Spanakopita is a delicious savory Greek pie made of crispy layers of phyllo dough and a filling of spinach and feta cheese. This easy spanakopita recipe is perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks. With step-by-step instructions and simple ingredients, you’ll be able to create a perfect Greek spinach pie at home. Whether you’re looking for a side dish or a main course, this authentic spanakopita recipe will satisfy your cravings.
What is Spanakopita?
Spanakopita is a popular Greek savory pie made with flaky phyllo dough and a delicious filling of spinach and feta cheese. Phyllo dough, a thin pastry dough, can be found in the freezer section of most grocery stores. This traditional Greek dish is a perfect combination of crispy pastry and creamy, savory filling.
Phyllo Dough
Phyllo dough is a key ingredient in spanakopita. It is a thin, unleavened pastry dough that is often used in Greek and Middle Eastern cuisines. The dough is made by repeatedly rolling and folding a mixture of water, flour, and oil or butter. This process creates layers of thin dough that become crispy when baked.
The Filling
The filling of spanakopita usually consists of spinach, feta cheese, and a combination of fresh herbs and aromatics. Spinach provides a vibrant green color and earthy flavor, while the feta cheese adds a rich and tangy taste. The combination of these ingredients creates a creamy and savory filling that complements the crispy phyllo dough. Other variations of spanakopita may include additional vegetables, such as onions or leeks.
Shapes and Variations
Spanakopita can be made in various shapes, depending on personal preference or regional traditions. Some common shapes include:
- Large casserole dish: The filling is spread evenly in a baking dish, and layers of phyllo dough are placed on top.
- Triangle-shaped hand pies: The filling is spooned onto a sheet of phyllo dough, which is then folded into a triangle and baked until golden and crispy.
- Rolls: The filling is spread onto a long strip of phyllo dough, which is then rolled into a log shape and baked.
Authentic Spanakopita Recipe
To make an authentic spanakopita, you’ll need the following ingredients:
| Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 package of phyllo dough sheets | 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). |
| 1 kg of fresh spinach, washed and chopped | 2. In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until softened. |
| 200 grams of feta cheese, crumbled | 3. Add the spinach to the pan and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool. |
| 1 onion, finely chopped | 4. In a bowl, combine the spinach, feta cheese, dill, salt, and pepper. |
| 1 tablespoon of fresh dill, chopped | 5. Lay a sheet of phyllo dough on a flat surface and brush with olive oil. Place another sheet on top and repeat the process until you have a stack of 5-7 phyllo sheets. |
| 2 tablespoons of olive oil | 6. Spoon the spinach and feta filling onto one end of the phyllo stack. Roll up the phyllo sheets, enclosing the filling. |
| Salt and pepper, to taste | 7. Place the spanakopita roll onto a baking sheet and brush with olive oil. |
| 8. Repeat the process with the remaining phyllo sheets and filling. | |
| 9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the spanakopita is golden brown and crisp. |
Enjoy the delightful combination of crispy phyllo dough and creamy spinach and feta filling with this authentic spanakopita recipe. Serve it as an appetizer, side dish, or even as a main course. This Greek spinach pie is a versatile and delicious dish that is sure to impress your family and friends.
Tips for Making Spanakopita
Making an easy spanakopita recipe is simpler than you might think. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, these tips will help you create a delicious and authentic Greek spinach pie. From using puff pastry for a convenient twist to experimenting with different triangle shapes, here are some helpful pointers to ensure success:
- Choose the right phyllo dough: Look for frozen phyllo dough in the supermarket. Thaw it according to the package instructions and handle it gently to prevent tearing.
- Prepare the spinach: Make sure to thoroughly wash and dry the spinach before using it in the filling. Remove any tough stems and chop the leaves into manageable pieces.
- Add extra flavor: Enhance the taste of your spanakopita by incorporating aromatic herbs such as dill or mint. You can also experiment with different types of cheese like ricotta or goat cheese for a unique twist.
- Try different shapes: While the traditional triangle shape is classic, don’t be afraid to get creative. You can also make spanakopita in rolls or mini hand pies for a fun and portable option.
- Brush with butter: To achieve that crispy, golden crust, generously brush each layer of phyllo dough with melted butter before baking.
