Spanakopita, or spinach pie, is a beloved Greek dish known for its flaky layers of phyllo dough filled with a savory mixture of spinach, feta cheese, onions, and herbs.
This traditional pie is a perfect blend of textures and flavors, offering a delicious balance of creamy cheese and crisp pastry.
Spanakopita can be served as a main dish, side dish, or appetizer, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
Servings and Difficulty
- Servings: Serves 6-8 people
- Difficulty: Medium
Ingredients
The necessary ingredients (possible in all kinds of variations)
- For the Filling:
- 1 pound fresh spinach, washed, drained, and chopped (or 1 pound frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh dill, chopped (or 2 tablespoons dried dill)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A pinch of nutmeg (optional)
- For the Phyllo Dough:
- 1 package phyllo dough (about 16 sheets), thawed
- 1/2 cup butter, melted (or olive oil, for brushing)
For a vegan version, substitute feta cheese with a vegan cheese alternative and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) instead of eggs.
Steps
The steps of preparation (possible in all kinds of variations)
This traditional Spanakopita recipe involves layering delicate phyllo dough with a rich spinach filling. Follow these steps to create a delicious and authentic Greek spinach pie.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and green onions and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute, or until fragrant.
- Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until wilted and most of the liquid has evaporated. If using frozen spinach, ensure it is well-drained before adding to the skillet.
- Remove the skillet from heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Stir in the fresh dill, parsley, crumbled feta cheese, beaten eggs, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Mix well to combine.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a similar-sized round baking pan with butter or olive oil.
- Assemble the Spanakopita:
- Unroll the phyllo dough and cover it with a damp kitchen towel to prevent it from drying out.
- Lay a sheet of phyllo dough in the prepared baking dish, allowing the edges to hang over the sides. Brush the sheet with melted butter or olive oil. Repeat this process with about 8 sheets of phyllo, brushing each sheet with butter or oil before adding the next.
- Spread the spinach and feta filling evenly over the layered phyllo sheets.
- Top with Phyllo Layers:
- Continue layering the remaining phyllo sheets over the filling, brushing each sheet with melted butter or olive oil as you go. Use about 8 more sheets for the top layer.
- Tuck the overhanging edges of the phyllo into the dish to seal the filling. Brush the top layer with any remaining butter or oil.
- Score the Pie:
- Using a sharp knife, score the top layer of the phyllo into square or diamond-shaped pieces. This will make it easier to cut after baking and allows steam to escape.
- Bake the Spanakopita:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the phyllo is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve:
- Allow the spanakopita to cool for about 10 minutes before cutting into pieces. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Nutritional Benefits
This traditional Spanakopita is not just delicious but also provides several nutritional benefits!
- Vitamins and Minerals: Spinach is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium, which are essential for overall health.
- Protein: Feta cheese provides protein, which is important for muscle repair and growth.
- Fiber: Spinach and herbs add dietary fiber, which supports digestive health.
- Healthy Fats: Olive oil and butter provide healthy fats, which are necessary for nutrient absorption and energy.
Possible Additions or Upgrades
- Pine Nuts: Add toasted pine nuts to the filling for extra flavor and texture.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Mix in chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy, slightly sweet addition.
- Ricotta Cheese: Combine ricotta with feta for a creamier filling.
- Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms can be added to the spinach filling for an earthy flavor.
- Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the filling for a bright, citrusy flavor.
Q&A
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh spinach works great. Just be sure to cook it down and drain any excess moisture to prevent a soggy filling.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the spanakopita up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Bake it when ready to serve.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I freeze spanakopita?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked spanakopita. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
What can I serve with spanakopita?
Spanakopita pairs well with a Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or a bowl of soup.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free phyllo dough to make this dish gluten-free.
How do I prevent the phyllo dough from drying out?
Cover the phyllo dough with a damp kitchen towel while working to keep it from drying out and becoming brittle.
Can I use other greens for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other greens like kale, chard, or a mix of greens for a different flavor.
How can I make this dish more flavorful?
Add more herbs, spices, or ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes or olives to enhance the flavor.
Can I use store-bought phyllo dough?
Yes, store-bought phyllo dough works perfectly for this recipe and is a convenient option.
Enjoy making this delicious and traditional Spanakopita! Don’t forget to share the recipe with friends and family on social media.
