Savory Pumpkin Pie: A Hearty Fall Delight
The Savory Pumpkin Pie (Torta Salata di Zucca) is the perfect dish to celebrate the rich flavors of autumn. With its tender pumpkin filling, complemented by smoky scamorza cheese and aromatic rosemary, this savory pie offers a wonderful combination of textures and tastes that will captivate your taste buds. Whether you are hosting a cozy dinner or looking for a crowd-pleasing dish, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Puff pastry | 238g |
| Violina pumpkin (or any sweet pumpkin) | 600g |
| Smoked scamorza cheese | 160g |
| Eggs | 3 |
| Fresh liquid cream | 185g |
| Grana Padano DOP cheese | 50g |
| Pumpkin seeds | 25g |
| Fresh rosemary | 2 sprigs |
| Extra virgin olive oil | to taste |
| Salt | to taste |
| Black pepper | to taste |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~300 kcal |
| Protein | ~10g |
| Carbohydrates | ~30g |
| Fat | ~20g |
| Fiber | ~3g |
| Sugars | ~6g |
| Sodium | ~400mg |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin
Start by peeling the pumpkin. Use a sharp knife to remove the skin, and then cut the pumpkin into small cubes, approximately 2 cm in size. Place the pumpkin cubes into a large pan, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, and add finely chopped rosemary. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook over medium-high heat for about 15 minutes, stirring frequently to ensure the pumpkin softens and takes on a light caramelized color. Once the pumpkin is tender, remove it from the heat and set it aside to cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
While the pumpkin cools, cut the smoked scamorza cheese into small cubes. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until well combined. Add the fresh cream to the eggs, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Once the pumpkin mixture has cooled down, stir it into the egg and cream mixture. Add in the Grana Padano DOP cheese and mix everything together thoroughly.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Use a 22 cm round pie dish as your base, but be sure to roll the pastry so that it fits a dish that is 26 cm in diameter at the top. Line the dish with the puff pastry, making sure it covers the base and edges.
Step 4: Fill the Pie
Pour the pumpkin filling into the prepared pastry crust. Smooth it out evenly using a spatula, ensuring the filling is spread out to the edges. Sprinkle the pumpkin seeds over the top of the pie for an extra crunchy texture and an added touch of flavor.
Step 5: Bake the Pie
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) in static mode. Place the pie on the bottom rack of the oven and bake for around 60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling has set. Keep an eye on the pie towards the end of the cooking time, and if the edges of the pastry start to over-brown, cover them loosely with foil.
Step 6: Let it Rest
Once your savory pumpkin pie is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10-15 minutes. This resting period will help the filling set and make it easier to slice and serve.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve this delicious savory pumpkin pie warm or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a dollop of creamy yogurt for an extra layer of flavor. Perfect for dinner gatherings, family meals, or as a special treat during the fall and winter months.
With its savory flavors and satisfying texture, this Savory Pumpkin Pie is a crowd favorite that combines the comforting taste of roasted pumpkin with the richness of cheese and a hint of rosemary. It’s easy to prepare, visually stunning, and guaranteed to be a hit on any table. Enjoy this autumn-inspired recipe and share it with loved ones for a delightful meal.
