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Indulge in the savory delights of Italian cuisine with Pizza Rustica, a traditional Easter dish that’s as rich in flavor as it is in history. This delectable savory pie, also known as Easter Pie or Italian Easter Pie, features a hearty filling of cured meats, cheeses, and eggs encased in a flaky pastry crust. In this article, we’ll delve into the culinary heritage of Pizza Rustica and guide you through crafting this mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for Easter celebrations or any time you crave a taste of Italy. Get ready to savor the flavors of tradition with our delicious Pizza Rustica recipe that’s sure to become a beloved family favorite.

Pizza Rustica, with its combination of savory ingredients and buttery crust, is a beloved staple of Italian cuisine, particularly during the Easter season. This rustic pie is traditionally enjoyed on Easter Sunday as part of a festive feast, symbolizing the end of Lenten fasting with its indulgent flavors. The filling typically includes a medley of Italian cured meats such as prosciutto, salami, and pepperoni, along with a blend of cheeses like ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Eggs are also a key component, adding richness and texture to the filling. With each slice offering a tantalizing mix of flavors and textures, Pizza Rustica is a true celebration of Italy’s culinary heritage and a delicious addition to any holiday table.

Pizza Rustica

Pizza Rustica is one of our favorite Easter traditions. This double-crusted deep dish pizza is filled with various Italian meats like prosciutto, Capicola, ham, and Soppressata and cheese that is usually served on Good Friday. 

You will love how easy this pizza comes together, the hardest part is waiting for it to cool down so you can enjoy it! 

If your family loves pizza, be sure to try our Taco pizza or our garlic bread pizza that is both quick and easy to make! 

What Is The History Of Pizza Rustica

Pizza Rustica, also known as Easter Pie or Italian Easter Pie, has a rich culinary history dating back centuries in Italy. Its origins can be traced to the southern regions of Italy, particularly in Naples and Sicily, where it was traditionally prepared as part of Easter celebrations. The dish likely evolved from medieval-era customs of baking savory pies filled with a variety of ingredients to mark the end of Lenten fasting and celebrate the abundance of spring.

Originally, Pizza Rustica was a rustic, hearty pie made with simple ingredients that were readily available, making it a practical and satisfying dish for the Easter feast. It was often filled with a mixture of cured meats, cheeses, eggs, and sometimes vegetables, all encased in a sturdy pastry crust. The combination of these ingredients reflected the agricultural and culinary traditions of the region, with each family adding their own unique twist to the recipe.

Over time, Pizza Rustica became deeply ingrained in Italian culinary traditions, evolving into a cherished symbol of Easter festivities. It remains a beloved dish today, not only in Italy but also among Italian-American communities in the United States and around the world, where it continues to be prepared and enjoyed as a beloved Easter tradition. With its deep roots in Italian culture and its deliciously satisfying flavors, Pizza Rustica is a testament to the enduring appeal of traditional cuisine.

How to Make Pizza Rustica

• Preheat oven to 400 degrees
• Beat the eggs and put aside 1 TBSP to use for egg wash.  
• Add all ingredients to a large bowl and mix until combined. 

• Spread evenly into a pie crust.

• Lay the second pie crust on top and pinch the sides to seal. 

• Use a fork to pierce a few holes in the top pie crust for venting.
• Brush egg wash over the pie crust. 

• Bake for 1 hour.  

• Remove from the oven and allow to sit for a couple of hours to cool to room temperature.  
• Serve and enjoy!

Tips & Tricks

1. Choose Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality cured meats such as prosciutto, salami, and pancetta, along with a variety of flavorful cheeses like ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Fresh, flavorful ingredients will elevate the taste of your Pizza Rustica.
2. Prep Ingredients Ahead of Time: Prepare all the filling ingredients ahead of time, including chopping the meats and shredding the cheeses. This will make assembly easier and ensure that everything is evenly distributed throughout the pie.
3. Season the Filling: Don’t forget to season the filling with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you prefer. This will enhance the flavors and ensure that your Pizza Rustica is well-seasoned.
4. Use a Sturdy Dough: Opt for a sturdy pastry dough that can hold up to the hearty filling. A traditional Italian pie crust made with flour, eggs, and butter works well for Pizza Rustica.
5. Line the Pan with Dough: Line the baking pan with a portion of the dough, allowing it to hang over the edges. This will serve as both the bottom and sides of the crust, ensuring that the filling is contained.
6. Layer Ingredients Evenly: Layer the filling ingredients evenly in the crust, alternating between the meats, cheeses, and beaten eggs. This will help distribute the flavors throughout the pie.
7. Add a Decorative Top: Consider adding a lattice or braided crust on top of the Pizza Rustica for a decorative touch. Brushing the top with an egg wash will give it a golden, glossy finish.
8. Allow Time to Set: After baking, allow the Pizza Rustica to cool and set for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This will help the filling firm up and hold its shape when cut.

By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to making a delicious and authentic Pizza Rustica that’s sure to impress your friends and family!

FAQ’S

1. Can I make Pizza Rustica ahead of time? Yes, Pizza Rustica can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. It actually tastes better when made a day in advance, as it allows the flavors to meld together. Simply reheat it in the oven before serving.
2. Can I freeze Pizza Rustica? Yes, Pizza Rustica can be frozen for future enjoyment. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
3. Can I customize the filling of Pizza Rustica? Absolutely! Pizza Rustica is incredibly versatile, and you can customize the filling to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to add or substitute different meats, cheeses, and vegetables based on your liking.
4. What’s the best way to serve Pizza Rustica? Pizza Rustica can be served warm or at room temperature. It’s traditionally enjoyed as part of an Easter feast, but it’s delicious any time of year. Serve it as a main dish with a side salad or as part of a brunch spread.
5. How long does Pizza Rustica last? Pizza Rustica will keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container. Be sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving.
6. Can I make Pizza Rustica with a different type of crust? While a traditional pastry crust is commonly used for Pizza Rustica, you can experiment with different types of crusts, such as a biscuit crust or even a pizza dough crust. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.
7. Is Pizza Rustica served hot or cold? Pizza Rustica can be enjoyed either hot or cold, depending on personal preference. Some people prefer it warm, while others enjoy it at room temperature or even cold straight from the refrigerator.
8. Can I make Pizza Rustica without meat? Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of Pizza Rustica by omitting the meat and adding extra vegetables or cheese to the filling.

With these FAQs, you’ll be well-equipped to prepare and enjoy a delicious Pizza Rustica for any occasion!

Storage

Store your leftover pizza in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 5 days. 

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