Nettle pie

Nettle Pie - A Delicious and Healthy Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 25 minutes
Number of servings: 8

About the recipe

Nettle pie is a traditional dish that combines a healthy and tasty filling with a soft and fluffy dough. This recipe is perfect for fasting days or for those who want to try a savory and healthy snack. Nettles, rich in vitamins and minerals, have been used over time in various culinary dishes due to their nutritional benefits. From hot dishes to soups and salads, nettles are a versatile ingredient that deserves to be included in our diet.

Necessary ingredients

*For the dough:*
- 500 g flour (preferably type 650 for a finer texture)
- 300 ml mineral water (sparkling water for a fluffier dough)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (for a refined taste)
- 1 cube of fresh yeast (or 7 g dry yeast)
- Salt (about 1 teaspoon)

*For the filling:*
- 500 g fresh nettles (make sure they are well cleaned)
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
- Olive oil (for sautéing)
- 5 cloves of garlic (finely chopped for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)

Step by step for a perfect result

Step 1: Preparing the dough
1. In a glass, dissolve the yeast cube in 100 ml of lukewarm water. Let it stand for 5-10 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy.
2. In a large bowl, add the flour and salt. Mix them well to combine evenly.
3. Make a hole in the middle of the flour and add the dissolved yeast, olive oil, and gradually the remaining mineral water.
4. Mix the ingredients with a spatula or with your hands until you obtain a homogeneous dough. If the dough seems too sticky, add a little more flour.

Step 2: Letting the dough rise
1. Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for 30 minutes. It should double in volume.

Step 3: Preparing the filling
1. Meanwhile, wash the nettles very well under cold running water to remove any impurities.
2. Boil the nettles in salted water for 2-3 minutes, then drain them well and let them cool.
3. In a pan, add a few tablespoons of olive oil and sauté the finely chopped onion until it becomes translucent (about 5 minutes).
4. Add the nettles torn into small pieces and the chopped garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste and sauté everything for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Let the filling cool.

Step 4: Assembling the pie
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat).
2. Grease a baking tray with olive oil and line it with baking paper.
3. On a floured surface, roll out 2/3 of the dough into a thin sheet. Place the sheet in the tray, allowing the edges to hang slightly over the top.
4. Add the nettle filling, distributing it evenly.
5. Roll out the remaining dough and place it on top of the filling, sealing the edges well to prevent the filling from leaking. Brush the surface with a little olive oil.

Step 5: Baking
1. Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the pie is golden and crispy.
2. After baking, let the pie cool for a few minutes before cutting it.

Serving and combinations
Nettle pie is delicious both warm and cold. You can serve it alongside a fresh salad of tomatoes and cucumbers or with Greek yogurt for a refreshing touch. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine will perfectly complement the flavors of this dish.

Tips and variations
If you want to experiment, try adding some cheeses, such as cottage cheese or feta, to the filling for a richer taste. You can also replace nettles with spinach or wild garlic, depending on your preferences.

Nutritional benefits
Nettles are an excellent source of vitamins A, C, K, and minerals such as iron and calcium. They have anti-inflammatory properties and are beneficial for the immune system's health. Additionally, this pie offers a healthy combination of carbohydrates from flour and healthy fats from olive oil.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another type of flour?
Yes, you can try whole wheat flour or a mix of white and whole wheat flour for a heartier flavor.
2. What else can I add to the filling?
Besides nettles, you can add mushrooms, cheese, or various herbs to diversify the flavors.
3. How can I store the pie?
The pie can be stored in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave.

I hope you will try this delicious nettle pie recipe and that it will bring you joy in the kitchen! Enjoy!

 Ingredients: Dough 500 g flour 300 ml mineral water 3 tablespoons oil salt 1 cube yeast Filling 1 onion olive oil 500 g nettles salt pepper 5 cloves garlic

 Tags:  nettle pie post