Spanakopita, a traditional Greek spinach pie, is a true crowd-pleaser, known for its delicate, flaky layers of buttery phyllo dough and its creamy, savory filling of spinach and cheese. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer, side dish, or main course, spanakopita offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that make it hard to resist. With its rich, cheesy filling and crispy golden layers, this dish is a perfect way to introduce authentic Greek flavors to your home kitchen. If you’re craving something both light and satisfying, spanakopita is your go-to recipe! Let’s get started with this easy-to-follow guide. 🌿🧀
Ingredients 📝
For the Filling:
- 1 pound (450g) fresh spinach, washed and chopped
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
For the Pastry:
- 1 package phyllo dough (thawed if frozen)
- ½ cup melted butter or olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Spanakopita 👩🍳👨🍳
1. Prepare the Filling:
Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant (about 3-5 minutes).
Cook the Spinach:
- Add the chopped spinach to the skillet. Stir occasionally, cooking until the spinach wilts and any excess liquid evaporates (about 4-5 minutes). Remove from heat and allow the spinach mixture to cool slightly.
Mix the Cheese and Spinach:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine crumbled feta, ricotta, and grated Parmesan cheese with the beaten eggs.
- Add the cooled spinach mixture to the bowl and stir well to combine. If you like, sprinkle in a bit of nutmeg for an extra hint of warmth.
- Season the filling with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Assemble the Spanakopita:
Prepare the Phyllo Dough:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lay out a sheet of phyllo dough on a clean surface. Brush it lightly with melted butter or olive oil.
- Place another phyllo sheet on top of the first and brush with butter again. Repeat this process for about 4-5 layers.
Add the Filling:
- Take a generous scoop of the spinach and cheese filling and place it along one edge of the layered phyllo dough.
- Fold the sides of the phyllo over the filling and roll it up, either into a burrito-like shape or into triangles (both methods are commonly used).
Prepare for Baking:
- Place each rolled spanakopita on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, seam-side down.
- Repeat the process with the remaining filling and phyllo sheets until you’ve used up all the mixture.
3. Bake the Spanakopita:
Brush and Bake:
- Once all the spanakopita rolls are assembled, brush the tops with more melted butter or olive oil for that perfect golden finish.
- Bake the spanakopita in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the tops turn a crispy golden brown.
Cool and Serve:
- Let the spanakopita cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve them warm as an appetizer, a delightful side, or even as a satisfying main course. 😋
Conclusion: A Taste of Greece at Your Table 🍽️
Spanakopita is not just a dish—it’s a flavorful journey into Greek cuisine, offering a satisfying balance of flaky pastry and savory spinach and cheese. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or enjoying a casual meal at home, this Greek pie is a guaranteed hit that will leave everyone craving more. 🧡
Pair it with a fresh, crisp Greek salad or a tangy tzatziki sauce for an unforgettable meal. Simple to make and rich in flavor, spanakopita is a timeless dish that brings the comfort of Greek tradition right to your kitchen. Enjoy! 🌟
