Spinach and Swiss chard pie.

Spinach and Swiss Chard Pie - An Explosion of Flavors in a Desired Crust

When it comes to quick, delicious, and healthy recipes, spinach and Swiss chard pie holds a top spot in the heart of any food lover. This recipe not only combines tasty ingredients in a surprising way but also provides a perfect opportunity to teach loved ones to appreciate green vegetables.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total: 50-60 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 package of puff pastry (230 gr)
- 500 gr fresh spinach and Swiss chard
- 5-6 slices of bacon (optional, for a flavor boost)
- 2-3 green onions (or one regular onion)
- 1 clove of garlic
- 2-3 tablespoons grated parmesan
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- A splash of white wine (optional, for a subtle flavor)
- 1 egg yolk (for a golden crust)

Recipe history:
Spinach and Swiss chard pie is a dish with deep roots in traditional cuisine, having a history that spans centuries. The use of green vegetables has always been valued, considering their nutritional benefits. Spinach and Swiss chard are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, recognized for their contribution to a healthy lifestyle. Combined with bacon and cheese, these vegetables take on a wonderful flavor that delights both children and adults.

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by finely chopping the green onions. If you don't have green onions, a regular onion will do just fine. Cut the bacon into thin strips so it browns evenly.

2. Cooking the base: In a skillet, add a bit of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bacon, allowing them to brown for 5-7 minutes. This step will add a rich flavor to your base.

3. Washing the vegetables: In the meantime, wash the spinach and Swiss chard thoroughly under running water. Tear them into smaller pieces, being careful to remove any tougher stems.

4. Adding the vegetables: When the bacon and onion have turned golden, extinguish the heat with a splash of white wine. Let the alcohol evaporate, then add the spinach and Swiss chard to the skillet. Cover with a lid and let simmer on low heat until the vegetables soften and release their juices, about 5-10 minutes.

5. Seasoning: Once the spinach and Swiss chard have softened and released water, remove the skillet from heat and add the crushed garlic clove, salt, pepper, and grated parmesan. Mix all the ingredients well to obtain a homogeneous composition.

6. Preparing the puff pastry: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Roll out the puff pastry sheet in a baking tray. Make sure the sheet evenly covers the bottom of the tray, leaving a 1-2 cm edge.

7. Filling the pie: Place the spinach and Swiss chard mixture on half of the pastry sheet. Cover with the other half and gently press the edges to seal the pie. Cut slits on the surface with a knife to allow steam to escape during baking.

8. Brushing: Beat the egg yolk and brush it evenly over the surface of the pie. This will give it a tempting golden color after baking.

9. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the pie is nicely browned. Every oven is different, so be sure to check regularly to avoid burning.

10. Serving: Once the pie is ready, let it cool slightly before cutting. It is delicious both warm and at room temperature, so you can enjoy it anytime.

Practical tips for a perfect result:
- If you want to add a touch of freshness, you can include some fresh herbs like dill or parsley in the vegetable mixture.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and add feta or ricotta cheese to enrich the flavor.
- If you like the crispy texture of the crust, you can sprinkle some sesame or poppy seeds on top before baking.
- This pie pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad and a simple dressing of olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

Frequently asked questions:
1. What are the nutritional benefits of spinach and Swiss chard?
Spinach is rich in iron, vitamin K, vitamin A, and antioxidants, while Swiss chard contributes fiber and essential vitamins. Together, these vegetables help strengthen the immune system and maintain bone health.

2. Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! You can experiment with goat cheese, mozzarella, or even cottage cheese for a different texture.

3. How can I store the pie to keep it fresh?
If you have leftovers, store the pie in an airtight container in the fridge. It can be reheated in the oven to regain its crispy texture.

Ideal pairings:
This spinach and Swiss chard pie pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or a fresh lemonade. You can also serve it alongside a creamy vegetable soup for a complete and comforting meal.

In conclusion, spinach and Swiss chard pie is more than just a simple recipe; it’s a way to bring health to the plate, weaving flavors and textures in a delicious way. So put on your apron, prepare your ingredients, and enjoy every moment of this culinary adventure! Bon appétit!