Sicilian Spinach Pie
Sicilian Spinach Pie is a savory, flaky pastry filled with fresh spinach, Parmesan cheese, black olives, and aromatic sautéed onions. Its rich flavors and crispy crust make it perfect for a hearty lunch or casual dinner, appealing to lovers of Mediterranean cuisine and vegetable-filled pies.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Have a 13 x 9-inch baking dish ready.
- Use 1 tablespoon of olive oil to grease the baking dish.
- In the dish, heat the remaining oil and sauté the chopped onion over medium-low heat for 15 minutes.
- Add the chopped black olives and sauté for an additional 5 minutes.
- Set the onion and olive mixture aside.
- Cut the pizza dough in half and roll out one piece to fit the bottom and sides of the prepared dish.
- Press the rolled dough into the dish.
- Sprinkle 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the dough.
- Layer the fresh spinach on top of the Parmesan cheese.
- Scatter the sautéed onion and olive mixture over the spinach.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese on top.
- Roll out the second piece of dough and place it over the filling.
- Make 6 to 8 holes in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the crust is golden brown.
- Serve the Sicilian Spinach Pie hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the spinach layer. If fresh spinach isn't available, you can use frozen spinach; just be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture. You can also substitute the Parmesan with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano for a different taste. Additionally, using homemade pizza dough can elevate the dish significantly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Sicilian Spinach Pie hot, garnished with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil. It pairs beautifully with a side of Mediterranean recipes like a refreshing Sesame Tossed Salad or Broccoli With Garlic And Lemon. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light soup or a simple tomato salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Sicilian Spinach Pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, but the crust may lose its crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sicilian Spinach Pie contains roughly 357 calories, with 10g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (79% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (47% of the Daily Value), and iron (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 make the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the onion and olive mixture a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and assemble the pie when you're ready to bake. This can save time on the day you plan to serve the dish.
What can I use instead of black olives?
If you don't have black olives, green olives can be a great alternative, adding a different flavor profile. Alternatively, you could omit the olives entirely or replace them with sun-dried tomatoes for a unique twist.
Can I freeze the Sicilian Spinach Pie?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked pie wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep.
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).