Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pre-made pie crust
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup Berner Alpkäse cheese, grated
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Special Equipment Needed:
- 9-inch pie dish
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Skillet
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted.
4. Remove the skillet from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
5. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper.
6. Add the cooled spinach mixture and grated Berner Alpkäse cheese to the mixing bowl and stir until well combined.
7. Pour the mixture into the pre-made pie crust.
8. Bake the pie for 35-40 minutes or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
9. Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 250
Fat: 16g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Protein: 12g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Berner Alpkäse cheese can be substituted with any other hard cheese, such as cheddar or parmesan.
- Fresh spinach can be substituted with frozen spinach, but it should be thawed and drained before use.
Variations:
- Add diced cooked bacon or ham for a meatier version.
- Use a different type of cheese, such as feta or goat cheese, for a different flavor.
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a pop of color and flavor.
Tips and Tricks:
- Be sure to let the spinach mixture cool before adding it to the egg mixture to prevent the eggs from cooking too quickly.
- Use a fork to poke holes in the bottom of the pie crust before adding the filling to prevent it from becoming soggy.
- Cover the edges of the pie crust with foil if they start to brown too quickly.
Storage Instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat the pie in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve the pie on a platter with a garnish of fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil.
Garnishes:
Fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil.
Pairings:
- A crisp green salad with a vinaigrette dressing.
- A glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Roasted vegetables, such as carrots or Brussels sprouts.
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the pie crust becomes too brown before the filling is cooked, cover the edges with foil and continue baking until the center is set.
- If the filling is too runny, bake the pie for a few more minutes until it is set.
Food Safety Advice:
- Be sure to cook the pie until the center is set and the top is golden brown to ensure that the eggs are fully cooked.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly before eating.
Food History:
Berner Alpkäse is a traditional Swiss cheese made from the milk of cows that graze in the Alps during the summer months. It has a nutty, slightly sweet flavor and is often used in traditional Swiss dishes, such as fondue and raclette.
Flavor Profiles:
The Berner Alpkäse and spinach pie has a savory, slightly nutty flavor from the cheese, balanced by the earthy flavor of the spinach.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the pie as a main course for lunch or dinner, or as a side dish for a brunch or potluck.
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Region: Swiss