Spinach Orzo Pie

Spinach Orzo Pie Recipe - Authentic Egyptian Dish

Region / culture: Egypt | Servings: 6

Introduction

Spinach Orzo Pie is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the flavors of orzo pasta, spinach, and cheese in a savory pie. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.

History

The origins of Spinach Orzo Pie are not clear, but it is believed to have Italian roots. The combination of orzo pasta, spinach, and cheese is a classic Italian flavor profile that has been enjoyed for generations.

Ingredients

1.5 cups cooked and drained orzo
15 oz (425 g) jar of your favorite spaghetti sauce
0.5 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 10 oz (283 g) package frozen chopped spinach
1 cup ricotta cheese (can use low fat)
1 egg
A pinch of grated nutmeg
Shredded mozzarella cheese
9" or 10" pie pan

How to prepare

In a bowl, combine cooked orzo, half of the tomato sauce, egg, and parmesan. Line the bottom and sides of a pie pan with the mixture.
Cook spinach according to the package instructions and drain well.
In a separate bowl, mix together spinach, ricotta, and nutmeg. Spread the filling over the prepared base. Top with the remaining tomato sauce (you may not need all of it).
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 30 minutes.
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Variations

You can customize this recipe by adding other vegetables like roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes to the filling mixture. You can also experiment with different types of cheese for added flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to drain the cooked orzo well before mixing it with the other ingredients to prevent the pie from becoming too watery.

- Make sure to thoroughly drain the cooked spinach to avoid excess moisture in the filling.

- You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite herbs or spices to the filling mixture for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Spinach Orzo Pie with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It also pairs well with a glass of red wine.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a successful Spinach Orzo Pie is to properly drain the orzo and spinach to avoid excess moisture in the filling. Be sure to follow the cooking instructions carefully for best results.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have orzo pasta, you can use another small pasta shape like penne or fusilli. You can also substitute the spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a different flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the filling for Spinach Orzo Pie ahead of time and assemble the pie just before baking. This dish also reheats well, so you can make it in advance and enjoy it throughout the week.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Spinach Orzo Pie in slices on a plate, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil. You can also drizzle a balsamic reduction over the top for added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Spinach Orzo Pie pairs well with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light red wine like Pinot Noir. It also goes well with a side of garlic bread or bruschetta.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Spinach Orzo Pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Spinach Orzo Pie contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Spinach Orzo Pie contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Spinach Orzo Pie contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Spinach Orzo Pie contains approximately 10 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Spinach is a rich source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron and calcium. This dish provides a healthy dose of these essential nutrients.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (parmesan and ricotta cheese) and eggs. It may not be suitable for those with dairy or egg allergies.

Summary

Spinach Orzo Pie is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, particularly from the spinach.

Summary

Spinach Orzo Pie is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. With a creamy spinach and cheese filling and a crispy orzo crust, this pie is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was a warm summer day, the kind where the sun shines bright and the birds sing sweet melodies. I was visiting my dear friend Clara, who lived in a quaint little cottage in the countryside. Clara was known for her exceptional cooking skills, and I always looked forward to trying out her new creations.

On this particular day, Clara invited me into her kitchen and told me she had a special dish to share with me. She called it Spinach Orzo Pie, a delightful combination of orzo pasta, fresh spinach, and cheese baked to perfection. As she walked me through the steps of making the dish, I couldn't help but be in awe of her culinary expertise. She told me that she had learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations.

I watched intently as Clara cooked the orzo pasta until it was tender, then mixed it with sautéed spinach, garlic, and a blend of cheeses. She poured the mixture into a pie dish and topped it with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs before popping it into the oven to bake. The savory aroma that filled the kitchen was simply divine, and I knew I had to learn how to make this dish for myself.

After my visit with Clara, I couldn't stop thinking about the Spinach Orzo Pie. I was determined to recreate it in my own kitchen and share it with my family. I set to work gathering the ingredients and following the steps Clara had taught me. As the pie baked in the oven, the scent of garlic and cheese wafted through the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

When the pie was finally ready, I couldn't wait to dig in and savor the flavors that had captivated me at Clara's cottage. The first bite was pure bliss – the creamy texture of the orzo, the earthy spinach, and the gooey cheese all melded together in perfect harmony. I knew then that this recipe would become a beloved staple in my own cooking repertoire.

Over the years, I have made Spinach Orzo Pie countless times for my family and friends. Each time I prepare it, I am reminded of that fateful day when Clara shared her recipe with me. I have added my own twists and adaptations to the dish, experimenting with different cheeses, herbs, and seasonings to make it uniquely my own.

As I grow older, I find joy in passing down this recipe to the next generation. My grandchildren have grown to love Spinach Orzo Pie just as much as I do, and I am grateful to have the opportunity to share a piece of my culinary heritage with them. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and I am thankful for the friends and family who have inspired me along the way.

In the end, it is not just about the food itself, but the memories and stories that come with each recipe. The Spinach Orzo Pie will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the day I discovered a new favorite dish and the friendships that have enriched my life. Cooking is a way to connect with others, to create something beautiful out of simple ingredients, and to share a piece of oneself with the world. And for that, I am truly grateful.