Spinach pie

Spinach and Sheep Cheese Pie - A Savory Delight

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

Welcome to the world of culinary delights! Today, I will share with you a charming recipe for spinach and sheep cheese pie, inspired by rich traditions that blend unforgettable flavors and textures. This recipe is not only an excellent choice for a quick lunch or dinner, but also a perfect option for a picnic or festive meal. So, let’s get started!

A Brief Story about Spinach Pie

Spinach pies have a long history in Mediterranean cuisine and are appreciated for their delicious combination of fresh ingredients. This specific recipe, with sheep cheese, adds a touch of flavor and creaminess, thanks to the cheese that melts perfectly into the filling. The origin of these pies can be traced back to ancient traditions when people used available ingredients to create nourishing and comforting meals.

Necessary Ingredients

- 1 package of pie sheets (400 g)
- 1 kg of fresh spinach leaves (about 2 kg of fresh spinach to obtain the necessary leaves)
- 1 small leek
- 1 onion
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- 400 g of sheep cheese
- 3 eggs
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
- 60 g of butter
- 50 ml of virgin olive oil (preferably unrefined)

Practical Tips for Ingredients

- Spinach: Choose fresh spinach with bright green leaves, avoiding yellowed or wilted leaves. Frozen spinach can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before use.
- Sheep cheese: This adds a salty and creamy taste. If you cannot find sheep cheese, a good alternative would be feta cheese or cottage cheese, but the taste will be different.
- Olive oil: Use virgin, unrefined olive oil for a more intense and healthy flavor. This type of oil has a dark green color and is rich in antioxidants.

Step by Step - The Guide to Preparing the Pie

1. Prepare Ingredients: Wash the spinach leaves well under cold water, then let them drain for a few minutes. Cut the spinach into smaller pieces. Clean the leek and onion, then chop them finely.

2. Sauté the Onion and Leek: In a large skillet, add the two tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the onion and leek, sautéing for 5-7 minutes or until they become translucent. Sprinkle with salt and stir. Then, add the spinach and continue to sauté everything for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

3. Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, beat the 3 eggs. Add the grated sheep cheese, chopped dill, and freshly ground pepper. Mix well, then add the spinach and sautéed onion mixture. Homogenize the composition.

4. Prepare the Baking Tray: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a 30x40 cm tray with the melted butter and olive oil mixture.

5. Assemble the Pie: Place 6 sheets of pie in the tray, greasing each sheet with the butter and oil mixture. Add the spinach and cheese filling, leveling it evenly. Then, place the other 6 sheets of pie on top, greased the same way. Finally, grease only the last sheet with olive oil.

6. Cut and Bake: Using a sharp knife, cut the pie into squares or rhombuses, being careful not to cut all the way through. This will make portioning easier after baking. Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes or until it becomes golden and crispy on top.

7. Finalization and Serving: After the pie is baked, let it cool for 10 minutes before portioning. It is delicious both warm and cold. You can serve it as is or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Variations and Suggestions

If you want to experiment with this recipe, try adding other ingredients to the filling, such as chopped black olives, goat cheese, or even some chopped nuts for added texture. You can also use green onions instead of leeks for a lighter flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use frozen spinach?: Yes, but make sure to drain it well.
- How can I keep the pie for longer?: It can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days in airtight containers. It can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- What drinks pair well with the pie?: This pie pairs perfectly with plain yogurt or a dry white wine. A fresh lemonade can also be a refreshing choice.

Nutritional Benefits

This pie is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals due to the spinach, which is rich in iron, calcium, and vitamins A and C. The sheep cheese adds protein and calcium, while the olive oil provides healthy fats.

The spinach and sheep cheese pie is more than just a simple recipe; it is a culinary experience that brings flavor and tradition directly to your table. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your loved ones and enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!