Cheese and spinach pie

Cheese and Spinach Pie – a delightful recipe, full of flavors and textures, perfect for any meal. This recipe brings together creamy cheese, fresh spinach, and crispy pastry sheets, creating a delicious contrast that will delight the taste buds of your loved ones. It is an excellent choice for a light lunch or dinner, but can also be a savory appetizer at a party.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Required ingredients

For the filling:
- 250 g cottage cheese
- 450 g ricotta
- 2 handfuls of fresh spinach, chopped
- 5 cloves of garlic, crushed
- 1 egg
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Sea salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- Freshly grated nutmeg, to taste
- 50 g breadcrumbs

For the pie:
- 6 sheets of pastry, cut in half (this yields 12 smaller sheets)
- Basil-flavored olive oil
- 50 g breadcrumbs for sprinkling

The story behind the recipe

Cheese and spinach pie has deep roots in traditional kitchens, being a dish appreciated for its versatility. Often, this type of pie is associated with moments of conviviality, served at family meals or celebrations. Spinach, rich in vitamins and minerals, pairs perfectly with cheese, creating a delicious yet nutritious combination. Whether served warm or cold, the pie remains a favorite for everyone.

Step by step – Your complete guide

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 190 °C. This will ensure even baking and help achieve a golden crust.

2. Preparing the dish: Grease a heat-resistant dish with a little basil-flavored olive oil. This will not only prevent sticking but will also add a pleasant flavor to the pie.

3. Preparing the filling: In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese with the ricotta. Mix well to achieve a smooth texture. Add the chopped spinach, crushed garlic, egg, and lemon zest. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste. Ensure the filling is well mixed so that the flavors combine perfectly.

4. Assembling the pie: Take each sheet of pastry and brush it with a teaspoon of olive oil. Place half of the pastry sheets, overlapping, in the prepared dish. Sprinkle 50 g of breadcrumbs on the layer of pastry, which will absorb moisture and add a crispy layer.

5. Adding the filling: Place the cheese and spinach filling over the pastry sheets. Level it well for an even distribution of filling.

6. Doubling the layers: Cover the filling with the remaining pastry sheets, also overlapping. Ensure each sheet is well brushed with oil to achieve a crispy texture.

7. Baking: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until nicely browned. You will know it’s ready when a golden and crispy crust appears.

8. Cooling: Let the pie cool for a few minutes before slicing. This will help the filling stabilize, making slicing easier.

Useful tips and variations

- Spinach: If you don’t have fresh spinach, you can use frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and squeeze it well to remove excess water.
- Cheeses: Instead of cottage cheese and ricotta, you can experiment with ricotta or feta cheese for a different taste.
- Additions: You can add chopped green or black olives for extra flavor or some nuts for a crunchy texture.
- Serving: This pie pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a dill yogurt sauce for a refreshing contrast.

Calories and nutritional benefits

A serving of this pie contains approximately 220 calories, being rich in protein due to the cheese and egg, as well as essential vitamins and minerals from spinach. It is a nutritious choice, high in fiber, that can contribute to a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I freeze the pie?
Yes, this pie can be frozen. Make sure to cover it well with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. When you are ready to serve it, thaw and bake according to the instructions.

2. How can I make the pie spicier?
Add some chili flakes to the filling or use spicy cheese. This will provide an interesting flavor and elevate the spice level.

3. Can I use store-bought pastry sheets?
Sure! Store-bought pastry sheets are an excellent choice for saving time. Make sure to thaw them according to the instructions on the package.

Cheese and spinach pie is a simple yet flavorful recipe that will bring joy to your table. Experiment with the ingredients and find the combination that suits you best. I invite you to try it and delight your family and friends with this delicacy!

 Ingredients: 6 sheets of pastry, cut in half (this yields 12 smaller ones) basil-flavored olive oil 50g breadcrumbs For the filling 250g cottage cheese 450g ricotta 2 handfuls of fresh spinach, chopped 5 cloves of garlic, crushed 1 egg zest of 1 lemon sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste freshly grated nutmeg, to taste 50g breadcrumbs