Italy By Food Enthusiasts · 5 min read

National Dish Italy: Scaccia Ragusana (Recipe)

Golden stuffed Scaccia Ragusana cut to show its tomato and ricotta filling

In this article

Say hello to Scaccia Ragusana, a soulful stuffed dough from the sun-baked province of Ragusa in south-eastern Sicily. Layers of thin, golden pastry wrap around a savoury filling of ripe tomatoes, fragrant herbs and creamy cheese, making it equally at home as a hearty snack or a satisfying main. Every bite carries the warmth of the Sicilian countryside, and with a little practice you can recreate that taste of the Mediterranean right in your own kitchen.

About Scaccia Ragusana

Scaccia Ragusana is a traditional Sicilian dish that hails from the province of Ragusa. This savoury stuffed dough is often served as a snack or a main course, and it is prized for its generous, varied filling. Typical ingredients include ripe, savoury tomatoes, fragrant herbs and a hint of cheese. With its distinctive combination of flavours and textures, Scaccia brings the taste of Sicily straight to your table.

Ingredients (serves 1–2)

250 g plain flour
150 ml water
1 tsp salt
200 g diced tomatoes
100 g ricotta (or a vegan alternative)
Fresh herbs (basil, oregano)
Pepper and olive oil, to taste

Shopping for the ingredients

The first step towards a good Scaccia Ragusana is shopping for fresh ingredients. It is well worth visiting a local market to track down the ripest tomatoes and the most fragrant herbs. Take care to choose good-quality produce, as the freshness of the ingredients has a direct effect on the flavour of the finished dish. Don’t forget the seasonings and the cheese either, as both are essential to that perfect Sicilian taste.

Preparing the dish

Before you start making your Scaccia Ragusana, make sure every ingredient is ready to go. Weigh out the quantities you need and check that everything is fresh. The tomatoes in particular should be ripe and full of flavour so the dish really sings. A little preparation up front lets the cooking flow smoothly and keeps the whole process relaxed and efficient.

Step-by-step instructions

Combine the flour and salt in a bowl, then gradually add the water until you have a smooth dough.
Cover the dough and leave it to rest for 30 minutes so it becomes elastic.
Roll the dough out thinly on a floured surface.
Spread the filling of tomatoes, ricotta and herbs evenly over the dough.
Fold the dough over to enclose the filling, pressing the edges firmly to seal.
Fry the scaccia in a pan with a little olive oil until golden brown.

Gluten-free / lactose-free version

Scaccia Ragusana also works beautifully in a gluten-free and lactose-free version. Simply swap the plain flour for gluten-free flour, which is widely available in supermarkets. For a lactose-free filling, reach for plant-based options such as soya or almond ricotta. That way the dish stays free of these allergens without sacrificing any of its delicious flavour.

Tips for vegans and vegetarians

If you fancy a vegan version of Scaccia Ragusana, you can easily replace the ricotta with a plant-based alternative. Instead of cheese you might use nuts, or vegetable fillings such as spinach or courgette. Experiment with different herbs and spices to build up a range of flavours. This gives you the freedom to put together a wholesome, tasty dish that everyone can enjoy — much like a generous helping of Melanzane Ripiene.

More tips and tricks

To get the very best from your Scaccia Ragusana, keep a few small pointers in mind. Make sure the dough is rolled out thinly and evenly so it cooks through uniformly. You can also brush the edges with a little water so they stick together properly and don’t burst open during frying. A pinch of Parmesan or a vegan cheese alternative adds an extra savoury depth to the filling.

Adapting the recipe to your taste

Scaccia Ragusana is easy to tailor to your own preferences. Add different vegetables to layer in extra flavour, or experiment with spices such as paprika or chilli for a spicier version. You can also vary the filling depending on what is in season. With these little adjustments you can shape the dish to suit your taste exactly.

Ingredient substitutions

Sometimes you may find you don’t have every ingredient for Scaccia Ragusana to hand. In those moments it pays to get creative and reach for suitable alternatives. Instead of fresh tomatoes, for example, you could use tomato purée or frozen tomatoes. Ricotta can likewise be swapped for tofu or a cashew cream to achieve a similar creamy effect, the same trick that lends richness to Cannelloni Ricotta e Spinaci.

Drink pairing ideas

A few well-chosen drinks will set off your Scaccia Ragusana perfectly. A crisp Sicilian white wine, such as a Grillo or Catarratto, harmonises wonderfully with the flavours of the dish. Alternatively you might serve a zingy lemonade or a glass of homemade iced tea for a refreshing accompaniment. Remember that your choice of drink can make a real difference to the overall impression of the meal.

Serving and presentation ideas

Thoughtful presentation can lift the whole Scaccia Ragusana experience. Serve the scaccia on a handsome plate and decorate it with fresh herbs. A small drizzle of olive oil or a balsamic reduction looks appealing and adds a flavourful flourish. A touch of colour and creativity on the plate will delight your guests and make the meal all the more memorable.

A bit of history

Scaccia Ragusana has a long and rich history, woven deeply into Sicilian culture. Originally prepared by farmers as a nourishing midday meal, it has grown over the years into a delicious dish enjoyed on special occasions. It is above all the combination of regional ingredients and traditional methods that makes this dish so special. Today the scaccia is beloved not only in Sicily but in Italian restaurants around the world, a proud ambassador for Italian cuisine.

More recipe ideas

Summary: Scaccia Ragusana

In short, Scaccia Ragusana offers a delicious way to celebrate Italian culture at your own table. With its varied filling and savoury dough, it invites you to get creative and try out your own variations. Whether you serve it as a snack or a main course, this dish is a treat for all the senses. Let the essence of Sicily inspire you, and savour every single bite.