In Italy, mid-August marks one of the country’s most beloved traditions: Ferragosto—a day steeped in history, celebration, and, most importantly, food. First established in 18 BCE by Emperor Augustus as Feriae Augusti (“Augustus’ rest”), the holiday was originally observed on August 1 to give laborers a well-earned pause after the harvest.

Centuries later, the Catholic Church shifted the date to August 15, merging it with the Feast of the Assumption of Mary to create one grand summer holiday. Traditionally, Ferragosto tables groaned under the weight of summer’s bounty—platters of roasted game, bowls of sun-ripened fruit, and recipes designed to celebrate the year’s most generous harvest.