Spinach and cheese pie

Spinach and cheese pie: a delicious and simple recipe

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Preparation time: 45 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Introduction

Spinach and cheese pie is a dish that combines the delicate flavor of fresh spinach with the richness of cheese, all wrapped in a crispy and tasty pastry. This recipe is not only an ideal choice for lunch or dinner but also a perfect appetizer for festive meals. The origins of this pie are deeply rooted in the culinary traditions of many cultures, where seasonal vegetables are incorporated into pastry dishes, offering a delightful blend of textures and flavors that tantalize the taste buds.

Necessary ingredients

For the dough:
- 500 g flour
- 1 packet dry yeast (or 25 g fresh yeast)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon oregano (optional)
- 60 ml oil
- Warm water (about 200 ml, but add gradually)

For the filling:
- 1 kg fresh spinach
- 2 eggs
- 1 tablespoon lard (or oil)
- 300 g telemea cheese (or a mix of feta and ricotta for a more complex flavor)
- 1 bunch of green onions (or 1 dry onion, if preferred)
- Fresh dill, chopped (optional)

Step by step: Preparing the pie

1. Preparing the dough:
In a large bowl, combine the flour with the yeast, salt, and oregano. These dry ingredients will form the base of your pie. If using fresh yeast, dissolve it in warm water before adding it. Gradually add the oil and warm water, mixing with a spatula until the dough starts to come together.

2. Kneading the dough:
Transfer the dough to a clean work surface and knead for 10-15 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover it with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 30 minutes, or until it doubles in size.

3. Preparing the filling:
Meanwhile, prepare the filling. Wash the spinach well under cold water, then tear it into smaller pieces without blanching. In a pan, add the lard or oil and sauté the finely chopped green onions (or dry onion) for a few minutes until translucent. Add the spinach and cook over medium heat until it wilts. Let the mixture cool, then add the beaten eggs, crumbled cheese, and chopped dill. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.

4. Assembling the pie:
Once the dough has risen, divide it into two equal parts. Roll out the first portion on a floured surface until you get a thin sheet. Place the sheet in a greased tray, ensuring the edges are slightly raised. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the sheet to absorb moisture from the filling, then add the spinach and cheese mixture.

5. Finalizing the pie:
Roll out the second sheet of dough and place it over the filling. Gently press the edges with your fingers to seal the pie. With a sharp knife, make slits in the pie to allow steam to escape during baking. Beat the two egg yolks with a little water and, if desired, add a pinch of cumin for extra flavor. Brush the pie with this mixture.

6. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (moderate heat) and bake the pie for about 30 minutes or until golden and crispy. The aroma that will spread throughout the house will be simply irresistible!

Serving and variations

The spinach and cheese pie is delicious both warm and cold. You can serve it alongside a fresh tomato and cucumber salad or with a garlic yogurt sauce, which will perfectly complement the flavors. If you want to experiment, try adding other ingredients to the filling such as sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or even olives for a Mediterranean taste.

Useful tips

- Spinach: Always choose fresh spinach with green, crisp leaves. If you can't find it, you can use frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and squeeze it well before use.
- Cheese: Telemea cheese is ideal for this recipe, but feel free to experiment with feta or ricotta for a different texture.
- Dough: If you want a quicker option, you can use ready-made pastry sheets.

Nutritional information

This pie is a good source of protein due to the cheese and eggs, while spinach provides a high intake of vitamins and minerals. It is an excellent choice for a balanced meal, with approximately 250-300 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, but make sure to squeeze it well after thawing.

2. What other cheeses can I use?
You can experiment with feta, ricotta, or even mozzarella for a creamier filling.

3. Can I prepare the pie in advance?
Yes, the pie can be prepared a day ahead, and the next day you can bake it directly.

4. How can I store the pie?
You can keep it in the refrigerator, covered, for 2-3 days. Reheat it in the oven to restore its crispy texture.

Conclusion

The spinach and cheese pie is not only a delicious recipe but also a wonderful way to include vegetables in your diet. Enjoy every bite of this delicacy, which brings a touch of joy to every meal. Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: for the dough: 500 g flour, yeast, salt, oregano, 60 ml oil. composition: 1 kg fresh spinach, 2 eggs, 1 tablespoon lard, 300 g telemea cheese, dill (optional), 1 bunch of green onions.