Savory Pumpkin Croccantella: A Delicious Italian Pumpkin Pie
If you love the warmth of autumn flavors combined with the crispness of a savory, lightly crispy pastry, this Italian pumpkin croccantella is the perfect recipe to try. Inspired by rustic Italian cuisine, this dish features the delicate taste of zucca delica (a type of pumpkin) melded with a soft, golden crust, making it a comforting choice for both everyday meals and special occasions. With minimal ingredients and easy steps, this dish will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Recipe Overview
- Recipe Name: Savory Pumpkin Croccantella
- Category: Savory Pies
- Servings: 6
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Zucca delica (delica pumpkin) | 250g | Peeled and deseeded |
| All-purpose flour (Farina 00) | 250g | For the batter |
| Water | 300g | To combine with flour |
| Fine salt (Sale fino) | 2g | To taste |
| Fresh rosemary (Rosmarino) | To taste | For seasoning |
| Extra virgin olive oil (Olio extravergine d’oliva) | As needed | For greasing the pan and drizzling |
| All-purpose flour (Farina 00) | As needed | For dusting the pan |
| Cornmeal (Farina di mais) | As needed | To sprinkle on the surface |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin
Begin by preparing the pumpkin. Carefully peel the zucca delica and remove its seeds and stringy fibers. Cut it into small cubes or slices that will cook evenly.
Step 2: Make the Batter
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and water. Using a whisk, mix the ingredients together until you achieve a smooth, lump-free batter. Add the salt to the mixture and continue stirring to incorporate.
Step 3: Add the Pumpkin
Once your batter is smooth, fold in the prepared pumpkin pieces. If you prefer, you can also mash the pumpkin slightly to create a smoother texture, or leave it in chunks for a more rustic feel.
Step 4: Prepare the Baking Pan
Take a round baking dish or pie tin with a diameter of 28-30 cm (approximately 11-12 inches). Generously grease the pan with extra virgin olive oil and then dust it with flour to ensure that the croccantella does not stick. Tap out any excess flour to avoid clumping.
Step 5: Assemble the Croccantella
Pour the pumpkin batter into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle a light layer of cornmeal over the top for a subtle crunch and additional flavor. Drizzle a little olive oil over the surface to enhance the golden finish during baking.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Once your oven has reached the correct temperature, place the pan in the center and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the croccantella has a golden, crispy crust and the pumpkin is cooked through.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once the savory pumpkin croccantella is out of the oven, sprinkle some fresh rosemary on top for an aromatic touch. Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Enjoy Your Croccantella!
This savory pumpkin croccantella is the perfect balance of tender pumpkin and a crispy crust. Serve it as a starter, side dish, or even as a light main course. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or a glass of white wine.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~150 | Approximate, depending on ingredients |
| Protein | 3g | |
| Carbohydrates | 30g | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4g | |
| Fat | 3g | Includes olive oil and pumpkin |
| Sodium | 350mg |
This dish is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a great way to enjoy the seasonal flavors of pumpkin in a savory form. Perfect for fall and winter, the croccantella can also be made ahead of time and enjoyed for picnics, lunches, or family gatherings. Try it and share it with your loved ones!
