Spinach and Potato Pie

Spinach and Potato Pie

This spinach and potato pie is an excellent choice for a tasty lunch, a light dinner, or even an elegant appetizer. It is a versatile recipe, perfect for both family meals and gatherings with friends. The pie combines the crispy texture of puff pastry with a soft and flavorful filling, offering an explosion of flavors in every bite.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Necessary ingredients:

- 700 g potatoes
- 400 g fresh spinach leaves
- 1 head of garlic
- 50 g butter (preferably of good quality)
- 250 g cow's cheese (or feta cheese)
- 4 eggs
- 1 package of puff pastry (about 500 g)
- 1 tablespoon sour cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Preparation and history of the recipe:

Spinach and potato pie has deep roots in culinary tradition, being commonly found in various forms in kitchens around the world. This recipe is a wonderful combination of simple ingredients, which not only complement each other perfectly but are also very nutritious. Spinach is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, while potatoes, being a staple food, add consistency and flavor.

Step by step to achieve the perfect result:

1. Preparing the potatoes:
- Peel the potatoes and wash them well under cold water.
- Cut them into uniform cubes for even cooking.
- Boil them in a pot of water, adding a teaspoon of salt and a bit of vegetable seasoning (optional, for extra flavor).
- Boil the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes or until they become soft but not mushy. Once done, drain them and mash them with half of the butter until you get a smooth puree.

2. Preparing the spinach:
- Wash the spinach leaves in cold water, then drain them well to remove excess water.
- Chop the spinach finely.
- Peel the garlic head and crush it.
- In a pan, add the remaining butter and sauté the crushed garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned.
- Add the spinach leaves, salt, and pepper to taste. Sauté the spinach until wilted, about 3-4 minutes, then remove the pan from the heat.

3. Preparing the filling:
- In a large bowl, mix the potato puree with the sautéed spinach, add the grated cheese, and 3 of the 4 eggs. Mix the composition well and check the taste, adding salt and pepper if necessary.

4. Assembling the pie:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Line a large baking tray with parchment paper.
- Roll out half of the puff pastry in the tray, making sure it reaches the edges of the form.
- Place half of the spinach and potato filling on the pastry, then roll the remaining pastry with the rest of the filling. Ensure that the two rolls are well sealed at the ends.
- Prick the pie with a fork here and there to allow steam to escape during baking.

5. Finishing and baking:
- Beat the remaining egg together with the tablespoon of sour cream and brush the pie with this mixture to achieve a golden and shiny crust.
- Bake the pie in the oven for 40-50 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and crispy.

Serving suggestions:

This spinach and potato pie is delicious both warm and at room temperature. You can serve it alongside a fresh vegetable salad or with a garlic yogurt sauce to balance the flavors. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine pairs perfectly with this dish.

Vegetarian option:

For a vegetarian option, you can replace the cow's cheese with soy cheese or goat cheese, which will add a slightly different but equally tasty note.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, frozen spinach is an excellent option. Make sure to fully thaw it and remove excess water before using.

2. How can I store the pie?
The pie keeps well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven to restore its crispness.

3. What other ingredients can I add?
You can add sautéed mushrooms, green onions, or even olives to vary the flavors.

4. What are the nutritional benefits of this pie?
Spinach is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, while potatoes provide complex carbohydrates that keep you full longer. This pie is a good source of protein due to the cheese and eggs.

This spinach and potato pie is not only a delicious dish but also an excellent way to introduce vegetables into your diet. Dare to experiment with the ingredients and personalize it to your taste! Enjoy!