Italian ricotta and spinach pie

Welcome to our kitchen, where we’re about to take you on a culinary journey with a recipe that’s destined to become your new favorite: the Savory Ricotta and Spinach Pie. Picture a golden, flaky puff pastry crust enveloping a luscious filling of creamy ricotta cheese and vibrant, tender spinach. This dish is a harmony of flavors and textures that will leave you craving every mouthwatering bite.

What makes this recipe truly exceptional is the way it effortlessly balances simplicity and sophistication. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that looks and tastes like a masterpiece. It’s the perfect recipe to have up your sleeve when you want to impress guests or treat yourself to a comforting and satisfying meal.

The foundation of this pie is the filling, where we marry the richness of cow’s ricotta cheese with the earthy goodness of fresh spinach. The ricotta brings a creamy and velvety texture, while the spinach adds a burst of vibrant color and a subtle hint of sweetness. Combined, they create a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.

To enhance the flavor profile even further, we suggest infusing the filling with additional herbs and spices. A touch of dried oregano or basil can add a delightful Mediterranean twist, transporting you to sun-soaked coastal towns with every bite. And let’s not forget the nutmeg, a warm and aromatic spice that complements the creamy ricotta and adds a subtle layer of complexity to the dish.

As the pie bakes, the puff pastry transforms into a golden crown that encases the glorious filling. Its flaky layers shatter with each forkful, revealing the creamy interior within. The aroma that fills your kitchen is irresistible, a siren’s call to gather around the table and indulge in this culinary masterpiece.

Whether you serve it as the star of a weekend brunch or as a comforting dinner, the Savory Ricotta and Spinach Pie will leave a lasting impression on your taste buds. It pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad, providing a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pie. And the best part? It’s just as delicious served warm or cold, making it a versatile dish that can be enjoyed any time of day.

So, tie on your apron and prepare to embark on a culinary adventure. Get ready to savor the delightful combination of creamy ricotta and tender spinach encased in a golden puff pastry crust. This recipe is a testament to the power of simple ingredients and the joy of creating something truly remarkable in your own kitchen. Let’s dive in and experience the magic of the Savory Ricotta and Spinach Pie together!

Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh spinach
• 12 oz cow’s ricotta cheese
• 1 sheet of puff pastry
• 1 egg + 1 egg yolk for brushing
• 4 oz grated Parmesan cheese
• Pinch of nutmeg
• Salt, to taste
• 1 garlic clove

Instructions

1. Start by preparing the filling for the savory ricotta and spinach pie. Carefully wash the spinach and pat it dry. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the spinach and minced garlic clove. Cook for about 10 minutes until the spinach wilts. Season with salt and remove the garlic.
2. Once cooked, squeeze out any excess water from the spinach and finely chop it. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, a pinch of nutmeg, one beaten egg, and salt to taste. Stir in the chopped spinach until well combined.
3. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the puff pastry sheet and line a 9-inch pie dish with it. Prick the bottom of the pastry with a fork. Pour the spinach and ricotta filling into the pastry-lined dish, spreading it evenly.
4. Fold the edges of the pastry over the filling, creating a decorative crust. Brush the edges with the beaten egg yolk for a golden finish. Bake the pie in the preheated oven for approximately 30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set.
5. Remove the savory ricotta and spinach pie from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Slice and enjoy it warm or refrigerate it for a chilled option.

Notes

• Enhance the Flavor: While the recipe already includes some delicious ingredients, you can further enhance the flavor profile by incorporating additional herbs and spices. Consider adding a teaspoon of dried oregano or basil to the filling mixture. You can also sprinkle some freshly ground black pepper over the spinach before cooking it. These small additions will bring more depth and complexity to the overall taste of the pie.
• Add a Layer of Savory Goodness: To take this recipe to the next level, consider adding a layer of sautéed onions and garlic beneath the spinach and ricotta filling. Simply cook thinly sliced onions and minced garlic in a tablespoon of olive oil until golden and fragrant. Spread this mixture over the puff pastry before adding the filling. The caramelized onions will impart a sweet and savory note that complements the creamy ricotta and earthy spinach.
• Play with Cheese Options: While the recipe calls for cow’s ricotta cheese, feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations. Try substituting half of the ricotta with crumbled feta cheese for a tangy twist. Alternatively, you can use a combination of shredded mozzarella and grated cheddar to add a melty, cheesy element to the filling. Don’t be afraid to get creative and discover your favorite cheese blend!
• Include Some Texture: To add a delightful textural element to the pie, consider incorporating some toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts into the filling. These nuts will provide a pleasant crunch that contrasts with the creamy ricotta and tender spinach. Sprinkle a handful of nuts over the filling before sealing the pie with the puff pastry. The added texture will elevate the overall eating experience.
• Serve with a Fresh Side: While the pie is delicious on its own, serving it with a fresh side salad can provide a vibrant and refreshing contrast. Toss together a mix of baby greens, cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onions, and a simple vinaigrette dressing. The crispness and acidity of the salad will complement the richness of the pie, creating a well-balanced and satisfying meal. Plus, the pop of colors will make the dish visually appealing.