The first time I tried Jamie Oliver’s 5-ingredients Spinach Pie, it was a rainy Saturday afternoon. I had been craving something warm and savory but didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. So, I decided to give Jamie’s simple recipe a shot. The results? Pure comfort food with minimal effort.
This recipe is exactly what it promises: five ingredients and a whole lot of flavor. It’s one of those dishes you can whip up on a whim, without worrying about a long shopping list or complicated steps. Over the years, I’ve made it countless times, tweaking it just a bit here and there, but the essence remains the same-quick, delicious, and satisfying.
Jamie Oliver’s 5-ingredients Spinach Pie Recipe
Jamie Oliver has a unique way of making simple ingredients shine, and this spinach pie is no exception. The beauty of this recipe is that it doesn’t rely on heavy spices or intricate techniques. It’s all about letting the natural flavors of spinach and cheese come through, while the pastry holds it all together.
The 5 ingredients Jamie uses are basic but come together in a magical way. Here’s a quick overview of the dish before we dive into the details:
- Spinach: The star of the show, offering richness and nutrients.
- Cheese: Adds creaminess and depth, making the pie comforting and filling.
- Pastry: Flaky and golden, it contrasts perfectly with the spinach filling.
- Eggs: They help bind everything together and give it a rich texture.
- Nutmeg: A pinch of this elevates the flavor, adding a hint of warmth and earthiness.
If you’re looking for something quick to throw together, this pie is a great option. No need to stress about gathering ingredients from the back of the pantry or specialty stores. Just head to your local supermarket and you’re good to go.
Ingredients Needed
For Jamie Oliver’s 5-ingredients Spinach Pie, you don’t need anything fancy. Here’s the list of essentials:
- Spinach (fresh or frozen) – About 300g. You’ll want a lot of spinach to give the pie that hearty, green goodness. If you use frozen, make sure it’s well-drained to avoid sogginess.
- Ricotta cheese (250g) – This creamy cheese brings texture and moisture to the pie filling.
- Ready-made puff pastry – You’ll need a sheet or two, depending on the size of your pie dish. It’s the shortcut to golden, flaky crust without the hassle of making dough from scratch.
- Eggs (2 large) – These bind everything together while giving the pie a lovely rich consistency.
- Nutmeg (a pinch) – Just a little sprinkle to give it a warm, aromatic finish.
The simplicity of these ingredients is key to the magic of this recipe. You can find them all in your local grocery store, and each one serves a specific purpose to make the dish shine.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s 5-ingredients Spinach Pie
Making this pie is as easy as it gets, especially when you’re short on time or energy. Here’s a step-by-step guide based on how I first made it:
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Prepare The Spinach
- If you’re using fresh spinach, wilt it in a large pan with a little olive oil until it shrinks down. This will take about 5 minutes. If you’re using frozen spinach, thaw it out and squeeze out the excess moisture.
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Mix The Filling
- In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, eggs, and nutmeg. Stir until smooth.
- Add the spinach (make sure it’s cooled down before you add it in) and mix it all together. The consistency should be creamy and rich. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Prepare The Pastry
- Roll out your puff pastry to fit your pie dish. If you’re using a round dish, you might need to cut the pastry to fit. I always make sure there’s a little overlap so I can fold it over the edges for that rustic look.
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Assemble The Pie
- Transfer the spinach mixture into the prepared pastry, spreading it out evenly.
- Fold over the edges of the pastry to cover the filling. It doesn’t need to be perfect; a messy fold adds character.
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Bake The Pie
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the pie in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crispy.
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Serve And Enjoy
- Once it’s out of the oven, let the pie cool for a few minutes before slicing. The flaky pastry, rich filling, and subtle nutmeg flavor are absolutely irresistible.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
You might be wondering, “Why does this simple combination of ingredients work so well”? Let’s break it down:
- Spinach: This leafy green is packed with iron, vitamins, and antioxidants. Its earthy flavor is mild, making it an ideal base for a rich, cheesy filling.
- Ricotta cheese: Ricotta is light and airy compared to other cheeses. It adds a creamy texture without overpowering the other ingredients. Plus, its slightly sweet flavor complements the spinach perfectly.
- Pastry: Puff pastry is made by layering dough and butter. When baked, these layers expand and create a light, flaky texture. It’s the perfect contrast to the creamy filling inside.
- Eggs: Eggs are the binder in this recipe. They hold the spinach and cheese together, giving the pie structure and that lovely custard-like texture.
- Nutmeg: Nutmeg’s warming and aromatic flavor balances the richness of the cheese and adds a cozy, comforting note to the dish.
Each ingredient has its own role, but together they create something greater than the sum of their parts.
Expert Tips
Over time, I’ve learned a few tricks to elevate this pie, even with its simplicity:
- Don’t skimp on the seasoning: A little salt and pepper go a long way. You can also add a pinch of chili flakes for a bit of heat if you like.
- Preheat your baking tray: This helps the pastry get an even, crispy base. Just place your pie dish on a hot tray when you put it in the oven.
- Use fresh spinach if possible: It may take a bit more time to cook down, but the flavor is worth it.
- Let it rest before serving: Once the pie is out of the oven, give it 10 minutes to set. This helps the filling firm up, making it easier to slice without everything spilling out.
Recipe Variations
While Jamie’s recipe is a classic, there are plenty of ways to make it your own. Here are a few ideas:
- Swap the ricotta for feta: If you like a tangier, more robust flavor, feta is a great alternative to ricotta.
- Add pine nuts: Toasted pine nuts can add a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor that complements the spinach.
- Use other greens: You can mix in other greens like chard or kale for variety.
- Add garlic or onions: A bit of sautéed garlic or caramelized onions would add a savory depth to the filling.
Final Words
This spinach pie is more than just a recipe. It’s a reminder that great food doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a few ingredients, you can make something comforting, nourishing, and absolutely delicious. I find myself going back to it when I need a quick fix for lunch, dinner, or even a snack.
FAQs
What Are The Five Ingredients For Jamie Oliver’s Spinach Pie?
The five main ingredients are spinach, eggs, feta cheese, filo pastry, and olive oil.
Can I Make The Spinach Pie Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the pie in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
What Can I Substitute For Feta In This Spinach Pie Recipe?
You can use ricotta or any other soft cheese as a substitute for feta.