Torta Pasqualina is a traditional Italian Easter pie that combines layers of flaky pastry with a rich, savory filling. Originating from the Liguria region, this dish has become a beloved symbol of Easter celebrations in Italy, thanks to its vibrant flavors and stunning presentation. With its combination of spinach, ricotta, and eggs, this savory pie is the perfect dish to enjoy with family and friends during the holiday season.
At the heart of Torta Pasqualina is its delicious filling. Fresh spinach is sautéed with onions, garlic, and olive oil until tender, then mixed with creamy ricotta cheese to create a luscious and flavorful base. The addition of Parmesan cheese adds a depth of flavor, while nutmeg and pepper provide subtle warmth to the filling. What truly makes this dish unique, however, is the use of whole eggs, which are carefully cracked into the filling before baking. When the pie is sliced, the perfectly cooked eggs create a beautiful and visually striking effect.
The pastry for Torta Pasqualina is just as important as the filling. The dough is traditionally made with olive oil, which gives it a light, flaky texture. The pie is assembled by layering the dough, first on the bottom of the pan, then adding the spinach and ricotta mixture, followed by more dough on top. The result is a beautifully golden and crisp crust that complements the creamy, savory filling inside.
Torta Pasqualina can be served warm or at room temperature, making it a versatile dish for any Easter meal. It pairs wonderfully with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or even a glass of crisp white wine. Whether served as a starter or as the main dish, this savory pie is sure to be a hit at your Easter table.

Ingredients
- 500 grams fresh spinach washed and trimmed
- 500 grams ricotta cheese drained
- 8 pieces eggs 6 hard-boiled, 2 raw
- 100 grams Parmesan cheese grated
- 500 grams puff pastry store-bought or homemade
- 1 tablespoon olive oil extra virgin
- to taste salt
- to taste black pepper freshly ground
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Blanch the spinach in boiling water for 2 minutes, then drain and squeeze out excess water. Chop finely.
- In a large bowl, mix the chopped spinach, ricotta, Parmesan, and 2 raw eggs until well combined. Season with salt and pepper.
- Roll out half of the puff pastry and line a greased 9-inch pie tin, ensuring it covers the sides.
- Fill the pastry base with the spinach and ricotta mixture. Make 6 evenly spaced indentations in the filling and place a hard-boiled egg in each.
- Cover the pie with the remaining rolled-out pastry, sealing the edges. Brush with olive oil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the pastry is golden brown.
- Allow the pie to cool slightly before serving.
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Took me 3 hours to make and it burnt. Not worth it. 🙁
Wow, this looks amazing! Can’t wait to try it for Easter brunch.
I’m not sure about the mixture… Spinach and ricotta? Sounds weird to me…
My Grandma used to make this every Easter! Brings back memories, thanks for the recipe!
Eeeek, burnt mine 🙁. Totally my fault though. Will try again!
Can someone explain to me why it needs 2 raw eggs?? Feels weird to me.
It was okay, but I think it needed more seasoning. I used store-bought pastry and it just didn’t taste right.
Yum! Very nice. Next time I might add some garlic to the filling for extra flavor.
Great idea! Garlic would definitely enhance the flavor. I usually add it too!
Garlic? In Torta Pasqualina? Isn’t that not traditional? Maybe try it but I dunno…
Tasted amazing! But what’s the deal with the hard-boiled eggs? They were weird in there.
Weird? I dunno, I like the taste but… eggs are supposed to go in pasta. 🤷♂️
I thought the hard-boiled eggs added a nice touch! They’re traditional in this dish.
Absolutely loved this recipe! The flavors were fantastic and it was a hit with my family.
I’m so glad you enjoyed it! It’s one of those recipes that just tastes like home. Now I’m craving it again!
Not as easy as it seemed! I messed up the pastry—ended up burning it. Maybe I’ll try again but with less pressure.
Don’t worry, it happens to the best of us! Burning pastry is a common mistake. Just take your time next time, and it’ll be fine!
Less pressure? Cooking is supposed to be fun! Just keep practicing, you’ll get it right soon! Maybe lower the oven temp a bit? Just a thought!
Looks complicated… but I’ll give it a try. Is it really worth the time or is it just fancy?
Spinach is healthy, right? Probably gonna make this for dinner tonight.
Not a fan of ricotta. Can I use cottage cheese instead? Anyone tried that?
Cottage cheese could work, but it might change the texture. I’ve never tried it tho! 😅
This recipe is the absolute best! I’ve made it twice already and it reminds me of my grandma’s cooking.
I used frozen spinach instead of fresh and it turned out great! Just thought I’d share my hack.
Yummy!! Also, pro tip: add some nutmeg for an extra kick! I do it in my family, it’s a game changer!
Nutmeg? Really? I thought that was only for desserts! Not sure if I wanna try that.
This isn’t a true Torta Pasqualina. Real ones have more layers and are made with different greens, u kno?