Spinach pie

Delicious Spinach Tart - a recipe that combines the vibrant colors and delicate flavors of fresh vegetables into a dish that will delight both the eyes and the taste buds. This tart is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a family meal or a gathering with friends. Today, I will guide you step by step in making this simple yet impressive recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Total: 90 minutes
Servings: 6-8

A Brief History
Spinach tart is a dish that has gained popularity in menus around the world due to its versatility. Spinach, a vegetable rich in vitamins and minerals, has been appreciated throughout history, and the combination with cheese and eggs has become classic. This recipe, with deep roots in traditional cuisine, is perfectly adapted to satisfy modern tastes, being easy to prepare and full of nutrients.

Ingredients

For the tart base:
- 200 g whole wheat flour – choosing whole wheat flour adds extra fiber and nutrients.
- 125 g cold butter – ensures a flaky texture.
- 1 teaspoon salt – to enhance the flavors.
- 1 egg – binds the ingredients and provides a pleasant consistency.
- 1 tablespoon cold milk – helps to form the dough.

For the filling:
- 500 g fresh spinach – choosing fresh spinach guarantees a vibrant taste.
- 2 green onions – adds a note of sweetness and freshness.
- 1 bunch of dill – its fresh aroma perfectly complements the spinach.
- 1 bunch of parsley – for added color and freshness.
- 100 g salty cheese – you can use feta or cottage cheese, depending on your preference.
- Salt and pepper – to taste.

For the topping:
- 1 whole egg – adds a creamy texture.
- 3 egg yolks – intensifies the flavor and enriches the composition.
- 300 g sour cream – provides a rich taste and a velvety texture.
- Salt – to taste.

Detailed Instructions

1. Preparing the tart base:
- In a large bowl, sift the whole wheat flour. Add the cold butter cut into cubes, the egg, and the salt. Use your fingers to mix the ingredients until you achieve a homogeneous consistency, similar to wet sand.
- Start adding the milk gradually and continue to knead until the dough becomes elastic. It is important not to over-knead to maintain flakiness.
- Form a ball from the dough, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This will allow the butter to firm up, providing a better texture.

2. Baking the base:
- Preheat the oven to 190 degrees Celsius.
- Once the dough has chilled, roll it out on a floured surface, forming a circle about 10 cm larger in diameter than the tart pan.
- Carefully transfer the dough into the pan, ensuring to cover the edges as well. Trim any excess dough.
- Cover the dough with parchment paper and add beans or pastry weights to prevent puffing. Place the pan in the fridge for 20 minutes.
- Bake the base in the oven for 25 minutes, then remove the paper and beans and bake for another 5 minutes until golden. Let it cool.

3. Preparing the filling:
- Blanch the spinach in salted water for 5 minutes. This process helps retain the vibrant green color and nutrients.
- Drain the spinach and let it cool, then chop it finely.
- In a bowl, chop the green onion, dill, and parsley finely. Mix them with the salty cheese, adding salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the chopped spinach to the herb and cheese mixture, mixing everything well.

4. Preparing the topping:
- In another bowl, beat the whole egg and egg yolks with the sour cream, adding salt to taste. Use a whisk to obtain a uniform mixture.

5. Assembling the tart:
- Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius.
- Place the spinach filling over the tart base, leveling it evenly. Carefully pour the egg and sour cream mixture over it, ensuring it covers the filling evenly.
- Bake the tart for 30 minutes, or until it is lightly browned on top.

Practical Tip
To add extra flavor, you can place a few slices of tomatoes on top of the filling before pouring the egg mixture. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or mozzarella, to achieve varied flavors.

Possible Variations
- Mushroom Tart: Replace spinach with sautéed mushrooms for a delicious variation.
- Vegetarian Tart: Add vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a richer filling.
- Meat Tart: Add previously cooked ground meat to turn the tart into a hearty main dish.

Serving and Pairing
The spinach tart is served warm or at room temperature, making it perfect for a lunch alongside a fresh green salad. You can accompany this dish with a glass of white wine or herbal tea for a special culinary experience.

Nutritional Benefits
Spinach is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium. Additionally, cheese adds quality protein, and eggs contribute to the intake of B vitamins. This tart is not only delicious but also nutritious!

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen spinach? Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before using.
- How long can the tart be stored? The tart can be kept in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and can be reheated in the oven to regain its crispy texture.

Enjoy your meal! This spinach tart will delight your senses and bring a touch of greenery to your meals. I encourage you to experiment and put your personal touch on this recipe, transforming it into your unique creation!