Spinach pie

Spinach and Cheese Pie: A Delicacy Cooked with Love

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40-50 minutes
Total time: 70-80 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Introduction

Spinach and cheese pie is a delicious and comforting dish that combines tradition and flavor in a simple yet charming way. This recipe has its roots in traditional cuisine, where rich and aromatic fillings were a way to make the most of available ingredients. Whether enjoyed with family or at a festive table, this pie is sure to bring smiles to the faces of loved ones. Let’s see step by step how to prepare it!

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 300 g flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 150 ml lukewarm milk
- 1 packet (7 g) dry yeast
- A pinch of salt

For the filling:
- 300 g fresh spinach
- 1 bunch green onions
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 150 g sheep cheese
- 100 ml sour cream
- 50 g grated cheese
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon semolina
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Basil and thyme, for flavor (optional)

For brushing:
- 1 egg
- Grated cheese for decoration

Preparing the Dough

1. In a large bowl, mix the flour with the salt and dry yeast. This step is essential to ensure even distribution of the yeast in the dough.
2. Add the oil and gradually incorporate the lukewarm milk. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix the ingredients until the dough starts to form.
3. When the dough becomes less sticky, transfer it to a work surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until it becomes elastic and smooth. This is when the dough will develop gluten, giving it the desired structure.
4. Form a ball with the dough and place it in a bowl greased with a little oil. Cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap and let it rise for 40 minutes in a warm place. The dough will need to rise and become fluffy.

Preparing the Filling

5. Meanwhile, wash the spinach leaves well under cold running water. This step is essential to remove any impurities or pesticides.
6. Blanch the spinach in a pot of boiling salted water for about 3 minutes. This will preserve the vibrant color of the spinach and reduce bitterness.
7. Drain the spinach and let it cool. Once cooled, chop it finely.
8. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and add the chopped green onions. Sauté the onions until translucent, about 2-3 minutes, then add the chopped spinach. Mix well and let cool.
9. In a bowl, combine the sautéed spinach, crumbled sheep cheese, grated cheese, beaten eggs, semolina, sour cream, and seasonings (salt, pepper, basil, thyme). Mix well until you have a smooth filling.

Assembling the Pie

10. Once the dough has risen, preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat).
11. On a floured work surface, roll out the dough into a round sheet about 0.5 cm thick. Make sure the sheet is large enough to cover the bottom and sides of a baking dish.
12. Place the dough sheet in the greased and floured baking dish. Prick the dough with a fork in several places to prevent it from puffing up during baking.
13. Pour the spinach and cheese filling on top, then place slices of Delaco cheese over the entire surface.
14. Roll out the remaining dough and cut it into strips to place over the filling, forming a decorative pattern. This step is not only aesthetic but also helps with even baking of the filling.
15. Beat an egg and brush it evenly over the pie, then sprinkle grated cheese for added flavor.

Baking

16. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake the pie for 40-50 minutes, or until golden and crispy. You will smell the delicious aroma of cheese and spinach spreading throughout the house.
17. Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. This step will help stabilize the filling and make slicing easier.

Serving and Suggestions

The spinach and cheese pie is delicious both warm and cold. You can serve it alongside a fresh salad to add a crunchy and refreshing contrast. A bottle of yogurt or a tomato sauce could also perfectly complement the dish.

Variations and Practical Tips

- You can add different types of cheese, such as feta or ricotta, to change the texture and flavor of the filling.
- If you want a healthier option, you can use whole wheat flour for the dough.
- Replace spinach with other vegetables, such as nettles or zucchini, to create a diversified pie.
- Experiment with spices! Adding freshly grated nutmeg will give a subtle and refined taste to the filling.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of pie contains approximately:
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 15 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, frozen spinach is an excellent choice. Make sure to thaw and drain it well before using.

2. How can I store the pie?
The pie can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container. You can reheat it in the oven to regain its crispy texture.

3. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
For a vegan option, you can use plant-based eggs and cheese. Also, replace the butter with olive oil.

Conclusion

Cooking is an art, and spinach and cheese pie is one of the most beautiful ways to celebrate simple ingredients. This recipe is not only easy to make but also full of flavor and tradition. Whether you are a beginner cook or an experienced professional, this pie will surely become a favorite in your kitchen. Experiment, adapt, and most importantly, enjoy every bite!

 Ingredients: DOUGH 300 g flour 2 tablespoons oil 150 ml milk 1 packet yeast 1 pinch of salt FILLING 300 g fresh spinach 1 bunch green onion 1 tablespoon butter 150 g sheep telemea cheese 100 ml sour cream 50 g grated cheese 2 eggs 1 teaspoon semolina garlic thyme pepper Delaco cheese GREASING 1 egg cheese

 Tags:  spinach pie cheese pie