Spinach spiral pie

Spinach Spiral Pie – a delicious and simple recipe

Spring brings with it the green richness of nature, and one of the most appreciated vegetables during this season is spinach. This versatile plant is so full of nutrients and vitamins that it quickly becomes a favorite for many, including little Alex, who prefers to consume it in the form of pies or tarts. Today, I will share with you a tasty recipe for spinach spiral pie, which is not only easy to prepare but also extremely flavorful.

Total preparation time: 50 minutes
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Ingredients:

- 1 package of phyllo dough (brands like Bella or Linco are recommended)
- 1 kg of fresh spinach
- 250 g of telemea cheese (preferably well-aged for an intense flavor)
- 3 eggs (2 for the filling and 1 for brushing)
- Butter or oil for brushing the phyllo sheets
- 2 cloves of garlic
- Salt (to taste, depending on how salty the telemea is)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Prepare the spinach: Start by washing the spinach thoroughly under cold running water. Make sure no sand remains, and the leaves are clean. In a large pot, add water and bring it to a boil. Add the spinach and let it boil for 2-3 minutes, just enough to soften. The boiling time is important to preserve the vibrant color and nutrients.

2. Drain and chop the spinach: After the spinach has boiled, drain it well and let it cool slightly. Then, chop it finely. A quick option is to pass it through a meat grinder, as I do, to achieve a uniform texture.

3. Prepare the filling: In a bowl, mix the chopped spinach with the two beaten eggs, crushed garlic, and grated telemea cheese. If you feel the filling is salty, do not add extra salt, as the telemea will provide enough flavor.

4. Prepare the phyllo sheets: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the phyllo sheets on a working surface and start brushing them with melted butter or oil. Layer three sheets together to create a sturdier base.

5. Form the pie: Add a portion of the spinach filling to the top edge of the layered sheets. Roll the sheets tightly, forming a log. Then, place the log in a spiral shape in a baking tray lined with parchment paper, being careful not to unravel it.

6. Bake the pie: Beat the third egg and brush the top of the pie to achieve a golden and appetizing crust. Bake for about 30 minutes or until the pie is crispy and golden.

7. Serving: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. It is delicious both warm and cold, and can be served with a fresh green salad or a yogurt sauce with dill.

Nutritional benefits: Spinach is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron and calcium. Telemea cheese adds protein and calcium, while garlic is known for its antioxidant properties. This pie is not only tasty but also healthy!

Possible variations: If you want to experiment, you can add other ingredients to the filling, such as sautéed mushrooms, olives, or even some nuts for a crunchy texture. You can also replace telemea cheese with feta for a saltier taste.

Serving suggestions: This spinach spiral pie pairs perfectly with a glass of drinking yogurt or a fresh smoothie. You can also combine it with a light white wine for an elegant dinner.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it well and squeeze out the excess water before using it.

2. How can I store the pie?
Keep the pie in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. It can be reheated in the oven to regain its crispy texture.

3. Is this a suitable recipe for a diet?
Yes, considering the simple and healthy ingredients, this pie can be a good choice, but consumed in moderation, given the phyllo dough.

So, do not hesitate to try this spinach spiral pie recipe! It is an excellent option for a snack, appetizer, or even a light main dish. Enjoy every bite and savor the essence of spring in each slice!