Spinach and quail egg pie

Spinach and Quail Egg Pie: a delicious combination of flavors and textures, perfect for a savory brunch or an easy-to-make dinner. This recipe is not just a treat for your taste buds, but also a wonderful way to bring a touch of creativity into your kitchen. I will guide you through the steps to prepare a spinach and quail egg pie that will delight both family and friends.

Preparation time: 40 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 300 g flour (preferably type 000 for a fine texture)
- 100 g butter (soft, at room temperature)
- 120 g sour cream (choose one with a high-fat content for a rich flavor)
- 1 egg + 1 yolk
- 1 tablespoon vinegar (white wine vinegar is ideal)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- A pinch of salt

For the filling:
- 18 quail eggs (about 3 quail eggs per serving)
- 300 g spinach (frozen or fresh)
- 150 g cottage cheese (not too wet, preferably high quality)
- 18 cubes of telemea cheese (for an intense flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley, finely chopped

A brief story about spinach and quail egg pie

Pies with various fillings have a long-standing tradition in global cuisine, with roots that stretch back in time. From rustic country pies to more sophisticated versions in restaurants, every culture has embraced pies as a way to use available ingredients to create nourishing meals. Spinach and quail egg pie is a modern take on this concept, combining tradition with healthy ingredients.

Step by step: How to prepare spinach and quail egg pie

Step 1: Prepare the dough

1. In a large bowl, add the softened butter and mix it with the sour cream using a paddle mixer or whisk until you achieve a smooth and fluffy cream. This step is crucial for ensuring a light texture in the dough.
2. Add the whole egg, yolk, and vinegar. Continue mixing until well incorporated.
3. In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Then, gradually add the flour mixture to the bowl with the wet ingredients, mixing gently until you obtain a smooth dough.
4. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for a few minutes until it becomes elastic. Then, shape it into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and place it in the fridge for an hour. This step will help the dough cool and become easier to roll out.

Step 2: Prepare the filling

1. If using frozen spinach, thaw it and drain it well. If you choose fresh spinach, blanch it in salted water for 5 minutes, then drain and chop it finely.
2. In a bowl, mix the prepared spinach with the crumbled cottage cheese, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper to taste. The delicious flavors of the cheese and parsley will perfectly complement the spinach.

Step 3: Assemble the pie

1. Boil the quail eggs for 4-5 minutes, then cool them in cold water and carefully peel them.
2. Remove the dough from the fridge and roll it out on a floured surface into a thin rectangular sheet, leaving a 2 cm edge.
3. Place the spinach filling on the dough, spreading it evenly. Arrange the quail eggs in a line along the length of the dough, followed by the cubes of telemea cheese. Repeat this process to create another row of eggs and cheese cubes.
4. Carefully roll the dough, tightening it well so that the filling does not escape.

Step 4: Baking

1. Place the pie in a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Preheat the oven to 190°C.
2. Place the tray in the oven and bake the pie for 10 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 180°C and continue baking for 35-40 minutes, or until the pie is golden and crispy.
3. When done, let the pie cool before slicing. This step is essential to allow the flavors to settle.

Serving and suggestions

The spinach and quail egg pie is delicious both warm and at room temperature. You can serve it alongside a fresh salad of tomatoes and cucumbers or with a garlic yogurt sauce for a contrast of flavors.

Variations and useful tips

- Vegetarian option: You can add mushrooms or zucchini to the spinach filling to diversify the flavors.
- For an intense flavor: Add a few thin slices of bacon or sausage to the filling.
- A garnish idea: A sour cream sauce with herbs will perfectly complement the pie.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with feta or mozzarella for a different flavor.

2. How can I store the pie?
The pie stores well in the fridge in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven to restore its crispy texture.

3. How many calories does one serving have?
One serving of pie contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used. It is a healthy option, rich in protein and vitamins due to the spinach and eggs.

Nutritional benefits

Spinach is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, including iron, calcium, and vitamins A and C. Quail eggs are rich in protein and low in calories, making this pie not only delicious but also nutritious.

Conclusion

Spinach and quail egg pie is an inspired choice for any meal. Easy to prepare and full of flavors, it is sure to become one of your favorite recipes. I encourage you to try it and experiment with the ingredients, adding your personal touch to this classic recipe. Enjoy every bite and share it with your loved ones!