Spinach and cheese tart

Spinach and Cheese Tart - A Delicacy Made with Love

The spinach and cheese tart is not just a simple dish, but a true celebration of flavors, a recipe that harmoniously combines fresh ingredients and delicious aromas. This tart can quickly become a family favorite, being ideal both as a main course and as a snack or appetizer. And the best part is that you can prepare it together with the little ones - a fun activity that will teach them about cooking and the importance of healthy foods.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 500 g fresh spinach or 300 g frozen spinach
- 1 small onion
- 150 g grated cheese (feta, telemea, or cottage cheese)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt, to taste
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 egg
- 300-350 g phyllo dough
- Butter for greasing the sheets

Ingredient Tips:
- Spinach: If using fresh spinach, make sure to choose whole, green leaves without spots. Frozen spinach is a convenient alternative, but be sure to thaw and drain it well before use.
- Cheese: You can experiment with different types of cheese. Feta adds a salty note, while cottage cheese provides a creamier texture.
- Phyllo Dough: If you can't find phyllo dough, you can use puff pastry, but the tart will have a different texture.

Step-by-Step Preparation:

1. Preparing the Spinach: If using fresh spinach, wash it well under cold running water to remove any impurities. Boil it in salted water for 2-3 minutes, then drain and let it cool. If using frozen spinach, make sure it is thawed and well-drained to eliminate excess water.

2. Sautéing the Onion: In a skillet, add olive oil and sauté the finely chopped onion until it becomes translucent. This process will highlight the natural sweetness of the onion.

3. Adding the Spinach: Once the onion is ready, add the drained spinach and oregano. Add a cup of water and let it simmer for a few minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt to taste.

4. Tart Filling: Turn off the heat and let it cool slightly. In a bowl, combine the sautéed spinach with grated cheese and the beaten egg. Mix well to obtain a homogeneous mixture.

5. Assembling the Tart: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a baking dish with butter and sprinkle a little flour to prevent sticking. Place a first layer of phyllo dough, brushed with melted butter, making sure to cover the bottom of the dish well. Then add the spinach and cheese mixture, covering it with another layer of phyllo dough, also brushed with butter.

6. Baking: Bake the tart for about 40 minutes or until it becomes golden and crispy.

7. Serving: The spinach and cheese tart can be enjoyed warm or cold. For a delicious experience, you can serve it with a garlic yogurt sauce, which will add a refreshing and flavorful note.

Serving Suggestions:
This tart is perfect for a family meal or a party. You can accompany it with a fresh vegetable salad or a glass of dry white wine, which will perfectly complement the flavors.

Possible Variations:
If you want to explore new flavors, you can add pieces of sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or even a bit of dill to the spinach mixture. These will add extra flavor and originality.

Nutritional Benefits:
Spinach is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron and calcium, making it an essential ingredient for a balanced diet. Cheese brings quality protein, while the egg contributes to a fluffy texture of the filling.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other vegetables? Yes, you can replace spinach with kale, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- How can I store the tart? The tart keeps well in the fridge for a few days, and the flavor actually improves the next day!
- Is it suitable for vegans? Yes, you can adapt the recipe using tofu instead of cheese and omitting the egg.

Now that you know all the secrets to preparing a delicious spinach and cheese tart, all that’s left is to start cooking. Every bite will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones! Bon appétit!