Italian Torte
Italian torte features a buttery, flaky crust filled with a variety of sweet or savory fillings. Italy, with its diverse regional cuisines, boasts a rich tapestry of torte traditions. Each region has its own specialties, reflecting local ingredients and culinary history.
The word ‘torte’ might conjure images of decadent, layered cakes, but in Italy, it encompasses a far wider spectrum, including savory masterpieces that are just as delicious and versatile. Italian savory torte, also known as ‘torta salata,’ are essentially savory pies or quiches, boasting a crust that encases a medley of seasonal ingredients, bursting with flavor.
These savory delights are found across the country, each region adding its own unique twist. The classic ‘Torta Pasqualina’ from Liguria, for instance, features a delicate pastry crust filled with ricotta cheese, spinach, and hard-boiled eggs, a testament to the region’s love for fresh, seasonal ingredients. In Tuscany, ‘Torta di Spinaci’ shines with its creamy filling of spinach, ricotta, and parmesan, a true comfort food.
The beauty of savory torte lies in their adaptability. Fill these savory pies with anything your imagination desires, seamlessly integrating local ingredients and seasonal flavors. From vibrant vegetable medley’s like zucchini, peppers, and eggplant, to hearty combinations of mushrooms, sausage, and cheese, the possibilities are endless.
Savory torte are not just delicious but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for a light lunch, a satisfying dinner, or a delightful appetizer, they are a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. The beauty lies in their portability, making them ideal for picnics, potlucks, or even a simple lunchbox treat.
Choose the right crust:** Opt for a flakey, buttery puff pastry or a simple and versatile shortcrust.
Get creative with fillings:** Embrace your personal preferences, experimenting with different vegetables, cheeses, meats, and herbs.
Don’t be afraid to experiment: For example adding caramelized onions or a burst of freshness with a sprinkle of herbs.
The Italian savory torte offers a flavorful journey through the heart of Italian cuisine. So, embrace the versatility, let your imagination run wild, and discover the magic of this delightful savory treat.
Italian Torte
Ingredients
- 1 Pkg Hawaiian rolls-sliced in half horizontally
- 1 Tbsp Olive oil
- 5 Oz Baby kale
- 6 Eggs
- 1/4 Tsp Salt
- 1/4 Tsp Ground pepper
- 1/2 Cup Pepper jack or 6 slices Or your favorite cheese
- 14 Slices Genoa salami
- 16 Slices Pepperoni
- 8 Slices Ham like black forest
- 8 Slices Provolone cheese
- 1/2 Cup Pepperoncini pepper-sliced
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350'
- In a springform pan press the bottom half of the Hawaiian rolls into the pan.
- In a skillet heat the oil and cook the kale for 3 minutes. Transfer to a plate and pat dry.
- Whisk the eggs in a small bowl add in salt and pepper.
- On top of the bread layer with half of each, starting with the kale and ending with the provolone cheese. Pour half the eggs over the provolone cheese and the add half of the pepperoncinis. Repeat the same layering and place the top half of the Hawaiian rolls. You can top with melted butter if you like.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for 30 minutes. Allow to rest for 30 minutes. Cut into wedges and serve.