Greek Spinach and Feta Pie (Spanakopita)
This dish is basically a mix of spinach, eggs, herbs, and feta cheese, similar to a frittata, but with a phyllo dough crust.
This dish is basically a mix of spinach, eggs, herbs, and feta cheese, similar to a frittata, but with a phyllo dough crust.
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 clove garlic minced or grated
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup fresh oregano chopped
- 1/3 cup fresh basil chopped
- 1/3 cup fresh dill chopped
- 16 ounces frozen spinach thawed and squeezed dry
- 10 ounces feta cheese crumbled
- 1 pinch kosher salt and black pepper
- 12-18 sheets frozen phyllo dough thawed
- 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter melted
- Carbohydrate 46.4747670651773 g
- Cholesterol 1532.31075560402 mg
- Fat 111.227911671784 g
- Fiber 20.2988124540181 g
- Protein 102.005782018838 g
- Saturated Fat 56.2489517671457 g
- Serving Size 1 1 recipe (1106g)
- Sodium 4117.31313171838 mg
- Sugar 26.1759546111592 g
- Trans Fat 11.1192898135372 g
- Calories 1540 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat the oven to 350º F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, combine the spinach, eggs, olive oil, feta, parmesan, basil, dill, oregano, lemon zest, garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, and a pinch each of salt and pepper.
- Place 1 sheet of phyllo dough on the prepared baking sheet and brush the phyllo with melted butter. Repeat, layering 2 more times, placing the sheets of dough over top each other. Now brush another sheet of dough with butter and place perpendicular to the bottom layer, creating an X. Repeat this layer 2 more times. Brush another sheet of dough with butter and place slightly off center of the x. Repeat this layer 2 more times. (Simplistically, use 9 sheets of phyllo dough, 3 layers, in 3 different directions, like a star.)
- Spoon the spinach filling onto the center of the phyllo dough star, leaving about 2 inches of edge space. Bring the edges of the dough up and over the spinach.
- Brush the remaining 3 sheets of phyllo dough with butter and layer over top of the spinach, crinkling them slightly to fit. Sprinkle the sesame seeds over the dough.
- Transfer to the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, until phyllo is golden brown. Serve warm or at room temperature.
My Greek Spinach and Feta Pie Adventure: A Culinary Journey
As a busy working mom, finding time for elaborate cooking can feel like a Herculean task. Between juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and the never-ending cycle of laundry, a quick, yet delicious, meal is always a priority. That's why I've become a firm believer in recipes that pack maximum flavor without demanding excessive time in the kitchen. And this Greek Spinach and Feta Pie, or Spanakopita as the purists call it (a word I still struggle to pronounce!), is a perfect example. It's a dish that elevates a simple weeknight dinner into a culinary adventure, satisfying both my palate and my need for efficiency.
The magic lies in the beautiful balance of flavors. The salty tang of the feta cheese, the earthy richness of the spinach, and the aromatic burst of fresh herbs create a symphony of tastes. I love how the vibrant green of the spinach is punctuated by the creamy white of the feta, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious. The phyllo dough adds a delicate crispness that elevates the entire dish, a wonderful textural contrast to the soft, comforting filling. And while the layering of the phyllo dough might seem daunting, trust me, it's much simpler than it initially appears. Once you master the technique (and it’s really just a matter of practice), you'll be amazed at how effortlessly you can create this culinary masterpiece.
What makes this dish so special is its versatility. It's equally delicious served warm from the oven, its golden crust radiating heat, or at room temperature, allowing for easy preparation ahead of time. I often make a large pie on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week, whether it's a quick lunch, a satisfying dinner, or even a delightful appetizer for unexpected guests. The leftovers, if there are any, are just as delicious the next day, which is a bonus for a busy schedule.
This recipe has become a staple in our home, a culinary hug in a world that often feels too hectic. It's a dish that invites sharing, a centerpiece for family gatherings or casual weeknight meals. It's also remarkably adaptable to personal preferences. Feel free to adjust the herbs, experiment with different cheeses, or add other vegetables to customize the recipe to your liking. The beauty of this pie is its adaptability; it's a canvas for culinary creativity, allowing you to tailor it to your taste buds.
So, my friends, if you're looking for a delicious, satisfying, and relatively easy meal to add to your repertoire, I urge you to try this Greek Spinach and Feta Pie. It's more than just a dish; it's a culinary journey, a testament to the simple joys of good food and the satisfaction of creating something delicious from scratch. And who knows, maybe you'll even master the pronunciation of "Spanakopita" along the way!
