Spanakopita

Spanakopita is a delightful Greek dish that combines crisp phyllo dough with a flavorful spinach and feta filling. Perfect for gatherings, parties, or a cozy family dinner, this recipe showcases the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Its flaky texture and savory taste make spanakopita a beloved favorite that will impress anyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish without any hassle.
• Versatile Dish: Spanakopita can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or main course, making it suitable for any occasion.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with spinach and fresh herbs, this recipe is not only tasty but also nutritious.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its rich flavors and flaky texture are sure to satisfy both vegetarians and meat lovers alike.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare spanakopita in advance and simply bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process and make it more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking pan (9×13 inches)
• Pastry brush
• Mixing bowl
• Large sharp knife
• Damp paper towel

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking pan: A sturdy pan ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect golden crust.
• Pastry brush: This tool is essential for applying olive oil to the layers of phyllo dough for that flaky texture.
• Large sharp knife: A sharp knife allows you to cut through the layers neatly without tearing the delicate dough.

Ingredients

Spanakopita is a traditional Greek dish made with phyllo dough and loaded with a delicious spinach and feta filling!

For the Dough

• 16 ounces phyllo dough
• 1 cup olive oil

For the Filling

• 20 ounces frozen chopped spinach (thawed and drained)
• 1 yellow onion (finely diced)
• 12 ounces crumbled feta cheese
• 1 bunch fresh parsley (minced)
• 1 ½ cups grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3 large eggs
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

How to Make Spanakopita

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F. Brush the bottom and sides of a 9×13-inch baking pan with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare Phyllo Dough

Roll out the thawed phyllo dough. Cover the stack with a lightly damp paper towel to keep it from drying out. If necessary, trim off excess dough so it fits your baking dish.

Step 3: Layer the Dough

Place two pieces of phyllo dough in the bottom of the pan, brushing them liberally with olive oil. Continue layering until just eight sheets of dough remain.

Step 4: Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine all filling ingredients—frozen spinach, diced onion, crumbled feta cheese, minced parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, kosher salt, minced garlic, eggs, and red pepper flakes. Mix well until combined.

Step 5: Add Filling to Dough

Spread the filling mixture evenly over the layered phyllo dough in the pan.

Step 6: Finish Layering Dough

Add the remaining phyllo sheets on top of the filling. Brush every two layers generously with olive oil. For the top layer, brush with olive oil and add a few drops of water for extra crispness.

Step 7: Cut & Bake

Using a large sharp knife, cut through just the top layer of dough into desired serving sizes. Bake for about one hour or until golden brown on top. Once baked, finish cutting into pieces and serve warm.

Enjoy your homemade spanakopita!

How to Serve Spanakopita

Spanakopita is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it as a main course or an appetizer, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

As an Appetizer

• Serve warm or at room temperature for a delicious start to any meal.
• Pair with a yogurt dip or tzatziki for extra flavor.

With a Salad

• A fresh Greek salad complements the rich flavors of spanakopita beautifully.
• Consider a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette for a light touch.

Alongside Soup

• Enjoy spanakopita as a side with hearty soups like lentil or tomato basil.
• It adds texture and flavor contrast to your soup experience.

For Brunch

• Spanakopita makes an excellent addition to brunch spreads.
• Serve alongside quiche or fruit platters for variety.

At Parties

• Cut into smaller squares or triangles for bite-sized portions.
• Pair with drinks and other finger foods on a buffet table.

With Dipping Sauces

• Offer sauces like harissa or a spicy chili paste for those who enjoy bold flavors.
• A drizzle of balsamic reduction also adds a gourmet touch.

How to Perfect Spanakopita

To achieve the ideal spanakopita, consider these helpful tips that will enhance your cooking experience and ensure delicious results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh spinach and herbs when possible. They contribute significantly to the flavor profile of your dish.

• Thaw Phyllo Properly: Ensure your phyllo dough is fully thawed before use. This prevents tearing and ensures even layering.

• Brush Generously with Oil: Don’t skimp on the olive oil between layers. It helps create that flaky texture we love in spanakopita.

• Avoid Overfilling: Be careful not to overload the filling. This keeps the pastry from becoming soggy and maintains its crispiness.

• Slice Before Baking: Cutting through the top layer of dough before baking allows steam to escape, resulting in a perfectly crispy finish.

Best Side Dishes for Spanakopita

Serving spanakopita is easy when you pair it with delicious side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Greek Salad: A classic mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese dressed in olive oil enhances any meal, adding freshness.

2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables tossed in olive oil and herbs provide color and nutrition, balancing the richness of the spanakopita.

3. Hummus Platter: Serve with pita bread and assorted veggies; hummus offers creaminess that pairs well with the flaky pastry.

4. Tzatziki Sauce: This cool cucumber yogurt sauce brings refreshing flavors that nicely contrast the savory filling of spanakopita.

5. Lentil Soup: A hearty bowl of lentil soup makes for a nutritious pairing, offering warmth and depth alongside your dish.

6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with herbs and lemon gives a healthy option that complements the flavors without being heavy.

7. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas): These provide another Mediterranean touch, filled with rice and herbs for added texture and taste alongside spanakopita.

8. Feta Cheese Plate: Offer various cheeses alongside olives; this creates an inviting appetizer spread that matches well with spanakopita’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making spanakopita, it’s easy to overlook certain details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the thawing step – Ensure your frozen spinach is completely thawed and well-drained to prevent a soggy filling.
• Not using enough olive oil – Olive oil is crucial for achieving that flaky texture, so don’t skimp on brushing between layers of phyllo dough.
• Overfilling the dough – If you add too much filling, the dough won’t crisp up properly. Stick to the recommended amount for optimal results.
• Failing to cut before baking – Cutting the top layer of dough allows steam to escape and helps in getting even pieces once baked.
• Ignoring baking time – Oven temperatures can vary. Keep an eye on your spanakopita to ensure it turns golden brown without burning.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover spanakopita in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Spanakopita

• Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Frozen spanakopita will stay fresh for up to 2 months.

Reheating Spanakopita

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Use a microwave-safe plate and heat in short intervals, checking frequently. This method may make it less crispy.
• Stovetop – Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat and warm each piece for about 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Spanakopita?

Spanakopita is a traditional Greek pastry made with layers of phyllo dough filled with spinach, feta cheese, and herbs. It’s known for its flaky texture and savory flavor.

How do I know when my Spanakopita is done?

Your spanakopita is ready when the top layer is golden brown and flaky. It should look appetizing and smell delicious!

Can I customize the filling of my Spanakopita?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other ingredients like ricotta cheese or different herbs according to your taste preferences.

How do I make Spanakopita vegan-friendly?

To make a vegan version, substitute feta with plant-based cheese and use flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with water as an egg replacer.

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh spinach! Just cook it down first, drain any excess moisture, and proceed with the recipe as directed.

Final Thoughts

Spanakopita is not only delicious but also versatile. This dish can be served as a main course or an appetizer, making it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite ingredients or herbs. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!