Jamie Oliver 5-ingredients Spinach Pie Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

I remember the first time I tried Jamie Oliver’s 5-ingredients Spinach Pie. I was running low on time, craving something tasty but simple. The beauty of this recipe hit me immediately-it felt like a hug in food form, so easy and wholesome. No fancy ingredients, just pure comfort. It quickly became my go-to when I wanted something impressive but fuss-free.

• Simple food can be soul-soothing.
• Jamie’s genius is making magic with almost nothing.
• This pie is perfect for busy days or casual dinners.

Jamie Oliver’s 5-ingredients Spinach Pie Recipe

What makes this spinach pie special is its simplicity. Jamie cuts through the clutter of complicated recipes and lets the ingredients shine. The pie is flaky, creamy, and bursting with fresh spinach flavor. Here’s the gist:

• Only 5 main ingredients.
• Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Perfect as a snack, side dish, or light meal.

It’s one of those recipes where every bite reminds you that less can be more.

Ingredients Needed

Gathering the ingredients feels like a breeze when it’s just five key players:

• Spinach: Fresh or frozen, the star leafy green that adds nutrition and earthiness.
• Phyllo pastry: Thin sheets that create the flaky crust magic.
• Feta cheese: Adds saltiness and creaminess, balancing the spinach perfectly.
• Eggs: They bind the filling and give the pie structure.
• Olive oil: For brushing the pastry, ensuring it crisps up beautifully.

That’s it. No fuss, no weird additions. Just what you need for a brilliant pie.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s 5-ingredients Spinach Pie

I love how straightforward this recipe is-perfect for those who don’t want to stand in the kitchen all day. Here’s the step-by-step:

• Prep the spinach: If using fresh, wilt it in a pan until soft. If frozen, thaw and squeeze out excess water.
• Mix the filling: Combine spinach, crumbled feta, and beaten eggs in a bowl. Stir well.
• Layer the phyllo: Brush olive oil on each sheet and layer them in a baking dish.
• Add filling: Spread the spinach mixture evenly over the layered pastry.
• Top with phyllo: Add a few more sheets brushed with olive oil for a golden crust.
• Bake: In a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 25 minutes, until golden and crispy.

Simple, quick, and rewarding.

Ingredient Science Spotlight

Let’s geek out on what’s happening in this pie:

• Spinach: Packed with iron, vitamins A and C, and fiber. Cooking breaks down oxalates, making nutrients more bioavailable.
• Feta cheese: Made from sheep or goat milk, it’s tangy and rich in calcium and protein. The saltiness cuts through the spinach’s earthiness.
• Eggs: Proteins in eggs coagulate during baking, setting the filling and giving it a firm yet creamy texture.
• Phyllo pastry: Super thin layers of dough that, when brushed with olive oil, crisp up beautifully and add a satisfying crunch.
• Olive oil: A healthy fat that helps crisp the pastry and adds subtle fruity flavor.

Each ingredient plays a role in texture, flavor, and nutrition.

Expert Tips

From my experience and chef insights, here’s how to elevate this pie:

• Use fresh spinach if possible for brighter flavor.
• Don’t skip squeezing out excess water from spinach; soggy filling ruins the crust.
• Brush olive oil generously between phyllo layers to avoid dryness.
• Let the pie cool for 5 minutes before slicing to help it set perfectly.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg to the filling for warmth without overpowering.

Small tweaks can make a big difference.

Recipe Variations

This pie is like a canvas-easy to customize to your taste:

• Swap feta for ricotta or goat cheese for creamier filling.
• Add sautéed onions or garlic for extra flavor.
• Toss in fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or mint.
• Mix in pine nuts or walnuts for crunch.
• Try adding cooked mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for a twist.

Feel free to experiment and make it your own!

Final Words

I keep coming back to Jamie Oliver’s 5-ingredients Spinach Pie because it’s reliable, delicious, and just feels good to eat. It reminds me that cooking doesn’t have to be complicated to be impressive. Whether you’re feeding family or just yourself, this pie brings joy without the stress.

• It’s quick but tastes like you spent hours.
• Perfect for sharing or meal prep.
• A wonderful way to get more greens on the table.

FAQs

What Are The 5 Main Ingredients In Jamie Oliver’s Spinach Pie?

Spinach, filo pastry, ricotta, Parmesan, and eggs.

Can I Use Frozen Spinach For This Recipe?

Yes, frozen spinach works just fine. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well.

How Do I Make The Spinach Filling For The Pie?

Wilt the spinach, then mix it with ricotta, Parmesan, and beaten eggs. Season it to taste.

Can I Substitute Ricotta With Another Cheese?

Yes, you could use feta or cottage cheese as alternatives.

Is Filo Pastry Necessary For This Pie?

Yes, filo gives it that crisp texture. But you could try puff pastry if needed.

How Do I Make Sure The Filo Pastry Doesn’t Dry Out?

Keep the sheets covered with a damp cloth while you’re working with them.

What Should I Serve With This Spinach Pie?

It pairs well with a simple salad or some roasted veggies.

How Long Do I Need To Bake The Spinach Pie?

Bake it at 180°C (350°F) for around 30-35 minutes until golden and crispy.

Can I Make This Spinach Pie Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare it the day before and store it in the fridge. Just bake before serving.

Is This Spinach Pie Vegetarian?

Yes, it’s vegetarian, as long as you use vegetarian-friendly cheese.