How to fill the piadina

The piadina, also known as piada, is a traditional Italian flatbread that originates from the region of Romagna. With its thin and soft texture, the piadina is a popular street food in Italy and has gained international recognition for its endless filling possibilities. In this article, we will guide you on how to fill the piadina with a variety of delightful ingredients to create a tasty and satisfying meal.

Before we dive into the filling options, let’s start with the basic steps of making piadina dough. You will need 2 cups of all-purpose flour, a pinch of salt, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and ½ cup of warm water. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt, then make a well in the center. Pour in the olive oil and gradually add the warm water while stirring until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Divide the dough into small balls and let them rest for at least 30 minutes before rolling them out into thin circles.

Now that you have your perfectly rolled piadina, it’s time to unleash your creativity and fill it with delicious ingredients. Here are some ideas to get you started:

1. Classic Caprese: Spread a layer of basil pesto on the piadina, then add fresh mozzarella, tomato slices, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Fold it in half and grill for a few minutes until the cheese melts and the piadina turns crispy.

2. Mediterranean Delight: Start by rubbing the piadina with garlic-infused olive oil. Top it with mixed greens, roasted red peppers, marinated artichoke hearts, and crumbled feta cheese. Finish it off with a sprinkle of oregano and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

3. Tuscan Vegetable: For a vegetarian option, spread a layer of sun-dried tomato pesto on the piadina. Add grilled zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, and sliced red onions on top. Crumble some goat cheese over the vegetables and grill until the cheese becomes slightly melted.

4. Meat Lover’s Dream: Spread a layer of garlic aioli on the piadina and layer it with thinly sliced grilled chicken, crispy bacon, avocado slices, and baby spinach. Add a touch of Sriracha for an extra kick, then fold and grill until the piadina is warm and golden.

5. Sweet Treat: Piadinas are not just limited to savory fillings! Spread a layer of Nutella or your favorite chocolate hazelnut spread on the piadina, then add sliced bananas, strawberries, and a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Fold it in half and warm it up on the grill until the chocolate becomes gooey and irresistible.

Remember, these are just a few suggestions to inspire you. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavor combinations to suit your taste. The piadina is incredibly versatile and can be filled with almost anything you desire.

In conclusion, the piadina offers a delightful and convenient way to enjoy a delicious meal. Whether you prefer a classic caprese or a unique sweet treat, there are endless possibilities when it comes to filling this Italian flatbread. So, gather your ingredients, get creative, and enjoy the endless flavor combinations that the piadina has to offer. Buon appetito!