Greek pie with salty cheese

Greek cheese pie - a savory and easy-to-make recipe, perfect for moments when you want to indulge in a delicious dish alongside a cold drink! This pie, with a crispy texture and creamy interior, is ideal for both breakfast and a delightful snack. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients:
- 1 package of phyllo dough (about 400g)
- 700g Greek cheese (a combination of feta and telemea)
- 250g cream cheese
- 3 tablespoons Greek yogurt
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 egg yolks (plus 2 for brushing)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 170g butter
- Olives for serving (optional)

Ingredient details:
- Greek cheese: Feta adds a salty note and a crumbly texture, while telemea contributes a delicious creaminess. You can also experiment with other types of cheese, but make sure they are salty.
- Cream cheese: This helps achieve a smooth and creamy mixture, ideal for blending the flavors of the cheeses.
- Greek yogurt: Not only does it improve the texture, but it also adds a note of acidity that balances the saltiness of the cheese.
- Parsley: Its freshness will provide a pleasant contrast to the intense flavors of the cheese.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the filling: In a large bowl, add the Greek cheese, cream cheese, Greek yogurt, 3 egg yolks, and chopped parsley. Use an electric mixer or a spatula to combine the ingredients until you achieve a smooth and creamy mixture. Taste the mixture and adjust the saltiness if necessary.

2. Preparing the baking tray: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Line a round baking tray, approximately 26-28 cm in diameter, with baking paper. Make sure the paper is well stretched to prevent the pie from sticking.

3. Assembling the pie: Take a sheet of phyllo dough and brush it with a little olive oil. Then, add a tablespoon of the cheese mixture to one edge of the sheet and roll it tightly. If the sheets are too thin, you can use two sheets for each roll. Place the rolls in a circle in the tray, overlapping them slightly to create an appealing look.

4. Brushing the pie: Once you have arranged all the rolls, beat the remaining two egg yolks and brush the surface of the pie evenly. This will contribute to a golden and appetizing crust.

5. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake the pie for 30-40 minutes, or until it becomes golden and crispy. During baking, the aroma will fill the kitchen and make your appetite grow.

6. Adding the butter: When the pie is ready, melt the butter in a small saucepan. With a knife, gently open the seams between the rolls to allow the butter to seep in. Pour the hot melted butter over the pie and let it absorb the flavors for a few minutes.

7. Serving: Serve the pie warm, garnished with olives on a plate alongside a fresh salad or as an appetizer. It is delicious and pairs perfectly with a cold beer or a fragrant white wine.

Practical tips:
- Variations: You can add ingredients such as spinach, dill, or green onions to the filling to diversify the flavors. Additionally, experimenting with different combinations of cheeses can bring surprising tastes.
- Storing the pie: If you have leftover pie, you can store it in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat it in the oven to restore its crispy texture.
- Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use store-bought phyllo dough? Absolutely! Store-bought phyllo dough is very convenient and saves time.
- What drinks pair well with this pie? A cold blonde beer or a dry white wine are excellent choices that complement the flavors of the pie.

Nutritional benefits:
The pie contains a good source of protein from cheese and eggs, while Greek yogurt brings beneficial probiotics for digestion. Additionally, parsley adds essential nutrients and antioxidants.

Personal note:
This salty cheese pie is a dish that reminds me of moments spent with family, gathering around the table to savor the delights cooked with love. Whether you serve it on a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, every bite will be a delicious memory.

I wish you happy cooking and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen!