Spinach and feta tart
Spinach and feta tart – a perfect combination of flavors and textures that blends tradition with a refined taste. This recipe is ideal for a family meal, a dinner with friends, or even to impress guests on a special occasion. Here’s how to prepare a delicious and appetizing tart, step by step.
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 8
Ingredients
For the tart dough:
- 500 g flour
- 200 g butter (or margarine, if you prefer a vegan option)
- 1 egg
- 4-5 tablespoons cold milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the filling:
- 1 kg fresh spinach (you can also use frozen spinach, but the fresh taste is unmatched)
- 500 g feta cheese
- 2 eggs
- 100 g cheese
- 2 onions
- 2 cloves of garlic
The history of spinach and feta tart
The spinach and feta tart has deep roots in Mediterranean cuisines, where fresh vegetables and cheeses are the basis of many dishes. This tart is not only a delicious option but also an excellent way to incorporate vegetables into daily meals. Spinach, rich in iron and vitamins, combined with feta cheese, which adds a salty note, makes this tart a nutritious and flavorful choice.
Step by step: Preparing the tart
1. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour with the salt. Add the diced butter and mix with your fingers until you achieve a sandy texture. It’s important for the butter to be cold to obtain a flaky dough. This is an essential technique in making any tart.
2. Adding the egg and milk: To the flour mixture, add the egg and cold milk. Mix gently until the dough starts to come together. Form a ball from the dough and cover it with plastic wrap. Let it rest in the refrigerator for an hour. This process will allow the gluten to relax, making the tart easier to roll out.
3. Dividing and rolling out the dough: After the dough has chilled, divide it into two equal portions (you will get two tarts). On a floured surface, roll each portion into circles about 3-5 mm thick. Place the dough in a greased tart pan, making sure to remove any air bubbles.
4. Preparing the crust: Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 180°C. Use a fork to prick the dough, then bake it in the oven for 10 minutes. This will help prevent the dough from puffing up.
5. Preparing the filling: Wash the spinach well and boil it in salted water for 2-3 minutes, just until it softens. After boiling, place it in a colander to drain well. Once cooled, chop the spinach finely.
6. Mixing the ingredients: In a bowl, combine the chopped spinach with crumbled feta cheese, sautéed onion (which should be slightly translucent), and crushed garlic. Add the beaten eggs and mix well. It’s important not to add salt, as feta cheese is already salty.
7. Assembling the tart: After the crust has been baked, sprinkle a little semolina on the bottom of the tart; this will absorb moisture from the filling. Pour the spinach and cheese mixture into the tart shell, leveling it evenly. Grate cheese on top for a golden and delicious crust.
8. Baking the tart: Place the tart in the oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until a golden crust forms and the filling is well cooked. The aroma that will fill your kitchen during this time will be simply irresistible!
9. Serving: Let the tart cool for a few minutes before cutting it. You can serve it warm or at room temperature. It’s delicious alongside a fresh salad or a garlic yogurt sauce.
Useful tips
- Frozen spinach option: If you choose to use frozen spinach, make sure to completely thaw and drain it before use.
- Delicious additions: You can also add black olives or red peppers to the filling for an extra flavor boost.
- Vegetarian tart: This recipe is completely vegetarian but can also be adapted for vegans by replacing feta cheese with a plant-based alternative.
- Storing the tart: If there are leftovers, the tart keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven to regain its crispy texture.
Nutritional benefits
The spinach and feta tart is not only delicious but also nutritious. Spinach is rich in iron, calcium, and vitamins A, C, and K, while feta cheese provides quality protein. This tart is an excellent choice for a balanced meal, with a moderate calorie content that varies depending on the serving sizes.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with other cheeses, such as ricotta or goat cheese, to achieve different flavors.
2. Can I freeze the tart before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled tart, but unbaked. You can bake it directly from the freezer, adding a few minutes to the baking time.
3. What drinks pair well with the tart?
A spinach and feta tart pairs well with a dry white wine or a refreshing herbal tea.
The spinach and feta tart is a simple and versatile recipe that harmoniously combines taste and health. I trust that by following these steps, you will achieve a delicious tart that will impress everyone! Enjoy!
Ingredients: Tart dough: -500 g flour -200 g butter or margarine -1 egg -4-5 tablespoons cold milk -1 teaspoon salt Filling: -1 kg fresh spinach -500 g feta cheese -2 eggs -100 g cheese -2 onions -2 cloves garlic
