Spinach Pie With Muenster Crust
A savory spinach pie with a cheesy Muenster crust, combining tender spinach, squash, and Parmesan for a rich, flavorful dish perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Line a 10-inch pie plate with overlapping slices of Muenster cheese, covering the bottom and three-quarters of the way up the sides.
- Combine cooked and well-drained spinach, defrosted orange squash, cottage cheese, well-beaten eggs, chopped small onion, grated Parmesan cheese, dill, and pepper.
- Spread the mixture evenly over the cheese-lined pie plate.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 1 hour.
- Allow to stand for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using low-fat cottage cheese and reducing the amount of Muenster cheese. You can also substitute fresh spinach for frozen if preferred; just sauté it first to reduce moisture. Adding herbs like basil or oregano can enhance the flavor. If you want a crunchier texture, sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Spinach Pie with a light side salad, such as a Tomato, Montrachet And Basil Salad, to complement its rich flavors. It also makes a great brunch dish or appetizer for gatherings. Pair it with a glass of chilled white wine for an elegant touch. For a full Mediterranean meal, consider serving it alongside Zucchini Pate.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This pie can also be enjoyed cold as a refreshing snack.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach Pie With Muenster Crust contains roughly 592 calories, with 18g protein, 98g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (35% of the Daily Value), calcium (35% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 659mg per serving (29% 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 fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh spinach can be used instead of frozen. You'll need about 1 pound of fresh spinach. Sauté it in a little olive oil until wilted, then allow it to cool and drain excess water before adding it to the mixture.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pie up to a day in advance. Assemble it, then cover and refrigerate it before baking. When ready to serve, simply bake it as directed. This is a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
What can I substitute for Muenster cheese?
If Muenster cheese isn't available, you can substitute with Monterey Jack or Gouda for a similar creamy texture and flavor. Alternatively, a mix of mozzarella and cheddar can also work well in this recipe.
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).