Every Easter I make my special traditional Italian Easter Pie. In our family we call it Pizza Gaina. Others call it Pizza Piena, Pizza Chena, and sometimes Rustic Italian Pie. I even know an Englishman who calls it Bacon and Egg Pie. But what does he know! OK so it’s pretty heavy with the choice cold cuts, prosciutto, capicola, salami, ham, eggs and cheese, and so we don't pretend that its good for your cholesterol levels, but it smells and tastes so good and just once in a while you need something like this.

Very often children gather with their Momma, and Nona to help cut up all the ingredients, mix them all up in a huge bowl, make the crust and roll it out, all the while laughing and joking with each other as the most important ingredient goes in. You guessed it, LOVE. Some believe that saying a Hail Mary over the mixture ensures success.

It is bested tasted cold on Easter Morning, or any special occasion or holiday you and your family celebrate. There is nothing like sharing something you all made together as one. The special ingredient that went in only gets better when it is cooked in, and it comes out even more sweetly.

Every family has a special pie, or cake, or bread that serves as a focal point of a family gathering. Making it together is a chance for love and joy to grow. With us its Pizza Gaina, for you it could be that amazing stuffing that goes into roast chicken, or that irresistible sweet bread with almonds and nuts.

If you would like to try my wonderful pie, please go to my web-site and send me a message. I'll make sure Aunt Lena gets it too you ASAP.