Savory Rice Pie (Torta di Riso): An Easy Italian Recipe

Updated at: 19/02/2025

Savory rice pie, or Torta di Riso, is a comforting and flavorful Italian classic that's surprisingly easy to make. Unlike its sweet counterpart, this savory version boasts a rich, cheesy filling studded with vegetables and herbs, all baked to golden perfection within a flaky crust. It's a versatile dish, adaptable to your favorite ingredients and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Imagine the aroma of Parmesan cheese and roasted vegetables mingling with the warmth of freshly baked pastry – a truly irresistible culinary experience.

This simple yet elegant dish is perfect for showcasing seasonal vegetables, and its substantial nature makes it ideal for satisfying even the heartiest appetites. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe will guide you through each step, ensuring a delicious and impressive outcome. Ready to create your own masterpiece? Let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step process of making this savory rice pie.

Tools Needed

  • baking sheet
  • rolling pin
  • mixing bowl
  • saucepan
  • plastic wrap or clean cloth

Ingredients

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prepare the Crust and Filling

  • Combine strong flour, salt, and room temperature water. Add olive oil. Knead for 3-5 minutes until a smooth dough forms. Let it rest, covered, for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
  • Boil whole milk, season with salt, and add rice. Cook for 11 minutes, stirring constantly, until almost cooked. Let it cool.
  • Combine the cooked rice, ricotta, eggs, parmesan cheese, black pepper, nutmeg, and fresh maggiorana. Mix well. Add mozzarella if desired.
Prepare the dough: Combine strong flour, salt, and room temperature water. Add olive oil. Knead for 3-5 minutes until a smooth dough forms. Let it rest, covered, for 30 minutes to 1 hour.Cook the rice: Boil whole milk, season with salt, and add rice. Cook for 11 minutes, stirring constantly, until almost cooked. Let it cool.Prepare the filling: Combine the cooked rice, ricotta, eggs, parmesan cheese, black pepper, nutmeg, and fresh maggiorana. Mix well. Add mozzarella if desired.
Prepare the Crust and Filling

Step 2. Assemble and Bake the Pie

  • On a floured surface, roll out the dough thinly.
  • Grease a baking pan. Place the rolled-out dough in the pan, trimming the excess.
  • Pour the filling over the dough in the pan.
  • Fold the edges of the dough over the filling. Brush with a beaten egg. Bake at 350°F (180°C) for 25-35 minutes, or until golden brown.
Roll out the dough: On a floured surface, roll out the dough thinly.Add the filling to the dough: Pour the filling over the dough in the pan.Fold and bake: Fold the edges of the dough over the filling. Brush with a beaten egg. Bake at 350°F (180°C) for 25-35 minutes, or until golden brown.
Assemble and Bake the Pie

Step 3. Rest and Serve

  • Let the pie cool completely before serving.
Cool and serve: Let the pie cool completely before serving.
Rest and Serve

Read more: Castagnaccio Recipe: Authentic Tuscan Gluten-Free Cake

Tips

  • Use a strong flour like bread flour for the best results.
  • Cook the rice slightly less than the recommended time to prevent it from becoming mushy.
  • Stir the rice constantly while cooking to prevent sticking.
  • The nutmeg and fresh maggiorana are crucial for the flavor of this recipe.
  • Let the pie cool completely before serving for the best texture.

Nutrition

  • Fat: 10-15g
  • Carbs: 30-40g
  • Protein: 10-15g

FAQs

1. Can I use leftover rice in this recipe?

Yes! Leftover rice works perfectly, just make sure it's cooled completely before adding it to the filling.

2. What type of cheese is best for this recipe?

Parmesan is traditional, but you can experiment with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different flavor profile.


This Savory Rice Pie is a testament to the simplicity and deliciousness of Italian cuisine. Enjoy the rewarding experience of creating this flavorful dish, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Buon appetito!