This golden, flaky pie features a rich filling of tender spinach, creamy feta and ricotta cheeses, eggs, and fragrant herbs like dill and nutmeg. The spinach is sautéed with onion and garlic for deep flavor and combined with cheeses to create a smooth, luscious texture. Encased in crispy puff or shortcrust pastry and topped with sesame seeds, this dish offers a balanced blend of flaky and savory elements. Ideal for lunch or dinner, it can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, paired nicely with crisp whites.
Discovering this savory spinach pie was like finding a little treasure in my grandmother's recipe box—flaky, golden, and filled with creamy cheese and aromatic herbs, it quickly became my go-to comfort food.
I remember the first time unexpected guests dropped by, and I whipped up this pie using leftover spinach and pastry—it disappeared in minutes and everyone asked for the recipe.
Ingredients
- Pastry: Puff or shortcrust pastry works beautifully, but make sure it’s thawed gently to keep that perfect flakiness
- Spinach: Fresh is best for flavor and texture, but frozen is a great time-saver if you squeeze out excess moisture
- Feta Cheese: Crumbled for that salty punch; goat cheese swaps in nicely for a tangier twist
- Ricotta Cheese: Adds creaminess and balances the feta’s bite
- Eggs: Bind the filling and help it set beautifully
- Dill: Fresh chopped dill gives a burst of herbal brightness, but dried can work in a pinch
- Olive Oil: For sautéing and adding that Mediterranean aroma
- Sesame Seeds (Optional): Sprinkle on top for a subtle crunch
- Seasonings: Nutmeg, salt, and freshly ground black pepper are the small touches that elevate the flavor
Instructions
- Get Everything Ready:
- Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F) and grease your pie dish, letting the warmth prepare the stage for your savory masterpiece.
- Sauté the Spinach Filling:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and gently soften the onions until translucent. The scent of garlic joining the mix will evoke that homey feeling. Cook your spinach just until wilted, then press out moisture—a key step to prevent sogginess.
- Mix & Combine:
- In a bowl, bring together the cooled spinach blend, crumbled feta, ricotta, eggs, dill, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir with care, imagining the flavors melding as they should.
- Prepare the Pastry Shell:
- Roll out your thawed pastry to fit the pie dish with some charming overhang. It’s like giving your filling a cozy blanket.
- Fill & Finish:
- Spoon in the filling, smooth the top, then gently fold pastry edges over. Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle sesame seeds for a golden, inviting crust.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Let the oven work its magic for 35–40 minutes until golden brown and set. The smell wafting through your kitchen is pure anticipation.
- Cool & Serve:
- Give the pie a 10-minute rest—this pause sets the filling perfectly and makes slicing a joy.
This pie isn’t just food—it’s the centerpiece of cozy lunches and the comfort that fills the room when friends gather around the table.
Serving Ideas That Clicked
Pair this pie with a crisp green salad and a drizzle of lemon vinaigrette to cut through its richness. It’s a total crowd-pleaser that balances hearty and fresh with ease.
Adapting Through the Seasons
Swap fresh herbs like dill for mint or parsley in summer, or add sautéed mushrooms and sun-dried tomatoes in autumn for a twist that keeps each bite interesting.
A Time This Recipe Saved the Day
When last-minute guests showed up on a chilly afternoon, this pie was pulled from my freezer stash and baked while we chatted—a comforting win that turned strangers into friends.
- Always keep a sheet of pastry in the freezer for moments like these
- If you forget an ingredient, a pinch of any aromatic herb helps cover your bases
- Leftovers reheat beautifully in a low oven to regain crispiness
Thanks for joining me in this kitchen adventure—here’s to many golden, flaky slices shared with good company.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of spinach works best for this pie?
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Fresh spinach provides the best texture and flavor, but frozen spinach can be used after thawing and draining excess moisture.
- → Can I substitute the cheeses in the filling?
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Yes, feta cheese can be replaced with goat cheese for a tangier flavor while maintaining creaminess.
- → How do I prevent the pastry from getting soggy?
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Make sure to thoroughly drain the cooked spinach mixture and allow it to cool before filling to avoid excess moisture.
- → What pastry is recommended for this dish?
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Either puff pastry or shortcrust pastry works well, depending on the preferred texture—flaky or crumbly.
- → Is it possible to add extra ingredients?
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Yes, sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes can enhance the flavor and add depth to the filling.