Spanakopita Spinach Pie

Introduction

Spanakopita Spinach Pie: A Mediterranean Delight

Get ready to savor the deliciousness of Spanakopita Spinach Pie! This Greek classic is filled with a delightful mixture of spinach, feta cheese, and herbs, all wrapped in crispy, flaky phyllo pastry. Perfect as a main dish or a savory appetizer, this pie brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your table. With its golden crust and mouthwatering filling, it’s sure to impress your family and friends at any gathering.

I remember the first time I tried Spanakopita; it was at my grandmother’s house during one of our Sunday family get-togethers. She would whip up a big batch, and the smell would fill the kitchen, making everyone eager to dig in. As a kid, I was always fascinated by how she managed to make those delicate layers of phyllo so crispy and light. It seemed like magic! Now, every time I make this dish, it takes me back to those warm, laughter-filled afternoons.

The best part? You don’t need to be a seasoned chef to pull this off. If you’re new to cooking, don’t worry! Working with phyllo pastry might sound intimidating, but it’s really just a matter of layering and brushing with butter or oil. Take your time, and soon you’ll be a pro at it. Just remember to keep the sheets covered with a damp towel while you work to prevent them from drying out. Trust me, the end result will be worth every minute spent in the kitchen.

So grab your ingredients, and let’s create a dish that’ll not only fill your belly but also warm your heart. You’ve got this!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are several reasons to fall in love with Spanakopita Spinach Pie:

• Flavorful Filling: The combination of spinach, feta, and herbs creates a rich and savory flavor profile.
• Crispy Crust: The flaky phyllo pastry adds a wonderful texture that complements the filling perfectly.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it warm or at room temperature, making it great for any occasion.
• Quick Preparation: With just a few steps, you can whip up this impressive dish in no time.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with spinach, it’s a nutritious option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
• Perfect for Any Skill Level: Whether you’re a novice cook or an experienced chef, this recipe is easy to follow.
• Great for Leftovers: It reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve it whole for a stunning centerpiece, or slice it into individual servings for a buffet.
• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this tasty pie!
• Customizable: Feel free to add other ingredients like herbs or spices to make it your own.

Preparation Time and Cook Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 8 slices
• Calories per slice: Approximately 230 calories
• Key Nutrients: Fiber: 2g, Fat: 14g, Carbohydrates: 22g, Protein: 5g

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your Spanakopita Spinach Pie:

For the Filling:

• 1 pound fresh spinach (or 10 oz frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1/4 cup fresh dill or parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Phyllo Dough:

• 1 package phyllo dough (16 oz), thawed
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (or olive oil for a lighter option)

Ingredient Highlights

• Fresh Spinach: A nutritious base for the filling that adds vibrant color and flavor.
• Feta Cheese: Provides a creamy, tangy taste that pairs perfectly with spinach.
• Phyllo Dough: This pastry is light and flaky, creating a delicious contrast to the savory filling.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Spanakopita Spinach Pie:

Prepare the Filling

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant (about 5 minutes).
3. Prepare Spinach: If using fresh spinach, rinse and chop it, then add it to the skillet, cooking until wilted. If using frozen spinach, make sure it’s thoroughly drained and add it directly.
4. Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the spinach mixture with feta, ricotta, beaten eggs, dill, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Assemble the Pie

1. Prepare the Phyllo: On a clean surface, lay out the phyllo dough. Keep the unused sheets covered with a damp towel to prevent drying.
2. Layer Phyllo Sheets: Brush a 9-inch pie dish with melted butter. Place one sheet of phyllo dough in the dish and brush with butter. Repeat, layering about 6 sheets, brushing each with butter.
3. Add the Filling: Spoon the spinach mixture into the phyllo-lined dish, spreading it evenly.
4. Top with Phyllo: Layer additional phyllo sheets on top, brushing each with butter. Fold the edges over the filling to create a sealed pie.
5. Score the Top: Lightly score the top layers of phyllo with a knife to create serving pieces.

