Light, Ready-to-Enjoy Specialities for the Summer Table
During the summer, we naturally turn to lighter, quicker meals that are easy to prepare and store. With rising temperatures, less time spent in the kitchen, and the relaxed pace of holidays, it’s time to rethink how we approach food. That’s where jarred preserves come in—such as vegetables in oil or vinegar, ready-made sauces, or preserved cheeses—offering a practical, dependable way to enjoy quality food without compromise.
Jar preservation is deeply rooted in Italian culinary tradition. Originally developed to extend the shelf life of surplus vegetables and cheeses, these techniques rely on sound physical and microbiological principles. When done properly, they ensure long-term stability, safety, and great flavour. Jar-filling, the use of oil as an oxygen barrier, pasteurisation, and the absence of chemical preservatives make these products ideal for anyone seeking both convenience and traceability—especially in the warmer months.
Artisan vegetables preserved in oil are among the most popular summer pantry staples. They’re loved not only for their long shelf life, but also for their versatility: perfect as starters, in cold salads, or to enrich sandwiches and light mains.
The process involves immersing ingredients in extra virgin olive oil, which acts as a natural barrier to oxygen and harmful microorganisms. Before jarring, ingredients are blanched or lightly cooked, dried, and pasteurised to guarantee microbiological safety.
When done with care, this technique preserves the food’s natural colour, texture, and aroma—without the need for artificial preservatives. And the oil is more than just a medium: it enhances taste and delivers nutrients, making each jar both flavourful and nutritionally rich.
Two Signature Preserves: Flavour, Craft, and PDO Quality
Among Gourm.it’s carefully curated selection are two standout specialities from Arrigoni Battista, an award-winning dairy and member of our consortium. Both feature a local treasure: Quartirolo Lombardo PDO, a raw cow’s milk cheese known for its firm texture and fresh, slightly tangy flavour.
Stuffed Chilli Peppers with Quartirolo Lombardo PDO in Oil
A ready-to-eat, gourmet appetiser where the bold heat of the peppers is balanced by the delicate creaminess of the cheese. The chillies are gently spicy, expertly filled with Quartirolo PDO, and preserved in sunflower oil with aromatic spices—ideal for antipasti platters or elegant snacking.
Quartirolo Lombardo PDO with Herbs in Oil
In this variant, the cheese is cubed and paired with fragrant herbs like oregano, thyme, and rosemary, then preserved in oil that softens the cheese while retaining its structure. Excellent in salads, cold pasta dishes, or on toasted bread, thanks to its fresh and savoury profile.
Both products are available in glass jars, ready to serve, and are a clear example of how PDO-certified ingredients can be elevated into convenient, high-quality options without sacrificing authenticity or traceability.
Preserved vegetables and cheeses are a valuable addition to any summer kitchen—light, safe, easy to use, and packed with gastronomic appeal. At Gourm.it, we work closely with trusted producers to bring together convenience and tradition, ensuring excellence in every jar.
📩 Get in touch with us to Discover the Quartirolo Lombardo PDO preserves by Arrigoni Battista, selected by Gourm.it