Spanakopita is a classic Greek pastry filled with spinach and feta cheese, wrapped in flaky phyllo dough. This savory dish is perfect as an appetizer or a light meal.
The recipe is simple and requires basic cooking techniques. You can serve it warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for any occasion.
What is Spanakopita?
Spanakopita is a beloved Greek pastry that combines the earthy flavors of spinach with the creamy richness of feta cheese.
This dish is wrapped in delicate layers of phyllo dough, creating a delightful contrast of textures.
Often enjoyed as an appetizer or a light meal, spanakopita is versatile enough to suit various occasions.
Ingredients That Make It Special
The filling of spanakopita is a harmonious blend of sautéed spinach, onions, and crumbled feta cheese.
Fresh herbs like dill can be added for an extra layer of flavor, enhancing the overall taste profile.
The use of phyllo dough is essential, as it provides the flaky, crispy exterior that complements the soft filling perfectly.
Preparation Techniques
Preparing spanakopita involves a few straightforward steps that yield impressive results.
Start by sautéing onions until they become translucent, then add the spinach until it wilts.
Combining this mixture with feta and eggs creates a rich filling that is both satisfying and nutritious.
Layering the Phyllo Dough
Layering phyllo dough is a crucial step in achieving that signature crunch.
Each sheet is brushed with melted butter, which not only adds flavor but also helps create those flaky layers.
This process is repeated several times to ensure the pastry is robust enough to hold the filling.
Baking to Perfection
Baking spanakopita requires a preheated oven to ensure even cooking.
The pastries should be brushed with more melted butter before going into the oven, promoting a beautifully golden-brown finish.
Typically, they take about 25-30 minutes to bake, transforming into a crispy delight that is hard to resist.
Serving Suggestions
Spanakopita is best enjoyed warm, but it can also be served at room temperature, making it a great option for gatherings.
Pairing it with tzatziki sauce adds a refreshing contrast that complements the savory filling.
Garnishing with fresh herbs not only enhances the presentation but also adds a burst of flavor.
Easy Spanakopita Recipe
This spanakopita features a delicious filling of sautéed spinach, onions, and creamy feta cheese, all encased in layers of crispy phyllo dough. The recipe takes about 1 hour from start to finish and serves 6 people.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh spinach, washed and chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 package (16 oz) phyllo dough, thawed
- 1/2 cup melted butter or olive oil for brushing
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes). Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Mix the Filling: In a bowl, combine the sautéed spinach and onion mixture with feta cheese, beaten eggs, dill, salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined.
- Prepare the Phyllo: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lay out one sheet of phyllo dough on a clean surface and brush lightly with melted butter. Layer another sheet on top and brush again. Repeat this process for 4-5 sheets.
- Fill and Fold: Place a portion of the spinach filling along one edge of the phyllo. Fold the sides over the filling and roll it up tightly to form a log. Place the rolled spanakopita seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Repeat: Continue this process with the remaining phyllo sheets and filling, placing each rolled spanakopita on the baking sheet.
- Bake: Brush the tops of the spanakopita with more melted butter. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 pieces
- Calories: 250kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
