Zucchini Savory Pie: A Delightful Mediterranean-Inspired Treat
Introduction
If you’re in the mood for a comforting and savory pie that brings together the fresh flavors of summer, this Zucchini Savory Pie (Torta Salata di Zucchine) will be the perfect addition to your menu. A flaky, golden crust encases a rich filling made with tender zucchini, smoky pancetta, sharp Parmesan, and creamy scamorza, creating a balance of flavors that will delight your taste buds. This dish is perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a unique party appetizer. Serve it warm or at room temperature, and enjoy a bite of Mediterranean goodness!
Ingredients
This savory pie recipe calls for simple yet flavorful ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Here’s the full list, which will serve about six people:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Water | 130g |
| All-purpose flour (Farina 00) | 250g |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 30g |
| White wine vinegar | 15g |
| Salt | 6g |
| Thyme | To taste |
| Zucchini | 600g |
| Shallot (Scalogno) | 35g |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 20g |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Eggs | 220g |
| Scamorza cheese | 120g |
| Grated Parmigiano Reggiano DOP | 50g |
| Sweet pancetta | 160g |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 430 kcal |
| Protein | 16g |
| Carbohydrates | 38g |
| Fat | 28g |
| Saturated Fat | 9g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 6g |
| Sodium | 850mg |
| Cholesterol | 185mg |
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Pastry (Pasta Matta)
The first step in creating this savory pie is to prepare the pasta matta, a simple yet flavorful dough that will form the base and crust of the pie.
- Sift the flour: In a large mixing bowl, sift the all-purpose flour to remove any lumps and ensure a smooth texture.
- Add thyme and salt: Sprinkle in a generous amount of fresh thyme leaves (dried thyme can be used as well, but fresh will add a vibrant flavor) and the salt. These seasonings will give the dough a wonderful, herby aroma.
- Start mixing: Begin by adding the room-temperature water to the flour mixture, pouring it in gradually as you work it into the dough. Continue mixing with your hands or a spatula until the dough begins to come together.
- Incorporate the olive oil: Add the extra virgin olive oil to the dough and continue kneading it on a clean surface until it is smooth and elastic. You want the dough to absorb all the oil, which will give it a nice texture and a slight richness.
- Rest the dough: Wrap the dough ball in plastic wrap and let it rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This resting period allows the dough to relax, making it easier to roll out later.
Step 2: Preparing the Filling
While the dough is resting, you can focus on preparing the filling.
- Prepare the zucchini: Wash and trim the zucchini, cutting off both ends. Slice them into thin rounds, about 3-4 mm thick. This ensures that the zucchini cooks evenly in the pie and releases its moisture.
- Cook the shallot and pancetta: Heat 20 grams of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped shallot and sauté it for about 5 minutes, until soft and translucent. Then, add the pancetta, cut into small cubes, and cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the pancetta becomes slightly crispy and releases its flavorful oils.
- Add the zucchini: Add the zucchini slices to the pan, season with salt and pepper, and stir well to combine. Cover the pan and let everything cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The zucchini will release its moisture, which will cook off during this time.
- Cool the mixture: Once the zucchini and pancetta have cooked, remove the pan from the heat and let the mixture cool down to room temperature. This step is essential to prevent the filling from making the crust soggy.
Step 3: Assembling the Zucchini Savory Pie
Now that both the dough and the filling are ready, it’s time to assemble the pie!
- Roll out the dough: Take the rested dough and place it on a lightly floured surface. Use a rolling pin to roll the dough out into a circle, about 4 mm thick. Make sure the dough is large enough to cover the bottom and sides of a 28 cm pie dish or tart pan.
- Line the tart pan: Carefully roll the dough onto the rolling pin, then transfer it to the tart pan. Press it gently into the corners and along the sides of the pan, ensuring it fits snugly. Trim off any excess dough hanging over the edges.
- Prepare the egg mixture: In a separate bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them well. Season the eggs with salt and pepper, then stir in the grated Parmigiano Reggiano and cubed scamorza cheese. The cheese will melt beautifully into the eggs as the pie bakes, giving it a creamy texture.
- Combine the filling: Once the zucchini mixture has cooled, spoon it into the prepared pie crust. Spread it out evenly. Then, pour the egg and cheese mixture over the top, ensuring that everything is well-coated.
Step 4: Baking the Zucchini Savory Pie
- Bake the pie: Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F) and bake the pie in a static oven (no fan) for about 30 minutes. The crust should be golden and crisp, and the filling should be set and slightly puffed.
- Cool and serve: Once the pie is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the filling to firm up slightly, making it easier to slice.
Tips and Variations
- Dough variations: If you prefer a shortcut, you can use store-bought puff pastry or shortcrust pastry. However, the homemade pasta matta adds a rich, rustic flavor that complements the zucchini filling perfectly.
- Cheese options: While scamorza and Parmigiano Reggiano work wonderfully together, you can experiment with other cheeses such as mozzarella, ricotta, or Gruyère for different textures and flavors.
- Add herbs: If you love fresh herbs, try adding a handful of chopped basil or mint to the filling for an extra burst of flavor.
- Vegetarian version: Omit the pancetta to make the pie vegetarian-friendly. The zucchini and cheese filling will still be delicious and satisfying.
Serving Suggestions
This Zucchini Savory Pie is perfect for a variety of occasions, whether it’s a light lunch, a picnic, or a brunch gathering. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, drizzled with a simple lemon vinaigrette. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside roasted potatoes or a side of grilled vegetables. A glass of white wine or sparkling water would complement this dish beautifully.
Conclusion
This Zucchini Savory Pie is an ideal recipe for showcasing the versatility and fresh flavors of seasonal vegetables. With its golden, flaky crust and savory filling, it’s a crowd-pleasing dish that can be served year-round, whether for a special occasion or a casual meal. Make it for your next gathering, and it’s sure to impress! Enjoy every bite of this Mediterranean-inspired delight!
For more savory pie recipes, check out Love With Recipes for endless culinary inspiration!
