Savory Bell Pepper and Artichoke Pie

The savory pie with bell peppers and artichokes is a very tasty dish that lends itself to different variations. I will provide you with a classic version which, if you wish, you can modify according to your tastes. Here is the recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 roll of puff pastry or shortcrust pastry, according to preference
• 2 bell peppers (one red and one yellow for a touch of color)
• 200 g of artichokes (you can use oil-preserved ones, well drained, or fresh if in season)
• 1 small onion
• 3 eggs
• 100 ml of fresh cream or milk
• 100 g of grated cheese (Parmesan, pecorino, Parmesan, etc.)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Aromatic herbs to taste (thyme, marjoram, basil, etc.)
• 1 clove of garlic (optional)

Preparation

1. Start by cleaning the bell peppers, removing the seeds and internal filaments, and cut them into strips. If using fresh artichokes, clean them by removing the outer hard leaves and the inner hairs, and cut them into wedges, soaking them in lemony water to prevent browning.
2. Thinly slice the onion and, if you decide to use it, the garlic. In a pan with a little oil, fry the onion (and garlic) until it becomes translucent.
3. Add the bell peppers and cook until they start to soften. If you have chosen fresh artichokes, add them now to the pan and cook everything for about 15-20 minutes over medium heat with the pan covered. If you have oil-preserved artichokes, add them towards the end of the peppers’ cooking time.
4. In the meantime, preheat the oven to 180 °C (350 °F).
5. In a bowl, beat the eggs with the cream or milk, add the grated cheese, salt, pepper, and aromatic herbs. Stir well.
6. Roll out the puff pastry and lay it in a pan (preferably a springform pan) previously greased or lined with parchment paper. Prick the bottom with a fork to prevent it from puffing up during cooking.
7. Evenly distribute the sautéed peppers and artichokes on the puff pastry.
8. Pour the egg and cheese mixture over the vegetables.
9. Bake the savory pie for about 30-40 minutes or until the surface is golden brown and puffy.
10. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Curiosità

The savory pie is very versatile and can be served as an appetizer, a main dish, or even as a course in a buffet. The combination of bell peppers and artichokes not only provides an explosion of flavor but also a wide variety of nutrients, as both vegetables are rich in vitamins and minerals. The savory pie can be enriched with the addition of olives, capers, or other vegetables of your choice.