Ricotta and Peas Pie Recipe

This Ricotta Peas Pie Recipe is a classic from the Maltese Islands, a truly authentic Mediterranean recipe. It mixes creamy ricotta cheese, peas, and leeks in a flaky puff pastry. People in Malta have loved this pie for a long time because of its rich yet simple ingredients. This pie is a great start if you’ve never tried Maltese food. And if you know Maltese dishes, this recipe will remind you of home.

I love oven-baked meals. The smell fills the house as they cook. And when it’s done? Everyone gathers around to eat. That’s the magic of dishes like this ricotta peas pie, shepherd’s pie, or meaty lasagna. My kids always looked forward to these meals. They’re warm, filling, and feel like home.

Ingredients for the Ricotta Peas Pie Recipe

• Leek: This green vegetable is the subtle star in many dishes. In this pie, leek offers a mild, onion-like flavor without overpowering the dish. It creates a soft aromatic base that complements the other ingredients seamlessly.
• Peas: These little green gems are sweet and tender. They pop with freshness in every bite, adding a slight sweetness and a delightful texture that contrasts with the creamy cheese.
• Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese: The creamy heart of the pie. Ricotta cheese, especially when it’s natural milk, lends a smooth, creamy consistency. It melds with the other ingredients to give the pie its distinctive, soft texture.
• Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese: This cheese brings a touch of saltiness and a rich, nutty flavor. When shredded and mixed in, it adds depth to the pie and ensures a lovely, irresistible melted consistency.
• Eggs: They play a dual role. Eggs help bind all the ingredients together, ensuring the filling remains cohesive. Additionally, they provide a slight richness to the pie, enhancing its flavor profile.
• Phyllo Dough: Thin and crispy phyllo dough wraps up all the deliciousness. It bakes to golden perfection, offering a light, flaky crust contrasting beautifully with the creamy filling.
• Chili Flakes: For those who like a little heat, chili flakes are a great addition. They provide a subtle kick that breaks through the creamy and savory flavors, adding an extra layer of taste to the pie.

Tips and Notes for a Perfect Ricotta Peas Pie

• Handling Puff Pastry: Thaw your puff pastry in the fridge daily. When ready to use, ensure it’s cold but not at room temperature. If you’re in a pinch and forgot to thaw it beforehand, don’t worry! Place it on the counter, and it should be ready in about three hours.
• Choosing the Right Pan: The measurements given in this recipe cater to a deep dish pie about 2 ½ inches deep. If you don’t have a pie dish, a 10-inch springform cake pan also works.
• Ensuring Flaky Dough: After preparing your pie, pop it into the fridge for 30 minutes before baking. This step ensures that your dough turns out beautifully flaky when baked.
• Post-Baking Tips: Patience is key after baking. Allow your pie to sit and rest for at least 20 minutes. This cooling period helps the cheesy filling be appropriately set, ensuring a clean cut when ready to serve.
• Storing Your Pie: If you have leftovers – and we wouldn’t blame you if you don’t – place them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to five days.

Ricotta Peas Pie Recipe Variations

You can change the classic Maltese Ricotta Peas Pie by trying different veggies. Think about using mushrooms, spinach, or artichokes. Also, switch out the ricotta for cheeses like feta or mozzarella. And if you want a change from puff pastry, try shortcrust or filo for a new feel. Whatever changes you make, this pie is always a winner. It has a rich history, and with so many ways to make it your own, it’s sure to be a top recipe in your kitchen.

Perfect Companions for Your Ricotta Peas Pie

• Salads: Bright and fresh salads are great with this pie. Try a mix of pomegranate, blackberries, and papaya. The fruits offer a nice balance of sweet and tart. Or go for a beet salad. Its natural sweetness pairs well with the savory pie.
• Soups: A hearty soup like mushroom brings out the creaminess of the pie. Or try a butternut squash soup. Its sweet taste elevates the whole meal.