Spanakopita Greek Spinach Pie

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Spanakopita is one of those dishes that transports you straight to the sun-kissed shores of Greece.

This delicious spinach pie, wrapped in crispy layers of flaky filo pastry, is filled with a creamy mixture of spinach and cheese, making it the perfect appetizer or main course for any meal.

If you’re looking for a dish that impresses guests and satisfies your cravings, look no further!

Now, let’s dive into the details and learn how to make this delightful Spanakopita.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Spanakopita is not only a feast for the senses, but it’s also incredibly versatile.

It can be served warm or at room temperature, making it a great addition to any gathering.

The combination of fresh spinach, aromatic herbs, and creamy feta cheese creates a flavor explosion that is both nutritious and satisfying.

Plus, it’s easier to make than you might think.

With just a few steps, you can create a beautiful and impressive dish that will have everyone asking for your secret recipe!

Ingredients

To make a delicious Spanakopita, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds (680 g) fresh spinach or 2 pounds frozen spinach
• 6 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• ¼ cup sliced green onions
• ¼ cup chopped fresh dill
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup (125 g) sour cream
• ½ cup (130 g) feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 16 ounce (450 g) package filo pastry
• Egg wash: 1 egg beaten with 2 tablespoons water
• Black and white sesame seeds (optional)

How To Make Spanakopita Greek Spinach Pie

Making Spanakopita may sound a little daunting, but it’s all about layering flavors and techniques.

Follow these simple steps to create your own Spinach Pie!

Step 1: Prepare the Spinach

If you’re using fresh spinach, rinse it well under cold water.

Then, remove the tough stems and roughly chop the leaves.

If you’re using frozen spinach, ensure it’s fully thawed and squeeze out as much excess water as possible.

This helps prevent a soggy pie!

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.

Add the diced yellow onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent.

Then, stir in the sliced green onions, minced garlic, and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Spinach and Herbs

Next, add the chopped spinach to the skillet.

Cook it for 3-5 minutes or until it wilts down significantly.

Remove the skillet from heat, and stir in the fresh dill and parsley.

This combination of herbs will add a fantastic flavor to your filling!

Step 4: Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sour cream, crumbled feta cheese, salt, and black pepper.

Add the sautéed spinach mixture to the bowl and mix everything until well combined.

The filling should be creamy and aromatic!

Step 5: Prepare the Filo Pastry

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Now it’s time to work with the filo pastry.

Make sure to cover the sheets with a damp towel to prevent them from drying out.

Take one sheet and brush it lightly with olive oil.

Then, layer another sheet on top and brush it again.

Repeat this process until you have about 5 sheets layered.

Step 6: Assemble the Spanakopita

Once your layers are ready, scoop about 1 cup of the spinach filling into the center of the layered filo pastry.

Fold the sides of the pastry over the filling, and then roll it up tightly, sealing the edges.

Place the rolled spanakopita seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Repeat this for the remaining filling and pastry.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Before placing your Spanakopita in the oven, brush the tops with the egg wash and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.

Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crispy.

Your kitchen will be filled with the most amazing aroma!

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Once baked, let the Spanakopita cool for a few minutes.

Slice it into squares or triangles and serve warm.

This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or yogurt sauce.

Enjoy your homemade Greek Spinach Pie with family and friends!

Expert Tips

• Don’t rush the spinach prep. Properly draining water, especially from frozen spinach, is crucial to avoid a soggy pie.
• Feel free to experiment with herbs. Adding mint or oregano can change the flavor profile beautifully.
• To save time, you can prep the filling a day in advance and assemble it just before baking.
• If you have leftovers, try using them in a breakfast omelet or a wrap for a delicious next-day meal!

Variations and Customizations

• For a more meaty version, you can add cooked ground lamb or chicken to the filling.
• Use ricotta cheese in place of sour cream for a creamier flavor.
• Mix in some sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean twist.
• If you prefer, you can make individual spanakopita triangles instead of a large pie for easy serving at parties.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftover Spanakopita, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm it for about 10-15 minutes.

This will ensure it stays crispy on the outside.

FAQ

Can I make Spanakopita ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and assemble the pie a day in advance.

Just cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate.

Bake it fresh when you’re ready to eat.

Can I freeze Spanakopita?

Yes, Spanakopita freezes wonderfully! You can freeze it before baking.

Just wrap it tightly and store in an airtight container.

When ready to bake, no need to thaw, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What can I serve with Spanakopita?

Spanakopita pairs well with a simple Greek salad, tzatziki sauce, or even a cup of soup.

The fresh flavors complement each other beautifully.

Can I substitute the feta cheese?

Certainly! You can use a different cheese such as goat cheese or ricotta for a different taste.

Just make sure it’s crumbled or blended smoothly for the best texture.

Conclusion

Now that you have all the steps and tips to make your own Spanakopita Greek Spinach Pie, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking! This dish is not only delicious but also a beautiful way to celebrate fresh ingredients and traditional flavors.

Whether you serve it at a big gathering or enjoy it on a cozy night in, your Spanakopita will surely impress and satisfy.

Happy cooking!

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