Spinach and Feta Pie

Oh, let me tell you about spanakopita! It’s this, like, amazing Greek spinach pie that just brings back such cozy memories of family gatherings. Picture this: crispy, flaky layers of phyllo dough, all wrapped around this savory filling made from fresh spinach and creamy feta cheese. The smell wafting through the kitchen is… well, it’s just heavenly. Seriously, every bite is like a delicious hug, whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a sunny picnic in the park.

Why You’ll Crave It

• The crunch of the phyllo, oh my goodness, it’s just so satisfying.
• Super flavorful filling—fresh herbs and feta make it so fresh and zesty.
• Perfect as a main dish or a nifty appetizer, you really can’t go wrong.
• It’s a hit at any gathering, everyone’s always asking for the recipe.
• And let’s be real, it’s just a beautiful dish to serve and share.

You know, the first time I made this with my mom, we spent the whole afternoon chatting and laughing in the kitchen, and that’s a memory I just hold dear.

What You’ll Need

• Fresh Spinach: 500g, rinsed and drained, or you can go for 300g of frozen, just make sure it’s thawed and well-drained.
• Feta Cheese: 200g, crumbled—nothing compares to that creamy, tangy goodness!
• Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped to add that lovely sweetness.
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced; it just makes everything better, doesn’t it?
• Dill: 2 tablespoons, chopped; fresh herbs do wonders here.
• Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped for a bit of brightness.
• Egg: 1, beaten—this helps hold everything together.
• Olive Oil: 4 tablespoons, because it’s just essential for flavoring everything.
• Phyllo Pastry: 200g, thawed, and don’t forget about it drying out!
• Salt and Pepper: to taste, of course; season it to your liking!

Easy How-To

Getting Started with the Spinach

First things first—preheat that oven to 190°C (375°F). Then, let’s rinse that spinach under cold water, and really, really drain it well… you don’t want excess moisture making your pie soggy, right? Grab a medium pan, pour in some olive oil, and cook those chopped onions and minced garlic until they’re soft, just a few minutes will do. Then add the spinach and let it wilt—that’ll take about 2-3 minutes. Give it a little stir and then take it off the heat… let it cool down a bit before mixing it with everything else.

Good to Know

• If you’re feeling adventurous, you can totally mix in some sautéed mushrooms or different cheeses for a twist!
• Keeping your phyllo covered with a damp towel while you work is key—trust me, you’ll thank me later!
• And, oh! If you find yourself with leftovers (which, let’s be honest, is rare), they store well for up to three days in the fridge.

Serving Ideas

• Serve it warm, or at room temperature, alongside a dollop of tzatziki or a fresh side salad… it’s just so delightful.

Top Tricks

• Don’t skip scoring the top of your pie before baking; it helps with portioning later, and… just trust me on this, it makes it look pretty!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach?

Absolutely! Just make sure it’s thawed and thoroughly drained. You don’t want any water making your filling soggy.

How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers are good in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days… but good luck with that, it tends to disappear!

Can I make spanakopita ahead of time?

For sure! You can prepare the filling and assemble it beforehand and even freeze it unbaked. Just pop it in the oven frozen, but add a few extra minutes on the cooking time. It’s a lifesaver when you’re short on time.

What can I serve with spanakopita?

It pairs so well with a fresh Greek salad or a tangy tzatziki sauce—super refreshing!

Is spanakopita vegetarian?

Yes! It’s typically vegetarian, with mostly spinach, herbs, and feta wrapped in that gorgeous phyllo pastry.

Conclusion

Ah, spanakopita… it’s more than just a dish; it’s a tradition, a memory, and a delicious experience that brings everyone together. The flaky layers, the savory filling—every bite is a taste of Greece you can bring right to your table. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or just treating yourself to something special, it’s truly a recipe that warms the heart. So go ahead, try making it and see how amazing it feels to enjoy something homemade, from the heart.

More Recipe Suggestions and Combinations

Tarator (Turkish Yogurt Dip)

Pair your spanakopita with a refreshing tarator dip, made with garlic and walnuts—seriously, it’s like a match made in heaven.

Greek Salad

A bright Greek salad with fresh veggies balances out the richness of the pie beautifully… simple and delicious!

Moussaka

For something hearty, serve up some moussaka alongside the pie; the layers of eggplant and meat create such a lovely complement.

Dolmades (Stuffed Grape Leaves)

These stuffed grape leaves add a different twist—perfect to share on a platter with spanakopita.

Tzatziki Sauce

Tzatziki is a must! The cool, creamy sauce contrasts so nicely with that warm, flaky pie—it’s simply the best.

Baklava

And don’t forget about baklava for dessert… sweet layers of nutty goodness and honey are just the perfect finish to your Greek-inspired meal!