Spanakopita (Spinach Pie)
Try this Spanakopita (Spinach Pie) recipe.
Try this Spanakopita (Spinach Pie) recipe.
- salt and pepper to taste
- 3 eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup fresh dill chopped
- 1 package of phyllo dough (i use store bought phyllo
- 16 oz fresh spinach (or prepackaged and washed baby spin
- 6 spring onions finely chopped
- 12 oz feta cheese
- 10 oz cottage cheese cream cheese or ricotta*
- 1 cup extra virgin olive oil for oiling the pan and phyllo sheets
- Carbohydrate 2.12187219937741 g
- Cholesterol 74.1235358173333 mg
- Fat 16.3070579529143 g
- Fiber 0.00389374983436427 g
- Protein 8.21347313480344 g
- Saturated Fat 5.996893832821 g
- Serving Size 1 1 piece (110g)
- Sodium 416.167018231193 mg
- Sugar 2.11797844954305 g
- Trans Fat 0.960398580832744 g
- Calories 187 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- Wash and drain the spinach well.
- Tear the spinach up with your hands and add to a large bowl.
- Add the chopped spring onions and dill together and sprinkle with pepper.
- Crumble the feta in the bowl and add the eggs and cottage cheese (or ricotta/cream cheese).
- Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Mix together well with your hands.
- Brush a 9x12 baking pan with olive oil.
- Lay a sheet of phyllo dough on the bottom, leaving a slight overhang on the sides of the pan.
- Drizzle (very lightly) with olive oil and repeat until you have used 7 sheets of phyllo dough.
- Add the filling mixture to the pan and spread evenly.
- Bring the sheets that were hanging outside of the pan over the filling.
- Lay another 7 sheets of phyllo dough, and oil lightly between layers, repeating the process as done with the bottom layer.
- Fold the hanging phyllo layers on top of the pie.
- Drizzle the top of the pie with olive oil.
- Before baking, cut the pie into 12 squares, or how big you want your spanakopita pieces. This makes cutting the pie less messy when it gets out of the oven.
- Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes to an hour, until the top is golden brown.
- Allow the pie to cool for 15-20 minutes before serving.
- You may need to recut the pieces, so just follow along the cuts already made.
- Enjoy!
My Love Affair with Spanakopita: A Culinary Journey
For years, the aroma of warm, flaky pastry filled with savory spinach and cheese has been a comforting memory, a taste of home, and a symbol of gatherings with loved ones. This isn't just a recipe; it's a story, a tradition passed down through generations, and a testament to the simple joys of creating something delicious from scratch. Spanakopita, the Greek spinach pie, isn't just a dish; it's an experience.
My journey with Spanakopita began in my grandmother's kitchen. The air hung thick with the fragrance of fresh dill, the gentle sizzle of olive oil, and the rhythmic thud of her hands expertly layering phyllo dough. It wasn't just a cooking lesson; it was a masterclass in patience, precision, and love. Each carefully placed sheet of phyllo was a testament to her dedication, each fold a whisper of her stories and family history. The resulting pie, golden brown and bursting with flavor, wasn't just food; it was a warm hug, a taste of heritage, and a connection to my roots. This recipe, therefore, isn't just about the ingredients; it's about the memories, the traditions, and the love that goes into every bite.
Over the years, I've perfected my own version of this classic, experimenting with different cheeses, herbs, and even adding a touch of lemon zest for a bright, refreshing twist. However, the essence remains the same: the perfect balance of savory spinach, tangy feta, and the delicate crunch of golden-brown phyllo. The process itself is a meditative one, a calming ritual that allows me to escape the daily hustle and connect with something deeper. The rhythmic layering of phyllo, the gentle mixing of ingredients – these are the moments of mindful creation that make cooking such a rewarding experience.
Beyond the Recipe: A Symbol of Gathering
Spanakopita, for me, has always been more than just a meal; it's a centerpiece of gatherings, a symbol of shared joy, and a reminder of the importance of connection. Whether it's a family dinner, a holiday celebration, or simply a casual get-together with friends, this pie always manages to bring people together. The aroma alone is enough to draw everyone in, creating an atmosphere of warmth, comfort, and anticipation.
The act of sharing Spanakopita is an act of sharing love, tradition, and a piece of oneself. It's a way of connecting with others on a deeper level, transcending the boundaries of language and culture. The shared experience of breaking bread, or in this case, breaking pie, is a powerful reminder of our shared humanity and the simple joys of life.
More Than Just a Pie: A Culinary Legacy
Making Spanakopita isn't just about following a recipe; it's about carrying on a legacy. It's about honoring the traditions of the past while adding my own personal touch. It's about creating memories that will be passed down to future generations, memories filled with the aroma of warm phyllo, the taste of savory spinach, and the warmth of shared experiences.
This recipe, therefore, is more than just a set of instructions; it's a story, a tradition, and a legacy. It's a recipe for connection, for sharing, and for creating memories that will last a lifetime. So, gather your ingredients, gather your loved ones, and embark on this culinary adventure. Create your own Spanakopita story, and let the aroma and taste transport you to a place of warmth, tradition, and love. Enjoy every delicious bite!
