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.  

The Religious Heart of Pasqua:

For many Italians, Pasqua is first and foremost a religious holiday. The week leading up to Easter, Settimana Santa (Holy Week), is observed with solemn processions and religious services. Good Friday (Venerdì Santo) sees moving processions, often featuring costumed participants re-enacting the Stations of the Cross. Easter Sunday (Domenica di Pasqua) is a day of joyous celebration, marked by church services and the sharing of blessings.

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!