Pizza Rustica, also known as Italian Easter Pie, is a delicious and hearty pie filled with an assortment of cheeses, meats, and seasonings that guarantee an explosion of flavor in every bite. Made to celebrate the end of Lenten fasting, this traditional dish is perfect for your next Easter feast or simply enjoyed on any special occasion. Below is a time-tested recipe that will teach you how to make the best Pizza Rustica.

Ingredients:

For the crust:

– 3 cups all-purpose flour

– 1/4 cup granulated sugar

– 1 teaspoon kosher salt

– 3/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

– 3 large eggs

For the filling:

– 1 cup ricotta cheese

– 1 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese

– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese

– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 4 large eggs

– 1/2 pound prosciutto, thinly sliced and chopped

– 1/2 pound salami, thinly sliced and chopped

– 1/2 pound mortadella, thinly sliced and chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a deep-dish pie pan or springform pan.

2. Prepare the crust: In a food processor or large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Mix in the cold butter and blend until you have a coarse crumble. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Divide this mixture into two parts – one for the bottom crust and one for the top crust.

3. Roll out one half of the dough onto a lightly floured surface until it reaches roughly the size of your pan. Gently place the dough into the prepared pan, pressing it against the bottom and sides. If needed, trim any overhanging dough to make a clean edge.

4. Prepare the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, Pecorino Romano, mozzarella, parsley, salt, and pepper. Beat in the four eggs one at a time until well combined. Fold in the chopped prosciutto, salami, and mortadella.

5. Pour the filling into your prepared pie crust, smoothing out the top to create an even layer.

6. Roll out the remaining dough on your floured surface and place it over the filling as a top crust. Carefully trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to seal it fully.

7. Use a sharp knife to create several slits on top of the crust to allow steam to escape during baking.

8. Bake your Pizza Rustica for 45-50 minutes or until the crust turns golden brown and toothpick comes out clean when inserted into the center of the pie.

9. Remove from the oven and let it cool for 15 minutes before serving.

And there you have it – a delicious and hearty Italian Easter Pie that’s sure to impress! Serve it warm or at room temperature and enjoy this traditional classic at your next holiday gathering or special event.