Spinach and sheep cheese pie

Dive into the delicious world of spinach and sheep cheese pie, a dish that combines the freshness of vegetables with the richness of cheese, resulting in an unforgettable culinary experience. This recipe is not just a meal, but a story that unfolds with every bite, reminding you of the moments spent with family around the table. Spinach and sheep cheese pie is a perfect choice for both festive meals and a quick, healthy lunch.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 8

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 package of pastry sheets (400 g)
- 1 kg of fresh spinach leaves (approximately 2 kg of raw spinach)
- 60 ml of virgin olive oil
- 3-4 green onions
- 1 large onion
- 400 g of sheep cheese
- 3 eggs
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon of sumac (for a slightly tangy taste)
- 60 g of butter + 50 ml of olive oil for greasing

Let’s start the culinary adventure!

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing the spinach leaves well. If you have fresh spinach, make sure to remove the thicker stems. Once washed, place it in a pot of boiling water to blanch for a few minutes until it becomes soft and changes color. After it cools, drain it well and chop it finely. This step is essential to avoid a soggy pie.

Step 2: Sauté the vegetables
In a large skillet, heat two tablespoons of olive oil. Add the chopped green onions and the large onion, finely chopped. Sauté them over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they become translucent. Add salt and sumac to enhance the flavor. The onion will provide a pleasant sweetness to the dish, while the sumac will add a distinct note.

Step 3: Combining the ingredients
In a generous bowl, beat the three eggs and add the grated sheep cheese. Mix well to achieve a uniform composition. Add the chopped spinach and the sautéed onion mixture, stirring carefully to combine everything. This is the moment when the flavors blend and the magic begins!

Step 4: Preparing the baking tray
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a tray measuring 30x40 cm with the mixture of melted butter and olive oil. This step will help achieve a golden and crispy crust.

Step 5: Layering the pastry sheets
Carefully place 6 pastry sheets in the tray, greasing each layer with the butter and olive oil mixture. Ensure the sheets are well arranged to create a stable base for the filling. Then, add the spinach and cheese mixture, leveling it evenly. This step is crucial for having a well-proportioned pie.

Step 6: Covering the pie
Continue adding the remaining 6 pastry sheets, greasing each one with the butter and olive oil mixture. Finally, grease the last sheet only with olive oil to prevent burning. Sprinkle ground sumac on top for a beautiful appearance and unique taste.

Step 7: Cutting and baking
Before placing the pie in the oven, cut it into squares. This trick helps achieve perfect portions and facilitates even baking. Bake the pie for 40-45 minutes or until it becomes golden and crispy on top.

Step 8: Serving
After removing the pie from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. This will allow the filling to set, making it easier to cut. Serve the pie warm, alongside a fresh salad or a cooling yogurt. This is a perfect combination that balances the rich flavors of cheese and spinach.

Practical tips:
- If you want a more intense flavor, add some chopped green or black olives to the filling.
- You can also use other types of cheese, such as feta or cottage cheese, to vary the flavors.
- If you don’t have sumac, try lemon juice to add a touch of acidity.

Nutritional benefits:
This pie is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Spinach is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and antioxidants. Sheep cheese brings quality protein and calcium, making this dish a nutritious choice.

Calories:
A serving of spinach and sheep cheese pie has approximately 300-350 calories, depending on the amount of oil and butter used. It is a good option for a balanced meal, especially when served with a fresh salad.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, frozen spinach is an excellent alternative. Make sure to thaw and drain it well before use.

2. How can I store the pie?
The pie can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven to restore its crispiness.

3. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
You can adapt the recipe by using egg-free pastry sheets and substituting the cheese with a vegan alternative.

Spinach and sheep cheese pie is more than just a dish; it is a culinary experience that brings people and traditions together. Whether you enjoy it at a family meal or prepare it for friends, this recipe will surely become a favorite. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: We need: 1 package of phyllo dough (400 g) 1 kg of fresh spinach leaves (obtained from 2 kg of spinach) virgin olive oil a few green onions 1 large onion 400 g sheep cheese 3 eggs 1 teaspoon of salt freshly ground pepper sumac 60 g butter + 50 ml olive oil for greasing