Greek Spinach Pie Spanakopita

Crispy layers of phyllo dough filled with seasoned spinach and feta cheese make Greek Spinach Pie Spanakopita a delightful addition to any meal. This dish is not only delicious but also versatile, perfect for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or special occasions. The combination of fresh ingredients and traditional Mediterranean flavors sets this pie apart, making it a favorite among both home cooks and guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, anyone can create this delicious dish without fuss.
• Flavorful Filling: The blend of spinach and feta offers a savory taste that is hard to resist.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main dish, appetizer, or side at any gathering.
• Health Benefits: Packed with spinach, this pie provides essential vitamins and minerals.
• Impressive Presentation: The golden-brown layers of phyllo are visually stunning on any table.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing Greek Spinach Pie Spanakopita easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you will need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Baking dish
• Sharp knife
• Spatula
• Brush for oil

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for sautéing the leeks and spinach evenly.
• Baking dish: A good-quality dish ensures even cooking and browning.
• Sharp knife: Useful for scoring the top layer of phyllo without tearing it.
• Spatula: Ideal for leveling the filling for a neat appearance.

Ingredients

Crispy layers of phyllo dough filled with seasoned spinach and feta cheese, baked to golden perfection in the Mediterranean tradition.

For the Filling

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 450 g leeks, chopped
• 900 g fresh spinach, chopped (frozen spinach can be substituted)
• 450 g feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

For the Dough

• 450 g phyllo dough (filo pastry)
• 115 g olive oil

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Greek Spinach Pie Spanakopita

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Chop the spinach and leeks thoroughly to ensure they blend well in the filling.

Step 2: Sauté Leeks

Transfer olive oil and leeks to a large pot. Sauté over medium-high heat until leeks are soft, glossy, and translucent.

Step 3: Add Spinach

Add chopped spinach to the pot. Stir until wilted. Reduce heat to a gentle simmer until all excess moisture evaporates. If you’re short on time, cook spinach for 10 minutes then drain excess liquid.

Step 4: Mix Filling Ingredients

Remove pot from heat. Allow it to cool slightly before adding crumbled feta cheese, black pepper, and salt. Mix everything together well. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).

Step 6: Assemble Phyllo Base

Grease your baking dish with olive oil. Cover it with two-thirds of the phyllo pastry sheets, brushing each sheet with olive oil. Ensure they overlap in a ruffled pattern for better texture after baking.

Step 7: Fill the Pie

Fill your pie shell with the prepared spinach and feta mixture. Level out the surface with a spatula.

Step 8: Cover with Phyllo Layers

Fold inward any overlapping phyllo sheets from the sides over the filling. Cover it with remaining phyllo sheets while greasing each layer with olive oil. Tuck edges between pie and pan.

Step 9: Score & Bake

Score the top layer lightly with a sharp knife without cutting through completely. Sprinkle lightly with water for extra crispiness. Bake on the lower rack for about 60 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool for 30 minutes before cutting into pieces.

Enjoy your homemade Greek Spinach Pie Spanakopita!

How to Serve Greek Spinach Pie Spanakopita

Serving Greek Spinach Pie Spanakopita is a delightful experience that brings the rich flavors of the Mediterranean to your table. This savory pie can be enjoyed in various ways, making it perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner.

As a Main Course

• Serve warm with a side salad for a complete meal.
• Pair with roasted vegetables for a hearty dish.

As an Appetizer

• Cut into smaller pieces and serve as finger food at parties.
• Accompany with tzatziki sauce for added flavor.

With Yogurt or Sour Cream

• Top individual slices with a dollop of yogurt or sour cream for creaminess.
• Use Greek yogurt to enhance the Mediterranean theme.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle fresh dill or parsley on top before serving to brighten up the dish.
• A squeeze of lemon can also add a refreshing touch.

How to Perfect Greek Spinach Pie Spanakopita

To achieve the best results with your Greek Spinach Pie Spanakopita, follow these simple tips that will elevate your dish.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and leeks provide better flavor and texture than frozen options.
• Layer phyllo carefully: Ensure each layer is brushed with olive oil to achieve maximum crispiness.
• Remove excess moisture: Properly cook and drain spinach to prevent a soggy bottom crust.
• Score the top: Scoring helps steam escape during baking, leading to a flakier crust.
• Let it cool before slicing: Allowing the pie to cool for 30 minutes makes cutting easier and helps maintain its shape.

Best Side Dishes for Greek Spinach Pie Spanakopita

Pairing side dishes with your Greek Spinach Pie Spanakopita can enhance the dining experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese dressed in olive oil.
2. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs complement the pie beautifully.
3. Hummus Platter: Serve assorted hummus varieties with pita bread and veggies for dipping.
4. Stuffed Grape Leaves: These tangy bites make an excellent accompaniment to spanakopita.
5. Grilled Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables grilled to perfection adds color and flavor.
6. Lemon Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice infused with lemon complements the savory flavors of the pie.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Greek Spinach Pie Spanakopita is a delightful experience. However, certain missteps can affect your final dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the moisture reduction: Not cooking the spinach long enough can lead to a soggy pie. Always ensure excess moisture evaporates before filling the phyllo.

• Neglecting phyllo dough care: Phyllo can dry out quickly. Keep it covered with a damp cloth while you work to maintain its pliability.

• Inconsistent seasoning: Under-seasoning or over-seasoning can alter the flavor profile. Taste your filling before assembly and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

• Improper layering of phyllo: Using too few layers can result in a less crispy crust. Always brush each sheet with olive oil and use enough layers for a perfect crunch.

• Not preheating the oven: Skipping this step may affect your baking time and result in uneven cooking. Preheat your oven to the correct temperature before placing your pie inside.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the Greek Spinach Pie Spanakopita is completely cool before sealing.

Freezing Greek Spinach Pie Spanakopita

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Greek Spinach Pie Spanakopita

• Oven: Preheat to 180°C (350°F), place pie on a baking sheet, and reheat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.

• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, covering with a lid to keep moisture in while warming evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Greek Spinach Pie Spanakopita?

Greek Spinach Pie Spanakopita is a traditional savory pie made with layers of flaky phyllo dough filled with seasoned spinach and feta cheese. It’s often enjoyed as an appetizer or main dish.

Can I use frozen spinach for Spanakopita?

Yes, frozen spinach can be used as a substitute for fresh spinach. Just thaw and drain it thoroughly before mixing it with leeks and feta.

How do I make my phyllo layers crispy?

To achieve crispy phyllo layers, make sure to brush each layer generously with olive oil and avoid letting the sheets dry out while assembling your pie.

Can I customize the filling of my Greek Spinach Pie Spanakopita?

Absolutely! You can add other ingredients like ricotta cheese, herbs such as dill or parsley, or even sautéed onions for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

Greek Spinach Pie Spanakopita is not only delicious but also versatile. This recipe allows you to enjoy flaky pastry filled with nutritious greens and creamy feta cheese. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite herbs or spices! Give this recipe a try; you might just find it becomes a new family favorite!