Introduction

Spanakopita, a traditional Greek dish, is a delightful pastry filled with spinach and feta cheese, enveloped in crispy phyllo dough. This savory treat is perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a main course. Popular at festivals and gatherings, spanakopita is cherished for its flaky texture and flavorful filling. In this article, we will explore the ingredients and steps required to create this delicious Greek spinach pie.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Spinach – 500 grams (fresh or frozen, if using frozen, thaw and drain well)
Feta cheese – 200 grams (crumbled)
Onion – 1 medium (finely chopped)
Garlic – 2 cloves (minced)
Egg – 1 large (beaten)
Olive oil – 4 tablespoons (plus extra for brushing)
Dill – 2 tablespoons (fresh, chopped)
Parsley – 2 tablespoons (fresh, chopped)
Salt – to taste
Black pepper – to taste
Phyllo pastry – 250-300 grams (thawed if frozen)

Prep Time

30 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time – 40 minutes
Total Time – 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield – Serves 6-8

This spanakopita recipe is not only straightforward but also gives you the opportunity to enjoy a taste of Greece right from your kitchen. With its rich flavors and delightful textures, this dish is sure to impress anyone who tries it.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Filling

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until softened. Then, add garlic and continue cooking until fragrant. Stir in the spinach, season with salt, and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Combine Filling Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the spinach mixture with feta cheese, chopped herbs, and egg. Mix until well combined and set aside.

Prepare the Phyllo Dough

Thaw the phyllo dough in the refrigerator overnight. Once ready, carefully unroll it and cover with a damp cloth to prevent drying out.

Assemble the Spanakopita

In a baking dish, brush the bottom and sides with melted butter. Place one sheet of phyllo dough into the dish, allowing the edges to hang over. Brush with melted butter. Repeat this process, layering several sheets of phyllo.

Add the Filling

Spread the spinach and feta filling evenly over the layered phyllo dough. Fold the overhanging edges of the phyllo over the filling. Continue layering additional phyllo sheets, brushing each one with butter.

Bake the Spanakopita

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the spanakopita for about 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on top.

Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Cut into squares or triangles and serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Phyllo Dough Handling

Keep phyllo dough covered with a damp cloth while working to avoid drying out.

Filling Variations

Feel free to customize the filling by adding ingredients like ricotta, dill, or other herbs according to your preference.

Cooking Time

Oven temperatures can vary; be sure to keep an eye on the spanakopita towards the end of the baking time to avoid over-browning.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and reheat in the oven for best results.

Cook techniques

Phyllo Dough Handling

Carefully handle phyllo dough to prevent tearing. Keep the sheets covered with a damp cloth while you work to maintain moisture.

Layering

Layer multiple sheets of phyllo, brushing each with melted butter or oil for a crisp, flaky texture.

Sautéing Spinach

Sauté spinach until wilted and most moisture has evaporated to avoid a soggy filling.

Mixing Filling

Combine the sautéed spinach with feta cheese, herbs, and eggs thoroughly for an evenly distributed flavor.

Baking Techniques

Bake in a preheated oven until golden brown to ensure the phyllo is perfectly crisp and flaky.

FAQ

Can I make Spanakopita ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance and refrigerate or freeze it before baking.

What can I substitute for feta cheese?

You can use ricotta, cottage cheese, or a vegan alternative if you prefer.

Is Spanakopita suitable for freezing?

Yes, it freezes well either before or after baking.

Can I add other ingredients to the filling?

Absolutely! Consider adding ingredients like leeks, green onions, or fresh herbs for additional flavor.

How do I know when it’s fully baked?

The Spanakopita should be golden brown and crisp when fully baked.

Conclusion

The spanakopita is a delightful Greek dish that combines flaky pastry with a savory filling of spinach and feta. Its rich flavors and satisfying textures make it a favorite for both casual meals and special occasions. Whether served as a main dish or an appetizer, spanakopita is sure to impress your guests and family alike. Experiment with different herbs and additional ingredients to make it your own!

More recipes suggestions and combination

Tiropita

A delicious variation of spanakopita, tiropita features a cheesy filling made with feta and other cheeses, wrapped in crispy phyllo pastry.

Vegetable Baklava

A twist on the classic sweet dish, this version incorporates a mix of vegetables and herbs for a savory pastry that’s perfect for a light meal.

Greek Salad

Pair your spanakopita with a vibrant Greek salad, featuring tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta, dressed in olive oil and lemon.

Moussaka

Serve spanakopita alongside moussaka, a layered dish of eggplant, ground meat, and béchamel sauce, for a hearty and traditional Greek meal.

Chickpea Patties

Try these flavorful chickpea patties as a side or appetizer, adding a different texture and taste that complements the spanakopita beautifully.

Stuffed Grape Leaves

Dolmas, or stuffed grape leaves, filled with rice and herbs can be a fantastic side dish, enhancing the Mediterranean theme of your meal.

Lentil Soup

A warming lentil soup can provide a nutritious and hearty side that pairs well with the flaky and rich flavors of spanakopita.

Roasted Vegetables

Seasonal roasted vegetables can also make a delightful side dish, adding vibrant colors and flavors to balance the meal.