From Brunch to Dinner: Savory Pie Potluck Recipes for Every Meal!
Savory pies are a versatile and delicious option for any mealtime. Whether you’re looking for a brunch favorite, a lunchtime delight, an afternoon tea treat, an appetizer with a twist, a comforting dinner, a vegetarian option, an international flavor, a creative combo, or even a dessert with a savory twist, there is a savory pie for every occasion and taste preference.
Brunch Favorites: Quiches and Frittatas
Quiches and frittatas have long been popular choices for brunch. These egg-based pies are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile in terms of flavor combinations. A classic quiche Lorraine with bacon and cheese is always a crowd-pleaser, but you can also experiment with different ingredients such as spinach and feta or smoked salmon and dill. Frittatas, on the other hand, are more like an open-faced omelet and can be made with a variety of vegetables and cheeses. Try a Mediterranean-inspired frittata with roasted red peppers, olives, and feta cheese or a Mexican-inspired frittata with black beans, corn, and cheddar cheese.
Lunchtime Delights: Hand Pies and Empanadas
When it comes to lunchtime meals, hand pies and empanadas are the perfect choice. These portable pies are easy to eat on the go and can be filled with a wide range of ingredients. Traditional fillings for hand pies include chicken pot pie or beef and vegetable pie, but you can also get creative with flavors like buffalo chicken or BBQ pulled pork. Empanadas are popular in Latin American cuisine and can be filled with anything from ground beef and cheese to spinach and ricotta. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and seasonings to create unique flavor combinations.
Afternoon Tea Treats: Miniature Pies and Tartlets
For a more elegant and sophisticated option, miniature pies and tartlets are perfect for afternoon tea. These bite-sized treats can be both sweet and savory, making them a versatile addition to any tea party. For a savory option, try mini quiches with different fillings such as caramelized onion and goat cheese or sun-dried tomato and basil. For a sweet option, mini fruit pies or chocolate tartlets are always a hit. You can also experiment with unique flavor combinations like lemon curd and lavender or salted caramel and dark chocolate.
Appetizers with a Twist: Savory Pie Bites and Pinwheels
Savory pie bites and pinwheels are the perfect appetizers for any occasion. These bite-sized treats are easy to make and can be customized with a variety of fillings. Classic options include mini chicken pot pies or sausage rolls, but you can also get creative with flavors like spinach and feta or buffalo chicken. Pinwheels are made by rolling out puff pastry or pie dough, spreading a filling on top, and then rolling it up into a log shape. You can create pinwheels with flavors like ham and cheese, pesto and sun-dried tomato, or even pizza-inspired fillings.
Comfort Foods: Classic Pot Pies and Shepherd’s Pies
When it comes to comfort food, classic pot pies and shepherd’s pies are hard to beat. These hearty dishes are perfect for cold winter nights or when you’re in need of some serious comfort. Traditional pot pies are made with a flaky pastry crust and filled with a creamy mixture of chicken or beef, vegetables, and gravy. Shepherd’s pie, on the other hand, is made with a layer of ground meat (usually lamb) topped with mashed potatoes. You can experiment with different fillings such as turkey pot pie or vegetarian shepherd’s pie made with lentils and vegetables.
Vegetarian Options: Spinach and Mushroom Pies, Lentil Pies
It’s important to offer vegetarian options when it comes to savory pies. Spinach and mushroom pies are a classic choice and can be made with a creamy béchamel sauce or a cheesy filling. Lentil pies are also a great option for vegetarians and can be flavored with spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric. You can also experiment with different vegetables such as sweet potatoes or butternut squash to add more depth of flavor.
International Flavors: Greek Spanakopita, Indian Samosas
Savory pies have a global influence, with different cultures putting their own spin on these delicious treats. Greek spanakopita is a popular choice, made with layers of phyllo pastry filled with spinach and feta cheese. Indian samosas are another favorite, made with a crispy pastry shell filled with spiced potatoes and peas. You can experiment with different international flavors by incorporating ingredients like curry powder, coconut milk, or even kimchi into your savory pies.
Creative Combos: Mac and Cheese Pie, Cheeseburger Pie
Savory pies also offer the opportunity to get creative and innovative with flavor combinations. Mac and cheese pie is a perfect example of this, combining two comfort food favorites into one delicious dish. You can use your favorite mac and cheese recipe as the filling and top it with a layer of buttery breadcrumbs for added crunch. Cheeseburger pie is another creative option, combining all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a pie form. You can use ground beef or even ground turkey as the filling and top it with melted cheese and pickles for an extra burst of flavor.
Dessert Pies with a Savory Twist: Tomato and Basil Pie, Chocolate and Bacon Pie
In recent years, there has been a trend of incorporating savory flavors into dessert pies. Tomato and basil pie is a perfect example of this, combining the sweetness of ripe tomatoes with the savory flavors of fresh basil and Parmesan cheese. The result is a unique and delicious dessert that is both sweet and savory. Another creative option is chocolate and bacon pie, which combines the richness of dark chocolate with the smoky and salty flavors of crispy bacon. This unexpected flavor combination is sure to surprise and delight your taste buds.
The Endless Possibilities of Savory Pies
In conclusion, savory pies offer endless possibilities when it comes to mealtime options and flavor combinations. Whether you’re looking for a brunch favorite, a lunchtime delight, an afternoon tea treat, an appetizer with a twist, a comforting dinner, a vegetarian option, an international flavor, a creative combo, or even a dessert with a savory twist, there is a savory pie for every occasion and taste preference. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different fillings, spices, and seasonings to create your own unique flavor combinations. The only limit is your imagination! So go ahead and start exploring the world of savory pies today.