Spinach and Feta Pie

Every year, Manhattan’s Ninth Avenue comes alive with an international food festival in June. Among the diverse offerings, there’s a Greek bakery near 46th Street known for its unforgettable spinach and feta pie. This savory and satisfying dish captures the essence of Mediterranean flavors and can be enjoyed as a delightful centerpiece at your own table.

Serves: 8

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 bunch fresh spinach (about 4 cups)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 1 cup grated Swiss cheese
• 2 eggs
• 1 1/2 cups light cream
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Pinch of nutmeg
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 (10-inch) deep-dish pie crust, prebaked for 5 minutes at 375°F
• 6 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 medium tomatoes, sliced (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Prepare the Spinach: Heat the oven to 350°F.
2. Wash and stem the fresh spinach, yielding about 4 cups.
3. Steam the spinach until it’s wilted, then squeeze out any excess water and finely chop it.
4. Sauté the Onion: Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a small skillet.
5. Add the chopped yellow onion and cook until it turns golden, which should take about 7 minutes.
6. Toss the sautéed onion with the chopped spinach and stir in the grated Swiss cheese.
7. Blend the Egg Mixture: In a blender, combine 2 eggs, 1 1/2 cups of light cream, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, a pinch of nutmeg, and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
8. Blend for about 1 minute until the mixture is well combined.
9. Assemble the Pie: Spread the spinach and onion mixture into the prebaked pie crust.
10. Add the Feta Cheese: Top the spinach mixture with crumbled feta cheese.
11. Decorate with Tomatoes (Optional): Optionally, arrange slices of 2 medium tomatoes on top for an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal.
12. Pour in the Egg Mixture: Pour the blended egg mixture over the pie, making sure it evenly soaks through to the crust.
13. Bake: Bake the pie in the preheated oven at 350°F for approximately 45 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the pie comes out clean.
14. Serve: Serve the spinach and feta pie hot or at room temperature, allowing the flavors to shine.

This Spinach and Feta Pie is a culinary journey to the heart of the Mediterranean. With a delectable combination of fresh spinach, Swiss cheese, feta cheese, and aromatic seasonings, this dish offers a taste of Greek cuisine that you can savor at home. The added touch of tomatoes, if desired, adds a pop of color and extra flair.

Whether enjoyed as a main course or a savory side dish, this pie will undoubtedly become a favorite in your household. Its rich, creamy texture and harmonious blend of ingredients make it a delightful centerpiece for family gatherings or special occasions. Share in the flavors and traditions of a beloved New York food festival with this homemade spinach and feta pie.