Spanakopita (Greek Spinach Pie)

Spanakopita (Greek Spinach Pie) is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Greece right to your table. With its flaky phyllo pastry enveloping a rich filling of spinach and cheese, spanakopita is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, looking for a delicious appetizer, or simply wanting a comforting main course, this recipe is sure to impress. The combination of fresh herbs and creamy feta creates a unique flavor profile that stands out while being surprisingly easy to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Preparing spanakopita is straightforward, making it suitable for both novice and experienced cooks alike.
• Flavorful Filling: The blend of spinach, herbs, and feta cheese creates a mouthwatering filling that’s packed with flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as an appetizer, main dish, or side—it fits seamlessly into any meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Spanakopita can be made ahead of time and frozen, allowing you to enjoy it whenever you please.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress guests at gatherings with its beautiful presentation and delicious taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making spanakopita, it’s important to have the right tools on hand. These will help ensure your cooking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Baking pan
• Mixing bowl
• Pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A large skillet allows for even cooking of the greens, ensuring they are perfectly sautéed before mixing with other ingredients.
• Baking pan: A sturdy baking pan ensures that the spanakopita cooks evenly and achieves that golden-brown color.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious mixing bowl is essential for combining all the filling ingredients comfortably.
• Pastry brush: This tool helps apply oil between the layers of phyllo dough for the perfect flaky texture.

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Ingredients

Spanakopita is a Greek spinach and feta pie. It’s crispy and flaky on the outside, cheesy and tender on the inside.

Ingredients:
– 11 ounces phyllo dough (16 sheets – fresh is easiest; frozen must be thawed overnight in the fridge in its sealed package before use.)
– 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 leek and 3 green onions (finely chopped) in 2 tablespoons olive oil for approximately 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 water has evaporated from the skillet.

Step 2: Make Filling

Transfer the sautéed greens to a bowl and allow them to cool for about 10 minutes. Then add in crumbled feta cheese (1 pound), beaten eggs (2 large), finely chopped parsley (½ cup), dill (¼ cup), and mint (¼ cup). Mix well until fully combined.

Step 3: Fill Pie

Grease your baking pan with oil and layer it with 8 sheets of phyllo dough. Ensure some dough hangs over the edges. Drizzle olive oil between each sheet to enhance flakiness. Let the dough crinkle slightly to allow hot air circulation. Spread the spinach filling evenly across this base.

Step 4: Top and Tuck In

Layer another set of 8 sheets over the filling using similar drizzling techniques with olive oil. Tuck in any overhanging dough around the edges to create a rim. Brush additional oil over the top layer, including the rim, then cut into squares without cutting all the way through.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

Bake in a preheated oven at 340°F (170°C) for about one hour or until golden brown and crisp. Allow it to cool for about ten minutes before cutting squares. Enjoy your homemade spanakopita!

How to Serve Spanakopita (Greek Spinach Pie)

Spanakopita is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways, enhancing its flavor and appeal. Whether as an appetizer or part of a main meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

As an Appetizer

• Serve warm or at room temperature for a delightful starter that pairs well with drinks.

With a Fresh Salad

• Accompany Spanakopita with a mixed greens salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the greens complements the richness of the pie.

Topped with Yogurt Sauce

• Drizzle or dollop some yogurt sauce on top for added creaminess and tang. A cucumber-yogurt dip works particularly well.

Alongside Roasted Vegetables

• Pair with seasonal roasted vegetables for a colorful and nutritious side. Roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots are excellent choices.

With Hummus or Baba Ganoush

• Serve with hummus or baba ganoush for a Mediterranean-inspired feast. These dips add extra flavor and texture.

How to Perfect Spanakopita (Greek Spinach Pie)

To make sure your Spanakopita turns out perfectly crispy and delicious, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Fresh Phyllo Dough: Fresh phyllo dough yields the best texture. If using frozen, ensure it’s fully thawed before working with it.
• Layer Generously: Apply olive oil between each layer of phyllo. This creates those signature flaky layers that make Spanakopita irresistible.
• Don’t Overfill: While it may be tempting to add more filling, overfilling might cause the dough to tear. Stick to the recommended quantity for optimal results.
• Let It Rest: Allow your Spanakopita to rest for about 10 minutes after baking. This helps the filling set and makes slicing easier.

Best Side Dishes for Spanakopita (Greek Spinach Pie)

Pairing side dishes with Spanakopita can enhance your meal’s overall flavor profile. Here are some excellent options:

1. Greek Salad: A classic combination of tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta tossed in olive oil showcases fresh Mediterranean flavors.
2. Tzatziki Sauce: This cool cucumber-yogurt sauce adds a refreshing contrast to the warm pie, making each bite more delightful.
3. Roasted Potatoes: Herb-roasted potatoes seasoned with lemon and garlic complement the savory pie beautifully.
4. Grilled Asparagus: Tender grilled asparagus drizzled with olive oil provides a sophisticated touch to your meal while adding nutrition.
5. Olive Tapenade: A spread made from olives that adds a salty depth of flavor when served alongside the flaky pie.
6. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs and spices can act as a hearty side dish that balances the lighter flavors of Spanakopita.
7. Chickpea Salad: A simple salad made with chickpeas, parsley, and lemon juice offers protein and brightness next to your pie.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Spanakopita (Greek Spinach Pie) can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Using dry phyllo dough: Ensure your phyllo dough is fresh and properly thawed if using frozen. Dry dough can lead to a tough texture.
• Overcooking the spinach: Sauté the spinach just until it’s wilted. Overcooking can produce a mushy filling that detracts from the pie’s texture.
• Not seasoning enough: Season your filling well with salt and pepper. A bland filling can leave your Spanakopita lacking in flavor.
• Skipping the oil layers: Drizzling olive oil between phyllo layers is essential for achieving that flaky crust. Skipping this step will result in a less crispy texture.
• Cutting too deeply into the pie: When cutting the top layers, don’t cut all the way through to the bottom. This helps keep your slices intact and looking beautiful.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Spanakopita (Greek Spinach Pie)

• Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Spanakopita (Greek Spinach Pie)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but note that this may soften the crust.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat. Cover with a lid and heat for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Spanakopita (Greek Spinach Pie) that might help you.

Can I use other greens in Spanakopita?

Yes, you can substitute other greens like kale or Swiss chard if you’re looking for variety.

How do I make Spanakopita ahead of time?

Prepare your pie but do not bake it. Cover it tightly and refrigerate overnight, then bake when ready to serve.

Is Spanakopita suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! You can freeze it before baking or after, making it convenient for future meals.

What can I serve with Spanakopita?

Spanakopita pairs well with Greek salad or tzatziki sauce for added flavor and freshness.

Final Thoughts

Spanakopita (Greek Spinach Pie) is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different herbs or substituting ingredients according to your preference. This savory pie makes a perfect appetizer, main dish, or side, so don’t hesitate to try making it at home!