When Easter rolls around, there's nothing quite like indulging in traditional holiday recipes that bring family and friends together. One such dish that stands out is Pizza Rustica, an Italian meat pie that offers a unique and delicious twist on the Easter celebration. Similar to a quiche, this classic pie is commonly enjoyed on Good Friday to mark the end of Lent, making it a perfect addition to your Easter table.

Let's take a closer look at what makes Pizza Rustica so special and how you can create this mouth - watering treat in just a few simple steps.

The Origins of Pizza Rustica

Pizza Rustica has deep roots in Italian cuisine. It hails from the southern regions of Italy, where it was a staple during religious holidays. The combination of various meats, cheeses, and eggs in a flaky crust not only provides a rich and satisfying flavor but also has symbolic significance. The meats represent the abundance of life after the period of fasting during Lent, while the eggs and cheeses add a touch of decadence.

Ingredients You'll Need

To make a delicious Pizza Rustica, you'll need the following ingredients:

• For the crust: 2 1/2 cups all - purpose flour, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed, 1/4 - 1/2 cup ice water
• For the filling: 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed, 1/2 pound pancetta, diced, 1/2 pound mozzarella cheese, shredded, 1/2 pound ricotta cheese, 4 large eggs, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Preparing the Crust

Start by making the crust. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and stir until the dough comes together. Be careful not to over - mix. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Making the Filling

While the crust is chilling, it's time to prepare the filling. In a large skillet, cook the sweet Italian sausage and pancetta over medium - high heat until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat. In a large bowl, combine the cooked meats, shredded mozzarella, ricotta cheese, eggs, grated Parmesan, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Assembling the Pizza Rustica

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take the chilled dough out of the refrigerator and divide it into two parts. Roll out one part of the dough into a circle large enough to fit a 9 - inch pie plate. Place the rolled - out dough into the pie plate, pressing it gently into the bottom and up the sides. Pour the filling into the crust - lined pie plate. Roll out the second part of the dough and place it over the filling. Crimp the edges of the top and bottom crusts together to seal the pie.

Baking the Pie

Use a fork to poke a few holes in the top crust to allow steam to escape. Bake the Pizza Rustica in the preheated oven for about 45 - 50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set. You can check if the filling is set by inserting a toothpick into the center of the pie; if it comes out clean, the pie is ready.

Serving Suggestions

Once the Pizza Rustica is baked and cooled slightly, it's ready to be served. You can enjoy it warm or at room temperature. It makes a great main dish for an Easter lunch or dinner. Pair it with a fresh green salad and a glass of your favorite Italian wine for a complete and satisfying meal. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and enjoyed for the next few days.

In conclusion, Pizza Rustica is a wonderful Easter recipe that combines the flavors of Italy with the spirit of the holiday. By following these simple steps, you can create a classic Easter pie that will be a hit with your family and friends. So, this Easter, roll up your sleeves and give this delicious Pizza Rustica recipe a try!