Italian Easter Pie: A Savory Tradition with Irresistible Taste
Italian Easter Pie, also known as “Pizza Rustica,” is a delectable savory pie traditionally served during Easter in Italy. This hearty dish combines the richness of cheeses, the freshness of spinach, and the flakiness of puff pastry, making it a perfect addition to your Easter feast. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of creating this mouthwatering Italian Easter Pie.
Ingredients
Before diving into the step-by-step instructions, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious Italian Easter Pie:
| Ingredients | Description |
|---|---|
| 2 tbsp (30 ml) Olive Oil | Used for sautéing onions and spinach. |
| 1/2 Onion | Provides a subtle onion flavor. |
| 16 oz. (450 g) Fresh Baby Spinach | Adds a vibrant green color and earthy taste. |
| 1 cup (250 g) Ricotta Cheese | Creates a creamy and cheesy filling. |
| 2 tbsp (10 g) Grated Parmesan Cheese | Enhances the cheese flavor. |
| 4 large eggs | Bind the ingredients together. |
| Puff Pastry 30 x 30 cm (12 x 12″) square | Forms the delicious pastry crust. |
| 22 cm (8 3/4″) diameter circle | Used as the pie’s top crust. |
| 1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp milk for egg wash | Gives the pie a golden, shiny finish. |
| Salt and Pepper to taste | Season to your preference. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s get started with the step-by-step instructions on how to make Italian Easter Pie:
1. Preparing the Filling
- Sautéing the Onions and Spinach: Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add half of a finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent. Once the onion is cooked, add 16 ounces of fresh baby spinach to the pan.
- Mixing Cheeses: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of ricotta cheese and 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese. Add the sautéed spinach and onion mixture to the bowl and mix everything together thoroughly. Beat 4 large eggs in a separate bowl and then add them to the cheese and spinach mixture. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined.
2. Assembling the Pie
- Prepping the Puff Pastry: Roll out a 30 x 30 cm (12 x 12″) square of puff pastry and line an 8 3/4″ diameter cake pan with it, leaving excess pastry hanging over the edges. Pour the prepared filling into the puff pastry-lined cake pan, spreading it evenly.
- Adding the Top Crust: Place a 22 cm (8 3/4″) diameter circle of puff pastry on top of the filling to create the pie’s lid. Seal the edges by pressing them together. In a small bowl, combine 1 egg yolk and 1 tablespoon of milk. Brush this mixture over the top of the pie for a beautiful golden finish.
3. Baking and Serving
- Baking: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) while you assemble the pie. Place the assembled Italian Easter Pie in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning.
- Enjoy: Allow the pie to cool for a few minutes before slicing. It’s delicious served warm or at room temperature. Slice your Italian Easter Pie into wedges and savor the delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Italian Savory Easter Pie / Pasqualina
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh baby spinach? A: Yes, you can substitute frozen spinach for fresh. Just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before using.
Q: Can I make the Italian Easter Pie ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can prepare the pie a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it before serving.
Q: What can I serve with Italian Easter Pie? A: It pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze any leftover slices for later enjoyment. Just make sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Q: Can I add other ingredients like ham or sausage to the filling? A: Of course! Feel free to customize the filling to your liking by adding your favorite ingredients.
Q: Is this pie suitable for vegetarians? A: Yes, it is. This Italian Easter Pie is a vegetarian delight.
Now that you’ve learned how to make Italian Easter Pie, you’re well-equipped to create this delectable dish for your Easter celebration. Whether you serve it as the main course or as part of a festive spread, this savory pie is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy your culinary adventure, and buon appetito!