Bake the Pie

1. Bake: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
2. Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.

How to Serve

Here are some fun serving ideas for your Spanakopita Spinach Pie:

1. Serve with Yogurt Dip: Pair with tzatziki or plain yogurt for a refreshing contrast.
2. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle with additional dill or parsley for a pop of color.
3. Accompany with Salad: Serve alongside a Greek salad for a complete meal.
4. Use as an Appetizer: Cut into smaller squares for a delightful party appetizer.
5. Make a Platter: Arrange slices on a serving platter for a beautiful presentation.
6. Engage Guests: Encourage guests to customize their slices with toppings like olives or peppers.
7. Perfect for Picnics: Enjoy it cold during outdoor gatherings or picnics.
8. Wrap for Lunch: Pack slices for a delicious lunch on-the-go.
9. Pair with Wine: Complement with a crisp white wine for an elegant touch.
10. Serve with a Lemon Wedge: A squeeze of lemon enhances the flavors of the pie.

Additional Tips

Maximize your enjoyment of Spanakopita Spinach Pie with these helpful tips:

1. Prep Ahead: Make the filling a day in advance and assemble just before baking for easy prep.
2. Check Phyllo for Freshness: Ensure your phyllo dough is fresh for the best texture.
3. Customize the Filling: Experiment with adding other ingredients, like artichokes or mushrooms, for a unique twist.
4. Use Olive Oil: For a healthier option, brush the phyllo with olive oil instead of butter.
5. Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
6. Reheat: To reheat, place slices in the oven for a few minutes until warm and crispy again.
7. Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the filling before baking to adjust salt and pepper as needed.
8. Experiment with Herbs: Try different herbs like oregano or basil for variety in flavor.
9. Keep it Crispy: Avoid covering the pie with foil while baking to keep the crust crispy.
10. Make Mini Pies: Use muffin tins to create individual spanakopita for easy serving.

Recipe Variations

Consider these creative variations for your Spanakopita Spinach Pie:

• Add Meat: Incorporate cooked ground beef or chicken for a heartier dish.
• Vegan Version: Substitute eggs and cheese with tofu and nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly option.
• Herbed Crust: Mix dried herbs into the melted butter for added flavor in the crust.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like goat cheese or mozzarella for a twist.
• Add Nuts: Sprinkle in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for added crunch.
• Spice it Up: Add red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Sweet Spinach: For a dessert twist, use a sweetened filling with raisins and nuts.
• Layered Style: Create a layered version with multiple fillings, like mushrooms and zucchini.
• Quiche Style: Make it more quiche-like by adding a custard layer made from eggs and cream.
• Use Leftover Greens: Substitute any leftover greens you have on hand, like kale or Swiss chard.

Freezing and Storage

Ensure proper storage to maintain the quality of your Spanakopita Spinach Pie:

• Storage: Keep any leftover pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Unbaked pie can be frozen. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Thawing: Thaw frozen pie in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
• Reheating: Reheat baked pie in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Special Equipment

You may need these kitchen tools to create your Spanakopita Spinach Pie:

• Pie Dish: For baking the spanakopita.
• Skillet: To sauté the onions and spinach filling.
• Mixing Bowls: For combining the filling ingredients.
• Pastry Brush: To brush melted butter or oil onto the phyllo dough.
• Sharp Knife: For scoring the top layer of phyllo.

Print

Conclusion

I can’t wait for you to try this Spanakopita Spinach Pie! It’s such a delightful dish that brings a touch of the Mediterranean to your table. Whether you’re whipping it up for a cozy family dinner or serving it at a festive gathering, I’m sure it will be a hit. The flaky pastry, vibrant spinach, and creamy feta come together to create a savory experience that everyone will love.

As you roll up your sleeves and gather your ingredients, remember to have fun with the process! Cooking is all about experimenting and making it your own. Don’t hesitate to add your favorite herbs or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.

Once you’ve baked this beauty to golden perfection, I’d love to hear all about it! Please leave a comment to share your thoughts or any tips you discovered along the way. And if you’re active on social media, snap a photo of your finished dish and tag me—I absolutely love seeing your delicious creations! It’s always inspiring to see how everyone puts their spin on the recipe. So, let’s celebrate the joy of cooking together! Happy baking!