Cherries have a short season in Italy, even in the temperate Mediterranean climate. Harvesting tends to begin in the south some time in May, following the warmth up the country until the end of the season in late June. Whether you prefer the sweet or sour variety, this collection of cherry recipes contains some fantastic inspiration for adding a dramatic burst of colour and pleasant tang to your dishes.

For an easy dessert recipe with a deceptively sophisticated depth of flavour try Grazia Soncini's Poached cherry recipe. Simmered in a spiced red win poaching syrup, the cherries are delicious served hot or cold and make a glorious topping for ice cream or yoghurt. The Cerea Brothers finish their innovative 'Fake mozzarella' dessert with a vivid dash of cherry sauce, while Daniele Usai perfectly demonstrates the savoury use of cherries, pairing sour cherries with seafood in his Braised octopus recipe.