Greek Spinach Pie Spanakopita

Crispy layers of phyllo dough filled with seasoned spinach and feta cheese make Greek Spinach Pie Spanakopita a delightful dish for any occasion. This savory pie is perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or even a cozy night in. Its unique blend of flavors and textures showcases the best of Mediterranean cuisine, ensuring each bite is a memorable experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish without stress.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of fresh spinach and creamy feta creates an irresistible taste that will impress your guests.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm or at room temperature, making it great for buffets or picnics.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with spinach and leeks, this pie offers nutritional benefits while being delicious.
• Impressive Presentation: The golden, crispy phyllo crust gives a stunning look that adds elegance to any table setting.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process. Having everything ready will streamline your time in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for sautéing leeks and wilting spinach evenly.
• Baking dish: A good quality dish ensures even baking and helps achieve that golden crust.
• Spatula: Useful for leveling the filling and folding the phyllo layers neatly.
• Sharp knife: Important for scoring the top layer of phyllo to create an appealing design.

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 Crust

• 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

1. Chop the spinach and leeks thoroughly.

Step 2: Sauté Leeks

1. Transfer olive oil and leeks to a large pot and sauté over medium-high heat.
2. Stir occasionally until leeks are soft, glossy, and translucent.

Step 3: Add Spinach

1. Add chopped spinach to the pot.
2. Stir until wilted. Reduce heat to a gentle simmer.
3. Cook until all excess moisture has evaporated to avoid sogginess. If short on time, you can cook spinach for 10 minutes before draining excess liquid.

Step 4: Mix Filling

1. Remove pot from heat and let cool slightly.
2. Add crumbled feta cheese, freshly grated black pepper, and a pinch of salt.
3. Mix well to combine; taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 5: Preheat Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).

Step 6: Assemble Phyllo Layers

1. Grease baking dish with olive oil.
2. Cover with two-thirds of the phyllo pastry, brushing each sheet with olive oil as you layer them; ensure sheets overlap the dish.
3. Arrange sheets in a ruffled pattern to trap air for crispiness.

Step 7: Fill the Pie

1. Spoon in the spinach and feta mixture.
2. Level the surface using a spatula.

Step 8: Cover with Phyllo

1. Fold inward overlapping phyllo sheets from edges over filling.
2. Cover with remaining phyllo layers, greasing each layer with olive oil.
3. Tuck surface phyllo between pie edges and pan.

Step 9: Bake

1. Score the top layer lightly with a sharp knife (do not cut all the way through).
2. Lightly sprinkle surface with 2 tablespoons of water for a crispier crust.
3. Bake on the lower rack for about 60 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Allow cooling for at least 30 minutes before cutting into slices.

This Greek Spinach Pie Spanakopita is sure to become a favorite in your home! Enjoy its rich flavors as part of your main dishes repertoire!

How to Serve Greek Spinach Pie Spanakopita

Greek Spinach Pie Spanakopita is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether as a main course or a starter, this savory pie offers versatility that appeals to many palates.

As a Main Dish

• Serve warm with a side of fresh salad for a light meal.
• Pair with roasted vegetables to enhance the Mediterranean flavors.

As an Appetizer

• Cut into small squares and serve at parties or gatherings for an easy finger food.
• Accompany with tzatziki sauce for added flavor.

For Brunch

• Serve alongside eggs and fresh fruit for a satisfying brunch spread.
• Offer with pastries and coffee for a delightful morning meal.

With Dips

• Enjoy it with hummus or baba ganoush for a flavorful dip option.
• Pair with olives and feta cheese on a mezze platter.

How to Perfect Greek Spinach Pie Spanakopita

To achieve the best results when preparing Greek Spinach Pie Spanakopita, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and leeks yield more vibrant flavors compared to frozen alternatives.
• Thoroughly drain excess moisture: This prevents the pie from becoming soggy. Squeeze out water from the spinach mixture if necessary.
• Layer phyllo carefully: Brush each layer of phyllo dough with olive oil to ensure crispiness in the final pie.
• Score the top layer: Gently score the phyllo before baking to allow steam to escape, resulting in a flakier crust.
• Bake until golden: Keep an eye on the pie while baking; it should reach a beautiful golden brown color for optimal taste and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Greek Spinach Pie Spanakopita

Serving Greek Spinach Pie Spanakopita is made even better with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives dressed in olive oil adds brightness.
2. Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned potatoes roasted until crispy provide heartiness that pairs well with the pie.
3. Tzatziki Sauce: This yogurt-based sauce cools down the palate and adds creaminess when served alongside.
4. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas): These vine leaves stuffed with rice and herbs offer a traditional touch to your meal.
5. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: Packed with veggies and herbs, this salad enhances the dish’s Mediterranean essence.
6. Grilled Vegetables: A selection of seasonal vegetables grilled enhances both flavor and nutrition on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Greek Spinach Pie Spanakopita, it’s easy to encounter a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.

• Overfilling the pie: Adding too much filling can cause the phyllo dough to tear or leak during baking. Make sure to fill it just enough for a balanced layer.

• Not drying spinach properly: Excess moisture from the spinach can lead to a soggy pie. Always cook and drain the spinach well before mixing it with other ingredients.

• Skipping the olive oil: Phyllo dough needs lubrication to achieve that crispy texture. Brush each layer generously with olive oil; don’t skip this step!

• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Taste your filling before sealing the pie. If it lacks flavor, adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper as needed.

• Baking at incorrect temperatures: Ensure your oven is preheated to 190°C (375°F) for optimal results. Baking at a lower temperature can result in an undercooked filling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Greek Spinach Pie Spanakopita will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Greek Spinach Pie Spanakopita

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• The pie can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Greek Spinach Pie Spanakopita

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the slices on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking every 30 seconds until warm.

• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a little olive oil and warm each slice for about 5 minutes on each side until heated through and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Greek Spinach Pie Spanakopita?

Greek Spinach Pie Spanakopita is a traditional dish made with layers of crispy phyllo dough filled with seasoned spinach and feta cheese, creating a delicious savory pie.

Can I use frozen spinach for Spanakopita?

Yes, frozen spinach can be used as a substitute for fresh spinach. Just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding it to your filling mix.

How do I make my Spanakopita crispier?

To achieve a crispier texture, ensure that you brush each layer of phyllo dough generously with olive oil and score the top layer before baking.

Can I customize the filling for Greek Spinach Pie Spanakopita?

Absolutely! You can add herbs like dill or parsley, or even mix in other cheeses like ricotta or goat cheese for additional flavor.

How long does Greek Spinach Pie Spanakopita last?

In the refrigerator, it lasts about 3-4 days. If frozen properly, it can be kept for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Final Thoughts

Greek Spinach Pie Spanakopita is not only delightful but also versatile, allowing you to experiment with fillings and seasonings based on your preferences. Its flaky texture and savory taste make it perfect for any occasion, whether as an appetizer or main dish. Give this recipe a try, and feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients!