Delicious Italian Spinach Cheese Pie Recipe

This Italian Spinach Cheese Pie is a delicious and comforting dish that combines layers of spinach, cheese, and a savory crust. It is a perfect option for a family meal or a special occasion. The pie is easy to prepare and full of flavor, making it a hit among both kids and adults. Serve it hot from the oven and watch everyone go back for seconds!

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 1/4 cup ice water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (10-ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 3 large eggs, beaten

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and dried oregano. Add the chilled butter cubes and rub it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Gradually add the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into a ball, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
4. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté until translucent and fragrant.
5. Add the thawed and drained spinach to the skillet and cook for a few minutes, until any excess moisture evaporates.
6. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the spinach mixture cool for a few minutes.
7. In a separate mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, dried basil, dried thyme, black pepper, red pepper flakes, nutmeg, and beaten eggs. Mix well.
8. Take the chilled dough from the refrigerator and divide it into two equal portions.
9. On a floured surface, roll out one portion of the dough to fit the bottom of a 9-inch pie dish. Press the dough gently into the dish.
10. Spread half of the cheese mixture over the bottom crust. Top it with the spinach mixture.
11. Pour the remaining cheese mixture over the spinach layer.
12. Roll out the second portion of the dough and place it over the filling. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to seal the pie.
13. Make a few small slits on the top crust to allow steam to escape.
14. Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
15. Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Interesting Facts