Spinach pie with feta cheese and rice

Spinach, feta cheese, and rice pie

This spinach, feta cheese, and rice pie recipe is a delicious and healthy choice, perfect for any meal, whether it's a family dinner or a gathering with friends. The combination of ingredients offers an explosion of flavors and textures, and the final result is a golden, crispy pie filled with a rich and nutritious mixture.

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Preparation time: 25 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Required ingredients

For the dough:
- 500 g flour
- 1 tablespoon coarse salt
- Water as needed (approximately 200-250 ml)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon vinegar

For the filling:
- 1 kg fresh spinach (or frozen)
- 1 kg feta cheese
- 1 large onion
- 1 cup rice (approximately 150 g)
- Salt, pepper, a bit of vegeta (optional)
- Fresh dill, chopped
- 1 beaten egg for brushing

The story of the recipe

The spinach and feta cheese pie has a rich history, being a beloved dish in various cultures. Over time, it has become a symbol of healthy cooking and culinary comfort. This recipe stands out not only for its refined taste but also for the versatility of the ingredients, which can be adapted according to personal preferences. Spinach, a nutrient-rich vegetable, pairs perfectly with feta cheese, bringing a savory balance.

Preparing the filling

1. Start by sautéing the onion. Chop the onion finely and place it in a pan with a little olive oil. Sauté over medium heat until translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This is the perfect time to add additional flavors, such as a crushed garlic clove or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper if you like it a bit spicy.

2. If using fresh spinach, wash it well and boil it in boiling water for 2-3 minutes to soften it. If using frozen spinach, thawing it is sufficient. After boiling, drain the spinach well and chop it finely.

3. Add the chopped spinach to the pan over the sautéed onion. Mix well, allowing the ingredients to combine for a few minutes.

4. Add a cup of water and the washed rice. Boil everything over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the rice absorbs the water, about 15 minutes. Once the rice is cooked, let the filling cool.

5. Once the mixture has cooled, add the grated feta cheese, salt, pepper, and fresh dill. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly integrated.

Preparing the dough

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour with the salt. Add the olive oil and vinegar, then start adding water gradually, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until you obtain a smooth and elastic dough. It is important not to add too much water at once but to adjust the amount according to the desired consistency.

2. Divide the dough into two equal parts. Cover them with a damp towel and let them rest for 15 minutes. This will help relax the gluten, making the dough easier to roll out.

Assembling the pie

1. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius.

2. On a floured surface, roll out the first piece of dough into a round shape large enough to cover the bottom and sides of a round baking pan lined with parchment paper.

3. Place the spinach, feta cheese, and rice filling in the center of the dough, spreading it evenly.

4. Roll out the second piece of dough and place it over the filling. Seal the edges with your fingers to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.

5. With a brush, brush the surface of the pie with the beaten egg for a golden and shiny crust.

Baking

1. Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, until golden and crispy. You will know it’s ready when it spreads an irresistible aroma throughout the house!

2. After removing the pie from the oven, let it cool for 10 minutes before cutting. This will help stabilize the filling so it doesn’t spill when served.

Serving suggestions and variations

The spinach, feta cheese, and rice pie can be served warm or cold, alongside a fresh vegetable salad or a yogurt sauce with dill, which adds an extra touch of freshness. If you want to experiment, you can add sautéed mushrooms or olives to the filling for a more complex flavor.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, frozen spinach is an excellent choice and saves time. Make sure to thaw and drain it well before use.

2. How can I store the pie?
Keep the pie in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven to restore its crispy texture.

3. Is it possible to make the pie dough from store-bought pastry?
Absolutely! Using store-bought pastry sheets will save you time and simplify the preparation process.

Nutritional benefits

This pie is rich in nutrients, having a high content of vitamins and minerals due to the spinach, which is an excellent source of iron, calcium, and antioxidants. Feta cheese adds protein and calcium, while rice contributes complex carbohydrates that provide energy.

Estimated calories

A serving of pie (approximately 1/8 of the pie) contains about 300-350 calories, depending on the specific ingredients used.

Continue dreaming of the aroma and texture of this savory pie and don’t hesitate to experiment and put your personal touch on the recipe! Cooking is an art, and each recipe becomes more special when personalized. Happy cooking!