Crunchy, fresh and invigorating, it's nearly impossible to think about cucumbers without instantly craving a bite of one. Brought to Italy in the 8th century, they quickly became a staple in Italian vegetable gardens. Shaved into salads, juiced into a cocktail, or pureed into a soup, there are endless possibilities for how to incorporate the cooling vegetable into your diet.

From Italy's northernmost region of Terntino-Alto Adige to its southernmost tip of Sicily, succulent stone fruits sweeten Italy from May through September. 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.

Sweet, savory and complex, balsamic macerated cherries have been missing from your world for too long. Dolloped over whipped yogurt for a simple dessert or ladled over a roasted beef tenderloin for a show-stopping dinner, there's no limit to how you can enjoy this quick and beautiful combination.

Whimsical and elegant, Italian dinner parties invoke the playful warmth of the Mediterranean. We've put together a guide to help you bring the experience straight into your home. From table scape to menu and wine pairings, transport your guests to the stunning cliffs of the Amalfi Coast.

Grated down and cooked into a silky sauce, zucchini is the shining star in this zucchini bucatini pasta recipe. Creamy, spicy, herbaceous and fresh, it is the perfect summer pasta dish to use up the bountiful zucchini in your garden.

We've collaborated with talented chef Karen Akunowicz to design an extra virgin olive oil just for her. Drizzled with her exclusive Chef's Blend olive oil, this recipe highlights the qualities of fresh and simple Italian ingredients.

Filled with the sweet acidity of our Original Passata, the tang of fresh alliums, and the body of high quality extra virgin olive oil, this gazpacho soup is quick and simple. Velvety smooth and balanced, we recommend serving this for your next Sunday lunch.

Bring the fresh and bright flavors of James Beard Award winning chef Karen Akunowicz home with her Peach and Tomato Panzanella Salad. Tossed with her exclusive Bona Furtuna Chef's Blend extra virgin olive oil, savor the nuance of her culinary finesse with every bite.