Spinach and feta tart

Spinach and feta tart: a delicious and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Who doesn’t love a tart? This spinach and feta tart is not only an excellent choice for a light lunch or a quick dinner, but also a delicious way to add healthy vegetables to our diet. Spinach, rich in nutrients, pairs perfectly with salty feta cheese, creating a combination that will delight your taste buds.

A bit of history: The tart is a versatile dish found in various forms around the world. From sweet fruit tarts to savory ones like this spinach and feta tart, it has been a symbol of refined gastronomy. This type of dish has been cooked and served in many cultures, becoming a favorite at family meals and special occasions.

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 package of puff pastry (about 250g, store-bought)
- 200-300g frozen spinach (or fresh, if you prefer)
- 3 large eggs
- 200ml liquid cream
- 200-250g feta cheese (half for filling, half for decoration)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil (optional, for greasing the pan)

Ingredient details:

1. Puff pastry: It is an excellent choice for this recipe due to its airy and crispy texture. If you want to experiment, you can make the dough from scratch, but a store-bought version is quick and convenient.
2. Spinach: If using frozen spinach, make sure to completely thaw and drain it well to avoid excess water. Fresh spinach can also be used, but it should be quickly sautéed before adding it to the mixture.
3. Feta cheese: This adds a salty flavor note, perfect for balancing the taste of spinach. If you don’t have feta cheese, you can use goat cheese or ricotta for a different flavor.

Step 1: Preparing the dough
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat).
- Place parchment paper in the round tart pan (about 24 cm in diameter) and roll out the puff pastry, ensuring it is evenly distributed on the bottom and sides.
- Use a fork to poke the dough in several places, preventing air bubbles from forming during baking.

Step 2: Preparing the filling
- In a large bowl, beat the 3 eggs with a whisk or fork, then add the liquid cream. Continue mixing until everything is well combined.
- Add the drained spinach and crumbled feta cheese (reserving half for decoration) and mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Be careful with the salt, as feta is already salty.

Step 3: Assembling the tart
- Pour the spinach and cheese mixture into the prepared tart pan, spreading it evenly over the dough.
- Grate the remaining feta cheese on top for added flavor and an appetizing appearance.

Step 4: Baking
- Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tart is golden and the filling is set. You can check if it’s done by inserting a knife in the center; if it comes out clean, the tart is perfectly baked.

Step 5: Serving
- Allow the tart to cool for a few minutes before cutting it. This helps stabilize the filling. Serve the tart warm or at room temperature, alongside a fresh green salad or a portion of Greek yogurt for an even more delicious taste.

Serving suggestions:
- This tart pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or a refreshing cucumber and mint-based cocktail.
- You can add some sliced cherry tomatoes on top for a color contrast and an extra freshness.

Possible variations:
- Instead of spinach, you can use nettles or kale to experiment with different flavors.
- Add some diced ham or bacon for a heartier and more filling version.
- If you like a spicier taste, add some chopped chili pepper to the filling mixture.

Nutritional benefits:
- Spinach is an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, beneficial for eye health and the immune system.
- Feta cheese adds calcium and protein, contributing to bone and muscle health.

Calories:
- Approximately 250-300 calories per serving, depending on the serving size and ingredients used. It is a healthy choice, especially if served with a fresh salad.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use fresh spinach?
- Yes, but you need to sauté it quickly before adding it to the mixture to make it easier to integrate.
2. What other cheeses can I use?
- You can try goat cheese or mozzarella, both will provide a different and delicious flavor.
3. How can I store the tart?
- The tart can be stored in the refrigerator in a well-sealed container for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven to regain its crispy texture.

This spinach and feta tart is a simple yet flavorful dish, perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it at a family dinner or bring it to a party, it will surely be appreciated by everyone who tastes it. Enjoy!