Soup is generally served as part of the primo course during a meal and there are a number of popular Italian soups eaten around the world, such as minestrone and pappa al pomodoro. Often packed with pasta, bread or beans, Italian soups tend to be substantial dishes in their own right making them fantastic options for a filling lunch or midweek supper. This collection of soup recipes from Italy's finest chefs runs the gamut, from elegant dinner party starters to healthy recipes for a quick lunch.

Antonio Carluccio shares his classic Minestrone recipe, while Cristina Bowerman's chowder combines shrimp and corn into a colourful, filling fish soup. There are some stunning cold soup recipes, too, which are perfect served as an elegant starter during the hotter months. Salvatore Elefante tops his Cold tomato soup with a salty, sophisticated mix of marinated anchovies and smoked cod, or try Fabrizio Marino's Healthy gazpacho for a vibrant vegetarian soup recipe, finished off with a garnish of fermented vegetables.