Spinach and cheese tart

Cheese and Spinach Tart – A classic delicacy, full of flavor and color

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Welcome to our kitchen! Today we will explore a wonderful recipe for cheese and spinach tart, which is not only delicious but also a healthy choice for any meal. This tart is popular in many cultures, often prepared for special occasions or as part of everyday meals. Its savory taste and creamy texture make it a favorite among many food lovers.

Ingredients:

*For the dough:*
- 200 g butter (preferably at room temperature)
- 400 g flour
- 2 eggs
- 12 tablespoons cold water
- A pinch of salt

*For the filling:*
- 500 g cottage cheese (you can also use goat cheese for a stronger flavor)
- 300 g spinach (can be fresh or frozen, but make sure to thaw and drain well)
- A pinch of pepper
- 1 egg + 1 egg white
- 2 tablespoons milk
- Salt to taste
- A pinch of nutmeg (this ingredient will add a subtle note of flavor)

*For brushing:*
- 1 egg yolk
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 20 g sesame seeds (for extra crunch)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the dough: Start by placing the soft butter in a large bowl. Add the two eggs, flour, cold water, and a pinch of salt. Use a spatula or your hands to knead the ingredients until you obtain a homogeneous dough. It is important not to knead too much, as this would activate the gluten, making the dough elastic and difficult to roll out. Once you have a uniform dough, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step is essential as it will help firm up the butter, giving the tart a perfect texture.

2. Preparing the filling: In the meantime, prepare the filling. In a blender or bowl, add the cottage cheese and spinach. If using fresh spinach, make sure to wash it well and chop it finely. Blend well until you obtain a homogeneous mixture. Then, add the beaten egg, egg white, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Mix everything with a spatula or wooden spoon until the ingredients are well integrated.

3. Assembling the tart: Remove the dough from the refrigerator and divide it into two equal parts. On a floured surface, roll out one sheet of dough, being careful not to make it too thin. Place the sheet of dough in a greased and floured baking dish. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges.

4. Adding the filling: Pour the cheese and spinach mixture over the rolled-out dough in the dish, spreading it evenly. Now, take the remaining dough and roll it out again. Use a heart-shaped cutter or any desired shape to cut out shapes from the remaining dough. Place these shapes on top of the filling, starting from the edges and working towards the center. This technique will not only look good but will also contribute to even baking.

5. Finishing: In a small bowl, mix the egg yolk with the two tablespoons of milk. Use a pastry brush to glaze the tart with this mixture, which will give it a golden and shiny color during baking. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for added texture and an attractive appearance.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and place the tart inside. Bake for about 50 minutes, or until the tart is golden brown and the filling is well cooked. The aroma that will fill your kitchen while baking will be absolutely irresistible!

Serving suggestions: This cheese and spinach tart is delicious both warm and cold. It can be served as an appetizer or as a main dish, alongside a fresh green salad with a lemon and olive oil dressing. It also pairs perfectly with a glass of white wine or herbal tea.

Possible variations: You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or mozzarella, to give it a personal touch. If you like a spicier flavor, add some slices of chili pepper to the filling. You can also replace spinach with other green vegetables, such as broccoli or nettles.

Nutritional information: A serving of tart contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the ingredients used. Spinach is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, while cottage cheese provides valuable protein and calcium. This tart is an excellent choice for a healthy lunch or a light dinner!

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess water in the filling.

2. How long can I keep the tart?
The tart can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. It can be reheated in the oven to restore its crunchy texture.

3. Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this tart is completely vegetarian and can be an excellent choice for those following a meat-free diet.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to start cooking! This cheese and spinach tart will surely become your favorite, and its savory taste will impress your family and friends. Enjoy your meal!