If there is one dessert that epitomises the simplicity and charm of Italian cuisine, it is the Crostata di Mele, or Italian apple tart. At La Ballerina Italian Restaurant in Covent Garden, this dessert is offered for a modest £6.95, bringing together fresh ingredients, authentic preparation, and an unforgettable burst of flavour. With its shortcrust pastry filled with apple purée and delicately layered with slices of fresh apple, Crostata di Mele is a must-try dessert that transports you straight to an Italian countryside kitchen.
The Origins of Crostata di Mele
The crostata is a traditional Italian dessert with a long history that dates back to the Middle Ages. Originally, these rustic tarts were prepared with whatever ingredients were available—berries, apricots, or in the case of autumn, apples. The Italians are known for using local, seasonal ingredients, and the apple crostata embodies this culinary philosophy. By combining a crisp crust with soft, sweet fruit, the crostata serves as a symbol of Italian culinary ingenuity.
Though Crostata di Mele may be reminiscent of the more widely known American apple pie, it is uniquely Italian in its simplicity and lack of heavy spices. The use of a tender, buttery shortcrust contrasts beautifully with the natural sweetness of apples, providing a balanced flavour that allows each ingredient to shine.
La Ballerina’s Approach to Crostata di Mele
Located in the bustling heart of Covent Garden, La Ballerina Italian Restaurant has made a name for itself by bringing authentic Italian flavours to London. Their Crostata di Mele is crafted with a fine shortcrust pastry, rolled thin to create a light and crumbly base that highlights the filling. The pastry encases a smooth apple purée, adding depth to the flavour, while thinly sliced apples are fanned across the top, creating a beautifully arranged pattern that makes it as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
Each bite combines the melt-in-your-mouth consistency of the apple purée with the slight tartness of fresh apple slices, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. The dessert is finished with a gentle dusting of icing sugar, adding a subtle sweetness and enhancing its elegant presentation.
What Makes a Crostata Different?
For those unfamiliar with Italian desserts, the crostata may seem similar to a pie or a tart. However, a few subtle differences set it apart. Unlike American pies, which often feature a thicker, all-enclosing crust, the crostata is typically an open-faced tart with a lattice or single-layer topping that allows the filling to take centre stage. The Italian shortcrust pastry, or pasta frolla, is also distinct from other types of pastry; it is crumbly, less sweet, and uses less butter, creating a lighter base that does not overpower the filling.
La Ballerina’s Crostata di Mele embraces these traditional methods, ensuring that the dessert maintains its authentic Italian character. The restaurant uses a combination of local and imported ingredients to ensure freshness and quality, achieving a result that is true to Italian tradition while embracing the cosmopolitan palate of Covent Garden’s diners.
The Role of Apples in Italian Cuisine
Apples play a prominent role in Italian cooking, especially in desserts. In the Northern regions, such as Trentino-Alto Adige and Piedmont, apples are a staple ingredient due to the cooler climate that favours apple orchards. These regions are renowned for producing high-quality apples with diverse flavours, from the sweet Golden Delicious to the crisp Granny Smith.
The variety of apples used in La Ballerina’s Crostata di Mele reflects this diversity. The chefs carefully select apples that offer a balance of sweetness and acidity, enhancing the flavour profile of the dessert. By using apples that retain their shape and texture after baking, La Ballerina creates a dish that is both visually appealing and satisfyingly complex in taste.
Enjoying Crostata di Mele at La Ballerina: The Ideal Dining Experience
One of the highlights of dining at La Ballerina is the opportunity to enjoy their Crostata di Mele in an atmosphere that echoes the charm and warmth of an Italian trattoria. The restaurant’s interior, with its soft lighting, comfortable seating, and tasteful Italian decor, creates the perfect setting to indulge in this delightful dessert. The rich aroma of baked apples and buttery pastry is irresistible, tempting diners to linger a little longer, savouring each bite.
Pairing Crostata di Mele with a glass of dessert wine or a robust Italian coffee can further enhance the experience. For instance, a glass of Vin Santo, a classic Italian dessert wine, complements the sweetness of the apples while adding a rich, nutty note to the overall flavour profile. Alternatively, an espresso or a cappuccino can bring out the buttery notes of the pastry, making for a perfect conclusion to an Italian meal.
Health Benefits of Apples
Aside from their delicious flavour, apples offer several health benefits, making Crostata di Mele not only a tasty choice but a somewhat nutritious one as well. Apples are packed with dietary fibre, which supports digestive health and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels. They are also a good source of vitamin C and contain various antioxidants, which help reduce the risk of chronic illnesses.
Though Crostata di Mele is a dessert and should be enjoyed in moderation, the presence of fresh apples adds a touch of wholesomeness, especially compared to richer, cream-laden desserts. At La Ballerina, the chefs focus on balance, using natural fruit sweetness to reduce the need for excessive added sugars, thus offering a lighter and more enjoyable treat.
A Slice of Italian Tradition in the Heart of London
With Covent Garden’s vibrant cultural scene, La Ballerina has quickly become a favourite for those seeking authentic Italian cuisine. The Crostata di Mele exemplifies this commitment to tradition and quality, offering diners a taste of Italy’s rich culinary heritage. Each element, from the delicate shortcrust pastry to the tender apple filling, is thoughtfully prepared, ensuring that the dessert is both satisfying and true to its Italian roots.
For Londoners and tourists alike, this delightful apple tart serves as a delicious introduction to Italian desserts, celebrating the beauty of simple, quality ingredients. It invites diners to slow down and savour the flavours, providing a moment of pure enjoyment amidst the hustle and bustle of the city.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you are looking for a comforting end to a meal or a satisfying afternoon treat, Crostata di Mele fits the bill. Its balanced flavours and understated elegance make it a dessert that can appeal to all ages. The dish is versatile enough to be enjoyed on its own, yet it also pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla gelato or a dollop of whipped cream for those who wish to add a touch of indulgence.
The affordable price of £6.95 makes it accessible without compromising on quality, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a taste of Italy without travelling far. This attention to detail and commitment to tradition are what make La Ballerina’s Crostata di Mele a must-try dessert in Covent Garden.
Conclusion: A True Italian Delight
In a city filled with diverse culinary options, La Ballerina Italian Restaurant has managed to stand out by staying true to authentic Italian recipes and creating a warm, welcoming environment for its guests. The Crostata di Mele, with its perfect blend of buttery pastry and fresh apples, is a shining example of the restaurant’s dedication to quality and tradition.
For anyone visiting Covent Garden, a stop at La Ballerina is an opportunity to immerse oneself in a genuine Italian dining experience. The Crostata di Mele is more than just a dessert—it is a slice of Italian culture, crafted with love and respect for the ingredients. Whether you are an apple lover or a newcomer to Italian cuisine, this dish is sure to leave a lasting impression, capturing the essence of Italy one bite at a time.
