Dattero

Although dates are not grown in Italy, they are often sold dried, especially at Christmas with nuts, figs and other preserved fruits. They are also eaten at other times of the year, both fresh and dried. The Ancient Romans were very fond of dates, consuming them among the exotic delicacies served during their famous banquets, but also using them to flavour meat dishes. Today they are used in pâtisserie, usually filled with marzipan, but also as part of Tuscan spicy breads like panforte.