- Let it cool before cutting: Allow your spanakopita to cool slightly after removing it from the oven. This will make it easier to cut into neat, appetizing slices.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to create a perfect spanakopita that is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Get ready to impress your family and friends with your homemade Greek spinach pie!
“Spanakopita is a dish I cannot resist. The combination of crispy pastry and a creamy, savory filling is simply irresistible!” – Jamie Oliver
How to Make Spanakopita?
Are you ready to learn how to make a delicious spanakopita? Follow these simple steps to create a crispy and flavorful Greek spinach pie that will delight your taste buds.
- Prepare the phyllo dough: Start by thawing the frozen phyllo dough according to the package instructions. Once thawed, carefully unroll the dough and cover it with a damp kitchen towel to prevent it from drying out.
- Create the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine fresh spinach, chopped onions, crumbled feta cheese, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Layer the phyllo sheets: Place a sheet of phyllo dough on a clean surface and brush it with melted butter or olive oil. Repeat this process, layering six sheets of phyllo in total.
- Add the filling: Spread the spinach and feta cheese filling evenly on top of the phyllo layers, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Roll and fold: Carefully roll the phyllo and filling into a tight cylinder shape. Then, fold the ends of the cylinder towards the center to create a spiral shape.
- Bake to perfection: Place the spanakopita on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the top with melted butter or olive oil. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Congratulations! You have successfully made a delicious spanakopita. Serve it warm as an appetizer, a side dish, or even as a main course. The crispy phyllo dough combined with the flavorful filling of spinach and feta cheese creates a harmonious and satisfying dish that will transport you to the picturesque landscapes of Greece.
So, why wait? Try making this delightful spanakopita recipe today and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills!
Nutrition Details and Serving Suggestions
Spanakopita is not only a delicious dish but also a nutritious one. This homemade spanakopita recipe, made with fresh spinach and authentic ingredients, offers a balance of flavors and health benefits.
The key ingredient in this Greek spinach pie is spinach, which is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron, calcium, and fiber. Spinach is known for its antioxidant properties and is a great addition to a well-rounded diet.
Another important component of this Greek spanakopita recipe is feta cheese. Feta cheese adds a creamy and tangy flavor to the dish while also providing protein and calcium.
Each serving of this authentic spanakopita recipe contains approximately:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Total Fat | 15g |
| Saturated Fat | 8g |
| Cholesterol | 45mg |
| Sodium | 400mg |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 2g |
| Protein | 8g |
Please note that these nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredient brands and serving sizes. It’s always advisable to refer to the nutrition labels on the products you use.
As for serving suggestions, this homemade spanakopita is perfect as an appetizer, a side dish, or even a main course. It pairs well with a fresh Greek salad and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
For a complete Greek-inspired meal, serve spanakopita alongside some tzatziki sauce and lemon wedges. The creamy and tangy tzatziki complements the flaky pastry and savory filling of the spanakopita perfectly.
So, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply satisfying your craving for authentic Greek cuisine, this homemade spanakopita recipe is a nutritious and satisfying choice.
Get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of spinach, feta cheese, and flaky pastry with this authentic spanakopita recipe. Your taste buds and your health will thank you for it!
Conclusion
Making spanakopita at home is a delightful culinary adventure that brings the authentic Greek flavors to your own kitchen. With this easy spanakopita recipe, you can create a delectable Greek spinach pie that will impress your loved ones. By following the expert tips and step-by-step instructions provided in this article, you’ll be able to achieve a perfect balance of crispy phyllo dough and a tantalizing filling of spinach and feta cheese.
Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, this traditional spanakopita recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Its combination of crispy layers of phyllo dough and the rich, savory goodness of the spinach and feta filling make it an absolute favorite among Greek cuisine enthusiasts.
So why not delve into the wonderful world of spanakopita? Try out this classic Greek dish for yourself and indulge in the delightful flavors it has to offer. With the best spanakopita recipe at your fingertips, you’re just moments away from savoring the irresistible taste of homemade spanakopita. Whether it’s a special occasion or a simple weeknight meal, this authentic spanakopita recipe is a guaranteed winner.
