Spinach Tart

Spinach Tart: A Green Delight

Who doesn't love a delicious tart filled with rich spinach? This spinach tart recipe is not only simple but also quick, perfect for a light lunch or an elegant dinner. Spinach, with its green and healthy leaves, not only adds nutrients but also provides a vibrant color to this dish. So, let's begin our culinary journey!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 200 g all-purpose flour
- 100 g soft butter (at room temperature)
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons cold water or milk
- A pinch of salt

For the filling:
- 500 g fresh spinach (cleaned, washed, and blanched) or frozen spinach
- 1-2 bunches of green onions (finely chopped)
- 3 eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A handful of grated telemea cheese (or feta for a stronger flavor)

Step by Step: Making the Spinach Tart

1. Preparing the Dough:
Start by preparing the pastry. If you have a food processor, use it to combine the flour with the soft butter. If not, you can do this with a mixer or even by hand. Place the flour in a bowl, add the cubed butter, and mix quickly until the mixture resembles cornmeal. Add the egg and mix again, then incorporate the cold water or milk. Work the dough until it becomes smooth, but don't over-knead it, or it will harden when baked! Form a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 20 minutes.

2. Preparing the Filling:
In a pot, add the fresh spinach and chopped green onions. If using frozen spinach, ensure it is thawed beforehand. Add a little water and let them cook on low heat for 5 minutes, stirring gently until the spinach wilts. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once the mixture is ready, let it cool slightly.

3. Preheating the Oven:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. This is an ideal temperature for baking the tart evenly, ensuring the dough becomes crispy and the filling is well-cooked.

4. Forming the Tart:
Remove the dough from the refrigerator and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a round shape, about 3-4 mm thick. Place the dough in a greased tart pan. Spread it evenly across the bottom and up the sides. Use a fork to prick the dough at the base of the pan to prevent it from puffing up during baking.

5. Baking the Dough:
Cover the dough with a sheet of baking paper and add beans or a weight on top to keep it flat. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. After this time, remove the pan, take off the weights and the baking paper.

6. Filling and Final Baking:
In a separate bowl, beat the 3 eggs. Add the spinach and onion filling, mixing well. Pour the spinach mixture into the tart pan, smoothing it out. Sprinkle the grated telemea on top. Place the pan back in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the filling sets and turns golden.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Once the tart is ready, let it cool slightly before slicing. It can be served warm, but it is just as delicious cold. You can add a fresh green salad on the side for a crunchy contrast and a note of freshness.

Drink suggestions:
This tart pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or a chilled herbal tea, which will complement the delicate flavors of the spinach and cheese.

Tips and Variations

- Frozen Spinach: If you don't have access to fresh spinach, you can use frozen spinach, which is just as tasty and nutritious. Make sure to thaw and drain it well before use.
- Cheese: Instead of telemea, you can use goat cheese or mozzarella for a different flavor. Experimenting with cheeses can add a unique touch to your tarts.
- Add-ins: You can add sautéed mushrooms or olives for a variety of flavors. Additionally, fresh herbs like dill or parsley can enhance the taste.

Nutritional Benefits

Spinach is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, being rich in vitamin K, vitamin A, vitamin C, and folic acid. It also contains antioxidants that help protect the body. This tart is not only tasty but also healthy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other vegetables?
Of course! You can replace spinach with zucchini, broccoli, or even a mix of vegetables to add more variety.

How long does the tart last?
The tart can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days in an airtight container. You can reheat it in the microwave or oven to restore its crispy texture.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this spinach tart is perfect for vegetarians, being rich in protein due to the eggs and cheese.

In conclusion, this spinach tart is not only a simple recipe but also a wonderful way to bring a touch of greenery to your meals. It is perfect for any occasion and can be customized according to your preferences. So, put on your apron and let's cook together!

 Ingredients: Ingredients for dough: 200 g flour, 100 g soft butter, 1 egg, 2 tablespoons cold water or cold milk, a pinch of salt. Filling: 500 g spinach already cleaned, washed and blanched / frozen spinach also works well, 1-2 bunches of green onions, 3 eggs, salt, pepper, a handful of grated telemea cheese.