Spinach pie

Spinach Pie - A Healthy and Satisfying Treat

If you are looking for a pie recipe that is not only tasty but also healthy, you have come to the right place! Spinach pie is one of those dishes that brings joy at any time of the day. Its inviting flavors and delicate texture make it perfect for both lunch and dinner. Let's embark on this simple yet delicious recipe together!

Preparation Time and Number of Servings
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Baking time: 40-45 minutes
- Total time: approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes
- Number of servings: 4-6 servings

Necessary Ingredients

For the Dough:
- 500 g flour
- 100 g butter (preferably unsalted)
- 220 ml cold water
- 1 egg (at room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon salt

For the Filling:
- 400 g spinach (fresh or frozen)
- 1 large carrot (fresh)
- 1 large onion
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 150 g sheep cheese (or cottage cheese, as preferred)
- 100 g cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
- 100 ml sour cream
- 3 eggs + 1 egg white
- 1/2 bunch of fresh dill
- 1 egg yolk for brushing

A Brief History of Spinach Pie
Spinach pie is a traditional dish that has been appreciated over time for its versatility. Spinach, a nutrient-rich food, has been used in various cultures for its health benefits. This recipe not only offers a delicious taste but also an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, making it an ideal choice for those who want to combine pleasure with nutrition.

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the Dough
Start by sifting the flour into a large bowl. Add the diced butter and mix it with your fingers until you obtain a sandy mixture. This technique is known as "sablage" and is essential for achieving a tender dough.

Add the beaten egg and salt, then gradually start adding the cold water. Knead the dough until it becomes soft but not sticky. If it is too sticky, you can add a little flour; if it is too dry, add a little more water. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Preparing the Filling
If you are using frozen spinach, let it thaw. If you are using fresh spinach, wash it well in at least 3 waters, then blanch it in boiling salted water for 5 minutes. After it cools, drain it well and chop it finely.

Peel the carrot and grate it using a fine grater. Chop the onion finely and add it to the carrot. Mince the garlic and add it to the mixture. In another bowl, lightly beat the eggs together with the egg white, add the sour cream, sheep cheese, and grated cheese. Then add the spinach and vegetables to this mixture and homogenize everything. Add salt and pepper to taste.

3. Assembling the Pie
Remove the dough from the refrigerator and divide it into two parts, one larger for the base. Roll out the dough into a circle larger than the size of the pan (preferably 18 cm in diameter). Place it in the pan, pricking it with a fork to avoid air bubbles.

Pour the spinach filling into the pan, then fold the edges of the dough over the filling. From the remaining dough, roll out a sheet from which you can cut strips to place over the filling. This not only looks beautiful but also allows steam to escape, keeping the inside moist and tasty.

4. Baking the Pie
Beat the egg yolk with a tablespoon of milk and brush the pie. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and bake the pie for 40-45 minutes or until it becomes golden and crispy.

5. Serving
After removing the pie from the oven, let it cool slightly to set. It’s hard to resist its inviting aroma, but the wait is worth it! You can serve the pie warm or at room temperature, alongside a fresh salad for a perfect lunch or with yogurt for a light dinner.

Practical Tips
- Cheese variant: If you don’t have sheep cheese, cottage cheese is an excellent alternative. You can even add feta cheese for a more intense flavor.
- Fresh spinach: Make sure the spinach is well washed and free of impurities, and if you use it fresh, do not skip the blanching process to remove the bitter taste.
- Thermal care: Using a ceramic pan can help with even baking, avoiding burning the bottom of the pie.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other vegetables instead of spinach?
Absolutely! You can replace spinach with nettles, cheese with spinach, or even zucchini - choose your favorite vegetables!

2. Can the pie be frozen?
Yes, the pie can be frozen before baking. Make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap.

3. What drinks pair well with this pie?
Spinach pie pairs wonderfully with creamy yogurt or freshly squeezed tomato juice. Additionally, a light blonde beer could be the perfect choice for those who prefer alcohol.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits
This spinach pie is not only delicious but also nutritious. Spinach is an excellent source of iron, vitamin K, and antioxidants. One serving (1/6 of the pie) contains approximately 300-350 calories, depending on the ingredients used. This can be a good choice for a balanced lunch or dinner.

Possible Variations
- Vegetarian pie: Exclude cheese and add vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for a vegan version.
- Meat pie: You can add ground chicken or turkey to the filling for a different texture and added protein.

Personal Note
This spinach pie is more than just a simple recipe for me; it is a memory of family meals and moments spent around the table. Every bite brings us together, and its aroma and taste fill our hearts with joy. I invite you to try this recipe and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen!

Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: Dough ingredients: 500 g flour, 100 g butter, 220 ml water, 1 egg, 1 teaspoon salt. Filling: 400 g squeezed spinach, 1 carrot, 1 large onion, 4 cloves of garlic, 150 g sheep cheese, 100 g cheese, 100 ml sour cream, 3 eggs + 1 egg white, 1/2 bunch of dill, 1 yolk for brushing.

 Tags:  spinach pie cheese pie