Cheese and herb pie

Cheese and Greens Pie - a delicious and comforting recipe

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40-50 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Welcome to my kitchen! Today I will share a recipe for cheese and greens pie, a classic dish that combines the rich flavor of cheese with the freshness of aromatic herbs. This pie is perfect for a hearty breakfast or as an appetizer at a gathering with friends. Plus, it's easy to prepare, even for those with little experience in the kitchen!

A bit of history

Cheese pie is a dish that has passed through generations, with each family having its own version. It is a symbol of hospitality and kindness, often prepared on holidays or family gatherings. This recipe is a reinterpretation of tradition, updated with fresh and aromatic ingredients that provide an extra flavor.

Necessary ingredients

- 8 sheets of pastry
- 600-700 g sheep cheese
- 250 g sour cream cheese (I recommend Delaco for a creamy taste)
- 6 eggs (plus 2 for brushing)
- 1/2 bunch fresh dill
- 1/2 bunch fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 cup oil (for a rich flavor)

Tips on ingredients

- Choose quality cheese: Sheep cheese has an intense and salty flavor, perfect for enhancing the dish. If you prefer a less salty option, go for cow cheese.
- Fresh herbs are essential: Use fresh dill and parsley to add vibrant flavor. If you don't have them on hand, you can substitute with dried herbs, but the aroma will be different.
- Oil: It's important to use quality oil, as it will influence the final taste of the pie.

Preparation steps

1. Thawing the pastry sheets: Remove the pastry sheets from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This step is essential to avoid tearing them during assembly.

2. Preparing the cheese mixture: In a large bowl, grate the sheep cheese. This will facilitate the subsequent mixing. Then, beat the 6 eggs with the sour cream until you achieve a homogeneous, creamy mixture. Add the sour cream cheese and mix again.

3. Adding the herbs: Wash the dill and parsley, remove the stems, and chop them finely. Incorporate them into the cheese mixture, along with the basil, salt, and pepper. Make sure to adjust the seasonings to taste!

4. Preparing the baking tray: Grease a tray with butter and baking paper. This will help prevent the pie from sticking and ensure even baking.

5. Assembling the pie: Brush 4 sheets of pastry with oil on one side. Layer them on top of each other in the prepared tray, making sure to leave a little edge. Pour the cheese mixture and spread it evenly with a spatula. Then, brush the other 4 sheets with oil and place them on top of the filling.

6. Finishing: Beat the two remaining eggs and brush the surface of the pie with a pastry brush to achieve a golden and appetizing crust.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the tray in the oven and let the pie bake for 40-50 minutes or until it becomes golden and crispy.

8. Serving: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool slightly. It is delicious both warm and cold, and can be served alongside a fresh salad or a garlic yogurt sauce.

Tips for a perfect result

- Pastry sheets: Make sure not to let the pastry sheets dry out during assembly. Cover them with a damp towel as you work.
- Alternative recipes: You can add ingredients such as spinach or mushrooms to diversify the filling. Also, for a more exotic touch, try adding a few slices of feta cheese for an extra flavor boost.
- Serving suggestions: Serve the pie with a glass of dry white wine or a refreshing lemonade. This will perfectly contrast with the rich flavor of the cheese.

Nutritional information

Serving (1/8 of the pie)
Calories: approximately 350-400 kcal
Protein: 18 g
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Fats: 20 g

Nutritional benefits

Sheep cheese is an excellent source of protein and calcium, beneficial for bone health. Additionally, fresh herbs provide an important intake of vitamins and minerals, contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use store-bought pastry sheets?
Yes, store-bought pastry sheets are perfect for this recipe, saving time and effort. Make sure to thaw them well before use.

2. How can I store the pie?
The pie can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, covered with plastic wrap. You can reheat it in the oven before serving.

3. What other fillings can I try?
You can experiment with various fillings, from cheese with spinach to ground meat or mushrooms. Each variation will bring a unique note to the dish.

In the end, I encourage you to try this cheese and greens pie recipe, to explore and adapt the ingredients to your taste. It is an excellent choice for family meals or to impress friends. Enjoy your meal!