lavagnas

Lavagnas are a type of small, savory pastry or cake popular in certain regions of Italy, particularly Liguria. They are typically made with a simple dough and can be filled with a variety of ingredients. Common fillings include cheese, herbs, and sometimes vegetables like leeks or onions. The dough itself is often a basic flour, water, and olive oil mixture, sometimes enriched with egg.

The preparation of lavagnas generally involves rolling out the dough thinly, cutting it into squares or rectangles, and then filling and folding them before baking. The result is a delicate, flavorful snack or appetizer. They are a traditional part of Ligurian cuisine and can be found in local bakeries and homes.

Variations in lavagnas exist depending on the specific family recipe or regional custom. Some might be fried instead of baked, offering a different texture. The name "lavagna" itself means "blackboard" in Italian, and the origin of this name is not definitively known, though some speculate it relates to their appearance or how they were historically served. They are a simple yet satisfying food, reflecting the agricultural and culinary traditions of their origin.