Delicious Spinach & Feta Cheese Pie Recipe

Spinach & Feta Cheese Pie, a delightful combination of savory and sweet flavors, is the perfect recipe for those who love Mediterranean cuisine. This pie is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. It’s a dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or served alongside salads as an appetizer.

The cooking time for this dish is approximately 1 hour, including preparation and baking. The servings are generous enough to provide eight slices, making it ideal for family gatherings or potlucks.

Ingredients

1 cup of fresh spinach leaves, washed and drained
8 oz (about a cup) of feta cheese, crumbled
6 eggs, beaten lightly
1/4 cup of flour
3 tablespoons of milk
2 tablespoons of olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Flaky pastry for the top crust (store-bought or homemade)

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Preparing the Pie Crust

Start by preparing your flaky pastry. If you are using store-bought puff pastry, simply roll it out to fit a rectangular pie dish. If making homemade pastry, follow the traditional recipe for perfect layers of flakiness.

Preheat the oven at 350°F (175°C).
Cut the dough to size and place it in your rectangular pie dish. Press down the edges lightly to ensure a secure seal with the sides of the dish.
Bake the crust for about 20 minutes until golden brown, then set aside.

Step 2: Making the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine spinach, crumbled feta cheese, eggs, flour, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated. The filling should be smooth with no lumps.

Once the pie crust is done, remove it from oven and let cool slightly for about 5 minutes. Pour the spinach mixture evenly over the baked base of your pie.
Bake again at 350°F (175°C) for another 40-45 minutes or until the filling has set up well. Ensure you check periodically to ensure it is not overbaking, as this can lead to a dry result rather than a moist and creamy filling.

Step 3: Serving Suggestions

This spinach & feta cheese pie makes an excellent side dish or main course. It pairs well with fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread for a complete meal. For those looking to make the experience more interactive and fun, serving this pie at parties is a hit, especially during winter gatherings.

Health Benefits

This simple spinach & feta cheese pie provides various health benefits. Spinach is packed with vitamins A, C, E, and K as well as several essential minerals like iron and calcium. Feta cheese adds protein to the mix while being low in calories when consumed moderately.

Storage

If you have leftovers, store them properly. Allow the pie to cool completely before covering with plastic wrap or placing it in an airtight container. This dish can be kept for up to three days in the refrigerator.

Variations

To enhance flavor and variety, consider adding some finely chopped garlic into the spinach mixture for a bit of heat. Alternatively, you could also experiment by using different cheeses or herbs based on your preference. You might even try adding a layer of pesto under the spinach for an extra burst of taste.

Tips from Pros

For those who are new to baking or looking to improve their skills, here’s some advice:

Ensure that all ingredients used are fresh and high quality. This will directly impact the flavor profile of your dish.
Baking time can vary slightly depending on your oven type and temperature settings. Always keep an eye on it towards the end to avoid overcooking which could result in a tough texture.
Flaky pastry is essential for this pie as it adds to its unique taste. You might also consider experimenting with different types of flaky pastry to find what you like best.

Spinach & Feta Cheese Pie is more than just a meal; it’s an opportunity to explore and enjoy the diverse flavors that can be created in your kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or entertaining guests, this pie will undoubtedly impress everyone at the table.