In Conversation With Sophia Pelizzoli

Sophia Pelizzoli is a cook, ceramicist and table stylist who brings people together through beautiful, thoughtful hosting. On her Instagram @sophiapelizzoli, she shares her recipes, hand-painted ceramics and elegant tables that celebrate the art of gathering. We find out why food is a big part of bringing people together for Sophia.

I grew up in a household where food was both our language, and the way we gathered together as a family every day. Taking the time to cook a delicious meal - however simple - and come together round a table was non negotiable. I’ve taken this sentiment with me in life. It doesn’t have to be complicated - a simple lemon roast chicken or a bountiful bowl of tomato pasta will do - it’s just the thought that counts when it comes to bringing people together for a meal.  

To start we shared a burrata, basil, wild garlic and tomato salad. I love a cold starter: it’s so fuss free, and means you can maximise the time with your guests, as it can be prepared in advance of their arrival. In the summer the appeal of a refreshing salad like this is even greater. 

For mains we had a crab, tomato, lemon, chilli and parsley pasta. This is one of my favourite summer dishes, as it feels both luxurious and light. The richness of the crab is beautifully cut by the zesty lemon and spice of the chilli - it’s impossible to stop at one helping. Again, the sauce can be prepared in advance (if anything it’s better to do so, as it allows all the flavours to infuse for longer!), so is a great dish for hosting. 

For pudding, we had a no-churn lemon ice cream (again… minimal fuss), which I served in scooped-out lemon shells for a sense of occasion. 

For me, setting the mood with a beautiful table has become almost as important as the food itself. My mother was an illustrator and painter, so I grew up with a crayon/pencil/paint brush in my hand, and have loved creating things for as long as I can remember. 

When it came to incorporating this into hosting, I found my outlet in the form of plates. It started with a single set of 12 bird design dinner plates that I painted for my boyfriend, which then grew organically through word of mouth, as everyone who ate from them wanted a set of their own. I think the joyous colours and unique, hand-painted designs resonate with a lot of people, as they feel really personal on a table. 

Want to know more about Sophia's hand painted tableware, you can discover her collection at  www.sophiapelizzoli.com