From Italy’s northernmost region of Trentino-Alto Adige to its southernmost tip of Sicily, succulent stone fruits sweeten Italy from May through September. In Liguria, Albicocca di Valleggia apricots offer a uniquely intense flavor that is unparalleled to any on the market, while velvety peaches grown on the slopes of Siciliy’s Sicani Mountains offer sweet and juicy fruits despite their late ripening in early autumn. Sweet and sour cherries abound in Veneto and Bologna, coloring cocktails, desserts, and salads with their crimson hues. Offering the irresistibly juicy, sweet, and tart tastes of summertime, we’ve compiled some of our favorite ways to incorporate the Italian treat into your summer menus.

KAREN AKUNOWICZ' PEACH PANZANELLA SALAD

Bringing the sun-sweetened flavors of summer together in a harmonious mixture of texture and elegance, Karen Akunowicz’ Peach and Panzanella Salad is one you’ll keep in your back pocket from here on out. Hearty enough to enjoy on its own, you can always pair this salad with some grilled chicken or poached salmon for a more complete meal.

STONE FRUIT & PROSCIUTTO SALAD 

A riff on the classic prosciutto e melone, this salad combines the salty qualities of cured prosciutto and sweet characteristics of juicy summer melon and trumps it with the inclusion of creamy burrata, velvety balsamic from Modena and bright basil. We’d recommend making more than you think you’ll need. Hitting all your taste buds, you’ll go back for seconds and maybe even thirds.

GRILLED PEACH WITH HONEY WHIPPED YOGURT

This simple and mouth watering dessert is the perfect way to wow your guests without the hassle (or clean-up) of baking. Each sweet and beautiful flavor stands out in this dish while simultaneously marrying for a creamy and light dessert.

BALSAMIC MACERATED CHERRIES

A perfect way to thrill your guests with limited effort, balsamic macerated cherries are riddled with beautifully complex flavor. Serve over ice cream, whipped yogurt, or grilled pork tenderloin for a show stopping dinner. 

CHOCOLATE CHERRY PIE

The combination of sweet cherries with bittersweet chocolate was a classic long before Ben & Jerry brought it into our hearts and homes. Using our brownie-like Double Chocolate Chunk Biscotti cookies as a base, you can use fresh or frozen, sweet or sour, or any combination to achieve this Cherry Garcia pie of your dreams.