Introduction

If you’re looking for a savory dish that’s both comforting and elegant, the Spinach and Feta Filo Pie is a fantastic choice. This recipe encapsulates the rich flavors of spinach, creamy feta cheese, and crispy filo pastry, making it a delightful centerpiece for any meal. Whether for a family dinner or a festive gathering, this pie offers a wonderful balance of textures and tastes, pleasing both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– Filo pastry – 300g
– Spinach – 400g (fresh or frozen, if using frozen, ensure it is defrosted and drained)
– Feta cheese – 200g
– Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped
– Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
– Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
– Nutmeg – a pinch
– Salt – to taste
– Black pepper – to taste
– Egg – 2 large (optional, for binding)
– Sesame seeds – for sprinkling (optional)

Prep Time

Preparation for the Spinach and Feta Filo Pie takes approximately 20 minutes. This includes cleaning and chopping the spinach and onion, as well as mixing together the other filling ingredients.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cooking time for the pie is about 30 minutes, resulting in a total time of around 50 minutes from start to finish. This recipe serves about 6 individuals, making it perfect for a small gathering or as leftovers for the next day. Enjoy this delicious pie warm, at room temperature, or even chilled!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filo Pastry

Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (gas mark 6). Lay out the filo pastry sheets on a clean surface. Keep a damp cloth over the sheets to prevent them from drying out while you work.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

In a frying pan, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and cook for about 5 minutes until softened and golden.

Step 3: Add Spinach

Add fresh spinach to the pan with the onions and continue cooking until wilted. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 4: Combine Filling Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach and onions with crumbled feta cheese, a few grated nutmeg, and seasoning. Mix well.

Step 5: Assemble the Pie

Grease a baking dish with olive oil. Layer three sheets of filo pastry in the dish, brushing each layer with oil. Spread half of the filling mixture in an even layer, then repeat with another three filo sheets and the remaining filling. Finally, top with more filo sheets, brushing each with olive oil.

Step 6: Bake the Pie

Using a sharp knife, score the top layers of the pastry into squares or diamonds. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Step 7: Serve

Once baked, remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes. Cut into portions and serve warm.

Notes

Storage

Leftover pie can be stored in the fridge and reheated later. It can also be frozen before baking for future meals.

Vegetarian Option

This recipe is naturally vegetarian, making it a great option for meatless meals.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side salad or yogurt for a refreshing balance to the warm pie.

Cook techniques

Layering Filo Pastry

Layering filo pastry is essential for creating a crispy and flaky crust. Make sure to brush each sheet lightly with oil or melted butter to ensure they stick together while maintaining their texture.

Sautéing Spinach

Sautéing spinach before adding it to the pie filling helps to reduce its moisture content and enhances its flavour. Cook it just until wilted for the best results.

Crushing Feta Cheese

Crushing feta cheese gives it a creamy texture that blends well with other ingredients. Use a fork to crumble it into small pieces, allowing it to combine seamlessly with the spinach.

Greasing the Baking Dish

Greasing your baking dish is crucial to prevent the pie from sticking. A little oil or butter in the dish will help achieve a perfect release once the pie is cooked.

Baking to Perfection

Baking the pie until golden brown is important for achieving a crispiness in the pastry. Keep an eye on it towards the end to avoid overcooking and ensure an appealing colour.

FAQ

Can I use frozen spinach for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture before adding it to the pie.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be reheated in the oven for best results.

Can I substitute feta cheese?

Yes, if you prefer, you can substitute feta cheese with other cheeses like goat cheese or a dairy-free alternative, but the flavour will differ.

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian since it primarily includes spinach and feta. Ensure that the filo pastry you use is also vegetarian.

What can I serve with the spinach feta filo pie?

The pie pairs well with a fresh salad or a side of yogurt for dipping, adding a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pie.

Conclusion

The Spinach and Feta Filo Pie is a delightful dish that combines the flavors of spinach and creamy feta encased in crispy filo pastry. It’s a versatile recipe that can be served as a main dish or a savory snack. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it an excellent choice for a healthy meal. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking for a satisfying meal, this pie will surely impress everyone.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Variations on Filo Pastry

Experiment with different fillings such as mushrooms and ricotta, or try a sweet variation with apples and cinnamon.

Serving Suggestions

Pair the pie with a fresh side salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a balanced meal.

Accompaniments

Serve with a dollop of homemade tzatziki or yogurt to complement the flavors of the pie.

Make it Vegan

Replace feta cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use olive oil instead of butter for a vegan-friendly version.

Meal Prep Idea

Prepare individual pies in muffin tins for personalized servings that are great for meal prep or lunchboxes.