Pasqua in Italia: A Feast for the Senses (and the Stomach!)

Easter, or Pasqua in Italian, is a deeply cherished holiday in Italy, blending religious tradition with vibrant cultural celebrations. More than just a day off, it's a time for families to gather, share delicious food, and embrace the arrival of spring. Forget chocolate bunnies; in Italy, Easter is a symphony of flavours, rituals, and joyful reunions.

At Carluccio's, we love to join in the fun with a few festive products, Columba cake (more of that below) and gift sets.  

A Culinary Extravaganza:

Food plays a central role in Italian Easter celebrations. From hearty breakfasts to lavish lunches, the table is a focal point for family gatherings. Here's a taste of what you might find:

• Breakfast: Often featuring savoury pies, hard-boiled eggs, and cured meats like salame.
• Lunch: The main event! Expect a multi-course feast, often including:
  • Agnello (lamb): A traditional Easter dish, often roasted with herbs and potatoes.
  • Carciofi (artichokes): In season during spring, they're often prepared in various ways, from fried to stuffed.
  • Fresh pasta: Regional specialties abound, from lasagna to ravioli.
  • Uova sode (hard boiled eggs): Often decorated and incorporated into dishes.

The Star of the Show: Colomba Pasquale:

No Italian Easter is complete without Colomba Pasquale, a dove-shaped sweet bread. This delicate cake, similar to panettone, is made with flour, eggs, sugar, butter, and candied citrus peel, and is topped with a crunchy almond glaze. Carluccio's offer both the traditional version and a chocolate variant.

• Symbolism: The dove shape symbolises peace and the arrival of spring.
• Preparation: The preparation is similar to that of Panettone, and requires a long and careful process.
• Availability: You'll find Colomba Pasquale in bakeries and supermarkets throughout Italy in the weeks leading up to Easter. It is a very popular item, and there are many artisan versions available.

Beyond the Table:

• Easter Egg Hunts: While not as widespread as in some other countries, Easter egg hunts are becoming increasingly popular, especially for children.
• Family Gatherings: Pasquetta (Easter Monday) is also a national holiday, often spent outdoors with family and friends, picnicking and enjoying the spring weather.
• Regional variations: Every region of Italy has its own unique Easter traditions and culinary specialties.

Experiencing Italian Easter:

If you're lucky enough to be in Italy during Easter, be prepared for a truly immersive experience. From the solemn religious processions to the joyous family gatherings and the irresistible aroma of Colomba Pasquale, Pasqua in Italy is a celebration of life, faith, and the simple pleasures of good food and good company.

That said - you can certainly enjoy good food and good company at home too, and we're here to help with how we can with that!

Buona Pasqua!