Hearty Pumpkin and Feta Pie: A Cozy Comfort Food with Spinach and Herbs

This delicious pumpkin and feta pie is the perfect comfort food for crisp, cool nights. A flavorful blend of creamy pumpkin, tangy feta cheese, and nutrient-rich spinach wrapped in a golden, flaky pastry crust makes for a delightful meal that can be enjoyed hot from the oven or as a leftover snack. This dish is packed with vibrant herbs and spices that elevate the natural sweetness of the pumpkin, making it a nourishing and satisfying vegetarian option.

Ingredients:

For the Pastry:
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup ice water

For the Filling:
– 1 small pumpkin (peeled, seeded, and cut into cubes)
– 1 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
– 2 cups fresh spinach (chopped)
– 1 large onion (finely chopped)
– 2 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pastry:
1. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. Add the cubed butter to the flour mixture and use a pastry cutter or fork to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough begins to come together.
4. Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Filling:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Toss the pumpkin cubes with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender. Set aside to cool.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic, thyme, oregano, and chopped spinach to the skillet. Cook until the spinach is wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

3. Assemble the Pie:
1. In a large bowl, combine the roasted pumpkin, spinach mixture, and crumbled feta cheese.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Pour the egg mixture over the pumpkin and spinach mixture, stirring gently to combine.

4. Roll Out the Pastry and Fill the Pie:
1. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to fit a 9-inch pie dish, leaving some overhang.
2. Transfer the dough to the pie dish and trim any excess. Crimp the edges as desired.
3. Pour the filling into the prepared pastry crust.

5. Bake the Pie:
1. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set.
2. Allow the pie to cool slightly before slicing and serving.

This Hearty Pumpkin and Feta Pie is sure to become a family favorite, with its blend of savory and sweet flavors wrapped in a buttery crust. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a festive occasion!