‘ARE THEY REALLY ARRIVING IN HALF AN HOUR? I HAVEN'T A CLUE WHAT TO COOK! AND - IS THAT WHAT YOU'RE WEARING?’

Does this conversation ring a bell?

It's not always easy to find the time or the motivation (no need to feel guilty) to linger over a hot stove when your mother-in-law has already parked at the end of the street or when the new neighbours are knocking at your door, armed with a bunch of flowers.

But what if we told you that in 20 or 30 minutes flat you could have your guests’ mouths watering? Amici, we are going to share all our secrets with you: how to save the maximum time possible with 5 kitchen tools that cut corners for when you next cook for your friends – essential Italian equipment that you should always keep at hand; how to make your own limoncello alongside dessert for the coming weekend; how to set a stylish table; and 5 tips for choosing a splendid piece of Parmigiano that’s sure to steal the heart of your date.

We asked our chefs to share their favourite Italian recipes, all of which can be made in record time. Alberto extolled the virtues of the veggie carbonara cooked by his nonna; Virginia revealed her tricks for conjuring up a pizza from scratch in 28 minutes; Monia showed us how to make her famous chocolatey cheesecake, and Michele gave us tips on how to cook wonderful antipasti and still have time to spruce yourself up before your guests arrive. Put on some background music, uncork a bottle and get out the knives! Andiamo.