Spinach and sheep cheese pie

Spinach and Feta Pie: A Culinary Delight

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 8

Introduction

Today, I’m excited to share a delicious and comforting recipe: spinach and feta pie. This savory pie is perfect for lunch or dinner, but it can also be enjoyed cold, making it an excellent choice for picnics or holiday meals. Spinach pie has a long history, cherished in many cultures for its combination of simple yet flavorful ingredients.

Ingredients

*For the dough:*
- 500 grams of flour
- 1 egg
- 150 ml of oil (preferably olive oil for a richer flavor)
- 1 cube of fresh yeast (about 25 grams)
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 150 ml of warm water
- A pinch of salt

*For the filling:*
- 700 grams of spinach (fresh or frozen)
- 650 grams of feta cheese (or sheep cheese)
- 3 eggs
- A bunch of green onions (the green tops)
- A bunch of dill
- A bunch of parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the Dough

1. Activating the yeast: Start by dissolving the yeast cube in a cup of warm water. Add a teaspoon of sugar and a tablespoon of flour. Let the mixture sit for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is crucial for achieving a light and fluffy dough.

2. Kneading the dough: In a large bowl, place the flour and make a well in the center. Add the activated yeast, then the oil, warm water, and egg. Sprinkle in a pinch of salt. Knead the dough for 10-15 minutes until it becomes elastic and pulls away from the sides of the bowl. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.

3. Letting the dough rise: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 30-45 minutes, or until it doubles in size.

Preparing the Filling

1. Preparing the spinach: Rinse the spinach thoroughly under cold running water. If using fresh spinach, blanch it for 3-4 minutes in boiling water, then drain well and chop finely. If using frozen spinach, make sure it is thawed and well-drained.

2. Mixing the filling: In a large bowl, combine the chopped spinach, grated feta cheese, the 3 beaten eggs, chopped green onions, dill, and parsley. Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Assembling the Pie

1. Dividing the dough: Once the dough has risen, divide it into two equal parts. Roll out one part on a floured surface to form a thin sheet that fits your baking tray (preferably 30x40 cm).

2. Assembling the pie: Place the first sheet of dough in the greased baking tray, spreading it evenly. Add the spinach and cheese filling, then roll out the second sheet of dough on top. Gently prick the pie in several places with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.

3. Brushing the pie: Beat an egg and use it to brush the surface of the pie, giving it a golden and appetizing appearance.

Baking

1. Preheating the oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).

2. Baking the pie: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake the pie for 30 minutes or until it turns golden and crispy.

3. Cooling the pie: Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and brush it with a little water. Cover it with a cloth and let it cool in the tray to retain moisture.

Serving

Spinach and feta pie is delicious both warm and cold. You can cut it into portions and serve it alongside a fresh salad or, for a more rustic experience, with a glass of cold beer. This combination is not only tasty but also comforting.

Tips and Variations

- Cheese variations: You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as telemea or feta, to adapt the pie's flavor to your preferences.
- Add-ins: Consider adding chopped green or black olives or even a few slices of tomatoes for extra flavor.
- International flavors: Transform the pie into a Mediterranean delicacy by adding spices like oregano or basil.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, frozen spinach is an excellent option and can be even more convenient as long as it is well-drained.

2. How can I store the pie?
The pie keeps well in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven to restore its crispy texture.

3. What other recipes can I try?
If you enjoy spinach pie, I recommend trying cheese and zucchini pie or meat and vegetable pie. These recipes are equally delicious and versatile.

Nutritional Benefits

Spinach is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, K, and minerals such as iron and calcium. Additionally, feta cheese provides protein and calcium, making this pie a nutritious and satisfying choice.

Try making this spinach and feta pie and enjoy a delicious meal full of flavor and health. Whether serving it for a special occasion or simply to treat your family to a homemade dish, this recipe will quickly become a favorite! Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: 500 g flour, one egg, 150 ml oil, a cube of yeast, a teaspoon of sugar, 150 ml warm water, 650 g sheep cheese, 700 g spinach, 3 eggs, a bunch of green onions (the tails), a bunch of dill, a bunch of parsley, salt, pepper