Welsh Spinach and Cheese Pie

Ingredients

While the original Torta Pasqualina is an Italian dish made with ricotta cheese and flavored with nutmeg, the Welsh Spinach and Cheese Pie takes inspiration from the traditional Welsh cuisine. It replaces the ricotta cheese with a creamy Welsh cheese, adding a unique tangy flavor to the pie. Additionally, the Welsh version incorporates local herbs and spices to enhance the taste and aroma of the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Torta Pasqualina, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) fresh spinach 500g (1.1 lb) fresh spinach
• 250g (8.8 oz) Welsh cheese, grated 250g (8.8 oz) Welsh cheese, grated
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• 500g (1.1 lb) puff pastry sheets 500g (1.1 lb) puff pastry sheets
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 22g, 12g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 2g
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent.
3. 3.
   Add the fresh spinach to the pan and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and let it cool.
4. 4.
   Once cooled, squeeze out any excess moisture from the spinach and chop it finely.
5. 5.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, grated Welsh cheese, chopped parsley, thyme leaves, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
6. 6.
   Roll out the puff pastry sheets and line a greased pie dish with one sheet, leaving the edges hanging over the sides.
7. 7.
   Spoon the spinach and cheese mixture onto the pastry-lined dish, spreading it evenly.
8. 8.
   Cover the filling with the second sheet of puff pastry. Trim the excess pastry and crimp the edges to seal the pie.
9. 9.
   Brush the top of the pie with beaten egg wash.
10. 10.
    Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crispy.
11. 11.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Spinach — Make sure to thoroughly wash the spinach leaves before cooking to remove any dirt or grit.
• Welsh cheese — Use a creamy and tangy Welsh cheese, such as Caerphilly or Cheddar, to add a distinct flavor to the pie.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a more intense flavor, you can add a pinch of Welsh mustard or a sprinkle of grated Welsh cheese on top of the pie before baking.
• Serve the Welsh Spinach and Cheese Pie warm or at room temperature for the best taste and texture.
• This pie can be made ahead of time and reheated in the oven before serving.

Serving advice

Slice the Welsh Spinach and Cheese Pie into wedges and serve it as a main course accompanied by a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, garnish the pie with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme leaves before serving.