Donatella Arpaia Launch Event AND Her New Martini Cocktail Recipe

Italy: the land of pizza, pasta, prosecco, Prada, and Jersey Shore? If that last one doesn’t throw you off, then it’s high time to be reminded of how stylish all things Italian can be. Celebrity Chef Donatella Arpaia is doing just that by partnering with iconic Italian spirits brand Martini to bring glamour back to dining and entertaining the Italian way.

The launch event celebrating her new role as Martini’s culinary and entertaining expert was held at Donatella’s DBar in Chelsea, chicly styled in all black and silver (the trendy foil to the opulent white and gold Donatella restaurant which is connected by a “secret” back door). Donatella, author of Donatella Cooks: Simple Food Made Glamorous (hyperlink to book affiliate) and a guest judge on Bravo’s “Top Chef” and Food Network’s “Iron Chef,” chose some of her Italian classics with a twist to serve at the party, like Arancini (rice balls) with orange zest and popcorn with truffle oil.

To bring some Italian taste to your next party, try this Donatella’s new signature cocktail recipe: It’s great for a Sunday Brunch or a BBQ (and it’s delicious!).

The Donatella
3 ounces MARTINI Prosecco
¾ ounces of GREY GOOSE
½ ounce of MARTINI Bianco
3 slices cucumber
1 leaves of basil
1 cherry tomato
½ ounce of lemon juice
½ ounce of simple syrup
Garnish: Campari Tomato

In a cocktail shaker place all ingredients. Muddle gently. Add ice and shake vigorously. Strain into a tall glass. Top with Prosecco. Add garnish.