaps of our al fresco dinner at the Mezzetta table.