Traditional Italian Recipe: Casatiello
Casatiello is a delicious traditional Italian dish that originates from the Campania region. It is essentially a savory bread filled with cheese, salami, and eggs, making it a perfect addition to any meal or gathering.
This indulgent dish is typically enjoyed during special occasions such as Easter or other festive celebrations. The rich flavors and hearty ingredients make it a standout centerpiece on any dining table.
Whether you’re looking to impress your guests with an authentic Italian food experience or simply craving a taste of Italy at home, Casatiello is the perfect choice for a memorable meal.
Italian Recipe: Casatiello (Casatiello)
Ingredients:
– 500g of bread dough
– 200g of diced pancetta
– 150g of grated Parmesan cheese
– 100g of provolone cheese, diced
– 100g of salami, diced
– 4 eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation time: 1 hour
Serves: 4 persons
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Instructions:
1. Prepare the bread dough:
– Start by preparing your favorite bread dough recipe or use store-bought dough.
– Let the dough rise until it doubles in size.
2. Prepare the filling:
– In a bowl, mix together the diced pancetta, grated Parmesan cheese, diced provolone cheese, diced salami, and eggs.
– Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
3. Assemble the Casatiello:
– Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
– Roll out the bread dough into a rectangle shape.
– Spread the filling mixture evenly over the dough.
– Roll up the dough into a log shape and place it in a greased round baking pan.
– Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
4. Cooking:
– Brush the top of the Casatiello with beaten egg for a shiny finish.
– Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Serve:
– Allow the Casatiello to cool slightly before slicing and serving. Enjoy this delicious Italian treat!
Difficulty score: 3 out of 10
The difficulty score is relatively low because making Casatiello mainly involves assembling ingredients and allowing them to rise and bake. The steps are straightforward and do not require advanced cooking techniques. With some patience and attention to detail, you can easily create this traditional Italian dish at home.
Nutrition: Casatiello (Casatiello)
Here is the nutrition information per serving for Casatiello, a traditional Italian Easter bread:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
Casatiello is a delicious and hearty dish that is a staple in Italian cuisine. While it may be higher in calories and fat due to the cheese and meats used in the recipe, it also provides a good amount of protein and can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Pairing it with some fresh vegetables or a salad can help balance out the meal.
Serving suggestions for Casatiello (Casatiello)
If you are serving Casatiello as a main dish, pair it with a fresh green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette. The lightness and acidity of the salad will complement the richness of the Italian recipe. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant for a more substantial meal.
For a casual gathering or picnic, slice the Casatiello into thick wedges and serve it alongside cured meats such as salami, prosciutto, and mortadella. Add some olives, pickles, and crusty bread to create an authentic Italian antipasto platter that will impress your guests.
What to serve with Casatiello (Casatiello)
- Fresh tomato sauce: A simple marinara sauce made with fresh tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil is the perfect accompaniment to Italian food. The tangy sweetness of the tomatoes will cut through the richness of the Casatiello.
- Balsamic glaze: Drizzle some balsamic glaze over slices of Casatiello for an extra burst of flavor. The sweet and tangy notes of the balsamic vinegar will enhance the savory taste of this traditional Italian dish.
- Aged Parmesan cheese: Shave some aged Parmesan cheese over warm slices of Casatiello for added umami flavor. The nutty and salty profile of Parmesan complements the cheesy goodness of this classic Italian recipe.
By incorporating these serving suggestions into your meal planning, you can elevate your dining experience with this delicious and satisfying Casatiello. Whether enjoyed as a main course or appetizer, this flavorful Italian dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Tips to Increase Flavor on Casatiello
One way to enhance the flavor of your Italian recipe for Casatiello is to add a variety of high-quality cheeses. Consider incorporating a mix of sharp Parmesan, creamy mozzarella, and tangy pecorino romano for a more complex and savory taste profile.
Another tip is to include a generous amount of fresh herbs such as basil, oregano, and parsley. These aromatic ingredients will not only add depth of flavor but also bring a touch of brightness to your dish.
Spicy Score: 3 out of 10
I would give this Casatiello recipe a relatively low spicy score of 3 out of 10. While traditional Italian cuisine does not typically rely on intense spiciness, you can still incorporate some heat by adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or finely diced jalapeños for a subtle kick without overpowering the other flavors.