Pizza Piena
A hearty homemade pizza with a crisp crust and savory filling, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, showcasing simple ingredients for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift the flour and cut in the shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the 4 egg yolks, 2 reserved egg whites, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well; if the dough is too firm, add a few drops of water.
- Divide two-thirds of the dough to fit the bottom of a 9-inch deep round pan with a 1-inch rim.
- Press the dough into the bottom and up the sides of the pan.
- Roll out the remaining dough for the top crust and set aside.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier crust, try substituting half of the shortening with cold butter. If you prefer a healthier option, consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. To give your crust an extra kick, experiment by adding herbs like oregano or basil to the dough. Make sure to chill the dough for about 30 minutes before rolling it out to prevent shrinking during baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Pizza Piena warm, cut into wedges, with a side of fresh salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Italian Tomato Pie for a delightful Italian-inspired feast. You can also add a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for added flavor before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Pizza Piena in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the pizza on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This helps maintain the crust's crispiness while ensuring the filling is heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pizza Piena contains roughly 1225 calories, with 19g protein, 145g carbohydrates, and 75g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (110% of the Daily Value), iron (76% of the Daily Value), and calcium (53% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 31g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze Pizza Piena?
Yes, you can freeze Pizza Piena! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it in the oven for the best texture.
What can I use as a filling for Pizza Piena?
You can get creative with fillings! Traditional options include ricotta, mozzarella, and various meats or vegetables. For a vegetarian twist, consider using sautéed spinach and mushrooms or a mix of roasted vegetables. This versatility allows you to customize it to your taste or dietary preferences.
How do I ensure the crust doesn’t become soggy?
To avoid a soggy crust, pre-bake the bottom crust for about 10 minutes before adding the filling. This helps set the dough and creates a barrier against moisture. Additionally, avoid overfilling with wet ingredients, and consider using a layer of breadcrumbs on the crust to absorb excess moisture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).