Spanakopita (Greek Spinach Pie)

Spanakopita (Greek Spinach Pie) is a delightful dish that brings together flaky phyllo dough and a savory spinach and feta filling. This Greek classic is perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings. Its crispy exterior contrasts beautifully with the creamy, herbed filling, making it a standout dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh herbs and creamy feta makes every bite bursting with flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve as an appetizer, main course, or side dish to suit any meal.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a great recipe for both novice and experienced cooks.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare ahead of time and bake just before serving for a stress-free meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with spinach and herbs, this pie is not just tasty but also nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick baking pan
• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Kitchen brush
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick baking pan: Ensures easy removal of the Spanakopita without sticking or tearing.
• Large skillet: Provides ample space to sauté the greens evenly for the filling.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the filling ingredients thoroughly.
• Kitchen brush: Perfect for applying olive oil between layers of phyllo, ensuring crispness.

Ingredients

Spanakopita is made using fresh ingredients that come together beautifully in this delicious Greek pie.

For the Dough

• 11 ounces phyllo dough (16 sheets – fresh is easiest, frozen must be thawed overnight in the fridge in its sealed package before use.)

For the Filling

• 2 pounds fresh spinach (substitute frozen)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin)
• 3 green onions
• 1 leek
• ½ cup parsley (fresh)
• ¼ cup dill (fresh)
• ¼ cup mint (fresh)
• 1 pound feta cheese
• 2 large eggs
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ⅛ teaspoon black pepper

How to Make Spanakopita (Greek Spinach Pie)

Step 1: Cook Greens

In a large skillet, sauté 1 finely chopped leek and 3 chopped green onions in 2 tablespoons of olive oil for about 5 minutes until soft. Add 2 pounds of fresh spinach along with ½ teaspoon salt and ⅛ teaspoon black pepper. Cook for a few minutes until most of the moisture has evaporated.

Step 2: Make Filling

Transfer the cooked greens to a mixing bowl and let them cool for about 10 minutes. Once cooled, add 1 pound of crumbled feta cheese, 2 beaten large eggs, ½ cup of chopped parsley, ¼ cup of chopped dill, and ¼ cup of chopped mint. Mix well until combined.

Step 3: Fill Pie

Grease your baking pan with olive oil. Lay down eight sheets of phyllo dough in the pan, allowing some dough to hang over the edges. Drizzle olive oil between each sheet to enhance crispness. Spread the spinach filling evenly over the layered phyllo.

Step 4: Top and Tuck In

Layer another eight sheets of phyllo on top in the same manner as before, drizzling olive oil between layers. Fold over any overhanging dough to create a rim around the pie. Brush the top with more olive oil and cut into squares without cutting all the way through.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

Preheat your oven to 340°F (170°C). Bake for about one hour or until golden brown and crisp. Let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing into squares. Enjoy your homemade Spanakopita!

How to Serve Spanakopita (Greek Spinach Pie)

Serving Spanakopita is as delightful as making it. This flaky pastry can be enjoyed in various ways, whether as an appetizer, main course, or even a snack. Here are some creative serving suggestions:

As an Appetizer

• Serve warm or at room temperature, cut into small squares for easy serving.
• Pair with a refreshing yogurt dip for added creaminess.

With a Salad

• Complement with a Greek salad featuring cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese.
• The fresh vegetables balance the rich flavors of the pie.

Alongside Soup

• Enjoy with a light soup, such as tomato or lemon chicken soup.
• The warmth of the soup pairs perfectly with the flaky pastry.

On a Buffet Table

• Include Spanakopita in a buffet spread for gatherings.
• Its versatility makes it a hit among guests of all ages.

As Part of a Meze Platter

• Add it to a selection of small bites like hummus, olives, and stuffed grape leaves.
• This way, everyone can sample different flavors.

How to Perfect Spanakopita (Greek Spinach Pie)

Perfecting Spanakopita requires attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to ensure your pie turns out delicious every time:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and herbs enhance flavor significantly. Opt for high-quality feta cheese for the best taste.
• Thaw Phyllo Properly: If using frozen phyllo dough, let it thaw overnight in the fridge. This prevents it from cracking during assembly.
• Layer Wisely: Apply olive oil between each layer of phyllo to achieve maximum crispiness and prevent dryness.
• Season Well: Don’t skip seasoning your filling with salt and pepper. It brings out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
• Cut Before Baking: Score the top layers into squares before baking. This helps steam escape and allows for even cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Spanakopita (Greek Spinach Pie)

Spanakopita pairs well with several side dishes that complement its flavors. Here’s a curated list of sides to consider when serving this delightful dish:

1. Greek Salad: A mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and olives dressed with olive oil enhances freshness.
2. Tzatziki Sauce: A cool yogurt dip made with cucumber and garlic adds a refreshing contrast to the warm pie.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized bring both color and nutrition to your meal.
4. Lentil Soup: Hearty lentil soup offers protein-rich goodness alongside the flaky pastry.
5. Grilled Eggplant: Smoky grilled eggplant slices provide rich flavor that complements Spanakopita beautifully.
6. Chickpea Salad: A zesty salad mixed with chickpeas, parsley, and lemon juice adds crunch and zest.
7. Stuffed Grape Leaves: These savory bites introduce another layer of texture and taste to your spread.
8. Couscous Salad: Lightly seasoned couscous mixed with herbs and vegetables makes for an excellent side dish.

Enjoy your Spanakopita journey!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Spanakopita can be straightforward, but small mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using dry phyllo dough: Ensure your phyllo dough is fresh and properly thawed if frozen. Dry dough can lead to a tough texture.
• Overcooking the filling: Cook the spinach and other vegetables just until wilted. Overcooking can cause excess moisture, making the pie soggy.
• Not layering correctly: Take care to layer the phyllo sheets with oil in between each one. This helps achieve that perfect flaky crust.
• Skipping the resting time: Letting the filling cool before mixing in eggs prevents them from cooking prematurely and ensures a creamy texture.
• Neglecting to cut before baking: Cutting slits in the top layers before baking allows steam to escape, helping to maintain a crisp texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Spanakopita in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Spanakopita (Greek Spinach Pie)

• Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Spanakopita (Greek Spinach Pie)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but expect a softer crust.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, covering it briefly until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Spanakopita that you might find helpful.

What is Spanakopita (Greek Spinach Pie)?

Spanakopita is a traditional Greek pie made primarily of spinach and feta cheese encased in layers of flaky phyllo pastry.

Can I use frozen spinach for Spanakopita?

Yes, frozen spinach is a great substitute! Just ensure it is thoroughly thawed and drained before adding it to your filling.

How do I make Spanakopita ahead of time?

You can prepare the entire pie and freeze it before baking. Bake it straight from the freezer, adding extra time as needed.

What can I serve with Spanakopita?

Spanakopita pairs well with Greek salad, tzatziki sauce, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Spanakopita is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different herbs or even using other cheeses if desired. This dish makes for an excellent appetizer or main course that everyone will enjoy. Don’t hesitate to give this delightful recipe a try!