German Spinat-Kasetortchen(Spinach And Cheese Pie)
A savory German spinach and cheese pie with a flaky crust, rich in Swiss cheese and fresh spinach, perfect for brunch or light dinners, appealing to cheese lovers and vegetarians.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stir flour and salt into a large bowl; cut in butter until mixture is fine crumbs.
- Add water gradually until dough is moist enough to form a soft ball.
- Chill the dough.
- Roll out the dough and place it in a 12-inch quiche pan.
- Prick the crust with a fork.
- Line the crust with foil and fill with dry beans to hold it in place.
- Bake at 425°F for 15 minutes.
- Reduce oven temperature to 325°F.
- Remove the foil and beans, then return the crust to the oven.
- Bake until golden brown.
- Allow the crust to cool.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier crust, consider using a food processor to blend the flour and butter. If fresh spinach is unavailable, frozen spinach works well; just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can elevate the flavor. If Gruyere cheese is too strong for your taste, a mild Swiss cheese is an excellent substitute without compromising texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Spinach and Cheese Pie warm, garnished with a sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg. It's excellent alongside a light salad, such as a Chop Chop Salad, for a balanced meal. Pair it with a glass of white wine for a delightful dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the pie in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crust soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of German Spinat-Kasetortchen(Spinach And Cheese Pie) contains roughly 697 calories, with 20g protein, 107g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (65% of the Daily Value), iron (49% of the Daily Value), and calcium (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 758mg per serving (33% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Gruyere is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like feta or mozzarella for different flavors. Just ensure the cheese melts well to maintain the pie's creamy texture.
How do I know when the crust is done baking?
The crust is ready when it turns a deep golden brown and has a firm texture. If you're unsure, gently press the edges; they should feel crisp to the touch. Remember, it will continue to cook slightly as it cools.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pie a day in advance. Assemble it without baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).