October in Italy marks the heart of harvest season—a time when nature offers an incredible variety of fresh fruits and vegetables. The air cools down, the countryside glows in shades of gold and amber, and local markets overflow with seasonal produce. It’s a month that celebrates flavor, tradition, and the joy of cooking with what the land gives us.
The Flavors of October: What’s in Season
In Italy, October is a month of abundance. It’s when farmers harvest many of the ingredients that define traditional Mediterranean cuisine. You’ll find:
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Pumpkins (zucca) – sweet, creamy, and perfect for soups, risotto, and baked dishes.
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Mushrooms – especially porcini, loved for their earthy aroma.
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Truffles – prized treasures from the forests of central and northern Italy.
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Grapes and figs – still juicy and sweet as autumn begins.
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Apples, pears, and pomegranates – fruits that symbolize the new season.
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Cabbage, kale, and spinach – packed with nutrients and flavor.
These ingredients are not just delicious—they also tell the story of Italian tradition, where each region celebrates the harvest in its own unique way, turning simple produce into comforting, flavorful dishes.
Italian Simplicity: The Secret to Flavor
The beauty of Italian cooking lies in its simplicity. With fresh seasonal produce and high-quality olive oil, every dish becomes a celebration of natural flavor. That’s why Cortisana carefully selects the finest ingredients, capturing authentic Italian taste in every jar and bottle.
If you’re looking for a perfect fall dish that combines the sweetness of pumpkin with the rich, aromatic depth of truffles, this next recipe is for you.
Recipe: Creamy Pumpkin Risotto with Truffle Slices
A comforting dish that embodies autumn in Italy. The sweetness of pumpkin meets the earthy elegance of truffle—simple, elegant, unforgettable.
Ingredients (Serves 2):
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6 oz (170 g) Arborio rice
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1 cup (240 g) pumpkin purée or roasted pumpkin
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1 tbsp Cortisana Slices of Truffle in Extra Virgin Olive Oil
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3 cups (700 ml) vegetable broth
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1 small shallot, finely chopped
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2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
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2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional for vegan version)
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Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté the shallot until golden.
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Add the rice and toast for 1 minute.
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Stir in the pumpkin and start adding the hot broth, one ladle at a time, stirring constantly until the rice is creamy and al dente.
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Remove from heat and mix in Parmesan cheese (if using).
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Top with Cortisana Slices of Truffle in Extra Virgin Olive Oil and a drizzle of their infused oil for an aromatic finish.
Why Italian October Tastes So Special
What makes October so magical in Italy is the connection between land and table. Each ingredient is celebrated at its peak, creating dishes that are nourishing, vibrant, and full of soul. From a bowl of pumpkin risotto to a simple plate of roasted vegetables, every bite reflects the care of local farmers and centuries of culinary tradition.
Experience the flavors of Italian autumn with Cortisana’s authentic products, crafted to bring the warmth and simplicity of the Italian countryside straight to your kitchen.
Taste the season. Taste Italy.
Discover our Truffle Slices here