Here’s a recipe for Layered Pie with Spinach, Cheese, and Walnut Filling—a savory pie with a deliciously rich and nutty filling.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1-2 tbsp cold water, as needed
For the filling:
- 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese (or ricotta or goat cheese)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional, such as cheddar or Gruyère)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the crust:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a food processor, combine the flour, butter, Parmesan cheese (if using), and salt. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the beaten egg and pulse until the dough starts to come together. If needed, add cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough forms a ball.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it out to fit your pie dish.
- Transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie dish and press it into the bottom and sides. Trim any excess dough. Prick the bottom with a fork.
2. Pre-bake the crust:
- Place the pie crust in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes. Remove and let cool slightly.
3. Prepare the filling:
- Heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted and any excess moisture has evaporated. Remove from heat.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream or milk, ground nutmeg (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Stir in the crumbled feta cheese and chopped walnuts.
- Mix in the cooked spinach and onion mixture.
4. Assemble the pie:
- Pour the spinach and cheese filling into the pre-baked pie crust.
- If using, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top.
5. Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown.
6. Serve:
- Allow the pie to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, you can add herbs like dill or thyme to the filling.
- If you prefer a richer filling, you can use a combination of cheeses or add a bit of cream cheese.
This Layered Pie with Spinach, Cheese, and Walnut Filling is a savory and satisfying dish that’s perfect for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner. Enjoy!
