Spinach Pie

Delicious Spinach and Cheese Pie Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 35-40 minutes
Total: 55-60 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Welcome to my kitchen! Today, I will guide you step by step in making a spinach and cheese pie, a hearty and healthy dish perfect for any meal. This simple and tasty recipe is not only an excellent choice for lunch or dinner but also a wonderful way to incorporate vegetables into your diet without sacrificing flavor.

A Brief Introduction to the History of Pie

Spinach pie has its roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures, combining simple yet flavorful ingredients. Whether enjoyed in a savory or sweet version, pie is a symbol of comfort and family meals. Spinach, an easy-to-prepare ingredient, adds not only color but also a wealth of nutrients.

Ingredients

- 500 g fresh spinach (or frozen, but fresh is preferable for better taste)
- 4 sheets of pastry (yufka, very thin sheets)
- 3 eggs
- 200 g natural yogurt
- 250 g telemea cheese (or feta cheese, if you prefer a saltier taste)
- 100 g grated parmesan
- 100 ml olive oil (a bit more for greasing the pan)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

1. Wash and chop the spinach: Start by washing the spinach thoroughly under cold running water. If using frozen spinach, make sure it is thawed and excess water is drained. Once clean, chop it finely. Fresh spinach will add a vibrant flavor to your pie.

2. Grate the cheese: Use a large grater to grate the telemea and parmesan cheese. This will help integrate the cheeses evenly into your mixture.

Step 2: Preparing the Mixture

1. Mix the cheese with the spinach: In a large bowl, combine the chopped spinach with the telemea and parmesan cheese. Add a pinch of salt and freshly ground pepper to enhance the flavors. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.

2. Beat the eggs and yogurt: In another bowl, beat the 3 eggs with the yogurt and 50 ml of olive oil. This mixture will act as a binding agent for the pastry sheets and will add a creamy texture.

Step 3: Assembling the Pie

1. Greasing the pan: Preheat the oven to 190-200 degrees Celsius. Grease a baking dish with a little olive oil to prevent the pie from sticking.

2. Layering the pastry sheets: Take the first sheet of pastry and brush it with the yogurt and egg mixture. Place a portion of the spinach and cheese mixture along one edge of the sheet and roll it up tightly to form a log. Place the log in the prepared dish. Continue this process with the remaining sheets, alternating between brushing and filling, until all ingredients are used.

3. Finalizing the assembly: You can form a spiral or arrange the logs in a circular shape, depending on your preference. It’s important to ensure that the logs are tightly packed in the pan to prevent them from opening during baking.

Step 4: Baking

1. Bake the pie: Once the pie is assembled, place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the pie turns golden and crispy on top. The aroma that will fill your home will be irresistible!

2. Cooling: After the pie is done, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. This will help stabilize the filling.

Serving and Suggestions

The spinach and cheese pie can be served warm or at room temperature. It pairs deliciously with a fresh green salad or tzatziki sauce. You can also enjoy it with a glass of buttermilk or a dry white wine, which will perfectly complement the flavors.

Variations and Helpful Tips

- Add other ingredients: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like leeks or mushrooms. You can also add spices such as nutmeg or marjoram for an extra flavor boost.
- Pastry sheets: If you can’t find yufka sheets, you can use regular pastry sheets. Just make sure to brush them well to prevent drying out.
- Cook multiple servings: This pie keeps well in the fridge and can be reheated the next day. You can prepare it in advance and serve it at a festive meal.

Nutritional Benefits

Spinach is rich in vitamins (A, C, K) and minerals (iron, calcium), while telemea cheese adds quality protein. This pie is not only delicious but also nutritious, offering a wealth of health benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use frozen spinach?: Yes, frozen spinach is a good option. Just make sure it is thawed and well-drained to avoid a soggy mixture.
- How can I make the pie crispier?: You can add a little melted butter between the pastry sheets for a crispier texture.

I encourage you to try this simple and delicious spinach and cheese pie recipe. Whether you prepare it for a regular meal or a special occasion, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone! Enjoy your meal!