PASQUALINA, THE TRADITIONAL ITALIAN SAVORY EASTER PIE

Easter falls on the first Sunday of April. ;) In Italy, Easter is deeply religious and doesn't feature as many festive activities as in other countries—there’s no egg hunt for kids or anything like that, just the tradition of buying a chocolate egg and eating colombe (a kind of sweet bread similar to brioche). A few people decorate Easter trees, but it’s quite rare; mostly, decorations are limited to painting eggs. Overall, everything revolves around eggs. And this pie is associated with Easter simply because... it has eggs. ;D

Pasqualina is a traditional Italian savory Easter pie that beautifully combines simple ingredients into a rich, flavorful dish. Originating from the Liguria region, it features a thin, flaky pastry crust encasing a filling of tender spinach or chard, ricotta cheese, and fresh herbs like parsley and mint. Whole eggs are often baked inside, adding a delightful surprise and creamy texture when sliced. This pie is seasoned with a touch of nutmeg and Parmesan cheese, balancing the freshness of the greens with savory richness. Pasqualina is a celebratory dish, symbolizing renewal and abundance during the Easter season. Served warm or at room temperature, it’s perfect for family gatherings and festive meals. Its light, flaky crust paired with a wholesome, flavorful filling makes Pasqualina a beloved Italian classic that captures the spirit of spring and tradition.

Did you know:
1. Eggs: Eggs are a versatile ingredient rich in high-quality protein, vitamins such as B12 and D, and minerals like selenium. They provide structure, moisture, and richness to dishes. Eggs act as binders in mixtures and contribute to leavening when whipped, helping create light and tender textures. Their fats enhance flavor and mouthfeel, while lecithin in egg yolks aids emulsification. Eggs also add color and nutritional value, making them a staple in both savory and sweet recipes. They complement ingredients like spinach, ricotta, and parmesan by balancing moisture and richness.

2. Spinach: Spinach is a leafy green vegetable packed with vitamins A, C, K, and folate, as well as minerals like iron and calcium. It is low in calories but rich in antioxidants and dietary fiber, supporting overall health and digestion. Spinach adds a fresh, slightly earthy flavor and vibrant green color to dishes. When cooked, it softens and blends well with creamy ingredients like ricotta. Its nutrients enhance the nutritional profile of recipes, especially when paired with protein-rich eggs and calcium-rich cheeses, making it a nutritious addition to many savory dishes.

3. Ricotta: Ricotta is a soft, creamy Italian cheese made from whey, known for its mild, slightly sweet flavor and smooth texture. It is rich in protein and calcium, and contains healthy fats. Ricotta adds moisture and creaminess to dishes, balancing stronger flavors like parmesan. It is commonly used in fillings, sauces, and baked dishes, providing a light but rich mouthfeel. Ricotta’s mild taste allows it to blend well with vegetables like spinach and enriches recipes nutritionally, contributing to a balanced texture and flavor profile in savory preparations.

4. Grated parmesan cheese: Grated parmesan cheese is a hard, aged Italian cheese with a strong, nutty, and savory flavor. It is rich in protein, calcium, and umami compounds that enhance the taste of dishes. Parmesan adds depth and saltiness, boosting the overall flavor profile when sprinkled over or mixed into recipes. Its granular texture melts slightly when heated, contributing to creamy and cheesy textures. Parmesan complements ingredients like ricotta and spinach by providing contrast in flavor intensity, enriching dishes with complexity and a savory finish.

Weightwatchers (Opt for losing weight):
To make Pasqualina lighter for Weight Watchers, focus on reducing cheese and using low-fat ricotta to lower fat content without losing creaminess. Keep the boiled eggs as they add protein but consider using fewer whole eggs and more egg whites to cut cholesterol and calories. Use fresh spinach liberally for fiber and volume, which helps with fullness. Use a thinner layer of brise pastry or substitute part of it with a whole wheat or lighter dough to reduce refined carbs and calories. Adjust salt minimally to keep flavor but watch sodium intake for better health.