Spanakopita (Greek Spinach Pie)

Spanakopita, a classic Greek dish, combines the delicate layers of golden, flaky phyllo dough with a rich, savory spinach and feta cheese filling. Its perfect balance of flavors and textures makes it a favorite in Mediterranean cuisine. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer, side dish, or main course, Spanakopita never fails to impress with its rich taste and satisfying crunch.

The beauty of Spanakopita lies in its simplicity. The fresh spinach is sautéed to bring out its natural sweetness, while the feta cheese adds a tangy richness. The phyllo dough creates a crisp, buttery crust that contrasts perfectly with the soft, flavorful filling. It’s a versatile dish that can be served at a family gathering, a holiday meal, or simply as a comforting dinner.

Full Recipe:

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 large onion, chopped
2 green onions, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced

2 pounds fresh spinach, rinsed and chopped
1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 large eggs, lightly beaten

1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup crumbled feta cheese
8 sheets phyllo dough

1/4 cup olive oil for brushing

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, green onions, and garlic. Cook until onions are soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the spinach and parsley to the skillet, and continue to cook until the spinach is wilted, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool.
In a medium bowl, mix together the eggs, ricotta, and feta. Stir the cooled spinach mixture into the egg mixture.

Lightly oil a 9×9 inch baking dish. Lay one sheet of phyllo dough in the dish and lightly brush with olive oil. Repeat with three more sheets of phyllo, brushing each with olive oil.
Spread the spinach and cheese mixture evenly over the layered phyllo. Fold the overhanging dough over the filling and brush with oil. Layer the remaining four sheets of phyllo on top, brushing each with oil.
Bake in preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. Cut into squares and serve hot.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Kcal: 280 kcal per serving | Servings: 6

Spanakopita, also known as Greek Spinach Pie, is a beloved dish in Greek cuisine that is both flavorful and versatile. It features layers of crispy, flaky phyllo dough filled with a savory mixture of spinach, feta cheese, and sometimes additional herbs such as parsley and dill. This dish is commonly served as a main course for vegetarians or as a side dish in larger meals, especially during festive occasions and holidays.

Key Elements of Spanakopita:

Phyllo Dough: The thin, delicate layers of phyllo dough are essential for the light, crispy texture of Spanakopita. Each sheet is brushed with olive oil (or butter) to create a flaky, golden-brown crust during baking.

Spinach: Fresh spinach is sautéed with onions, garlic, and sometimes green onions, which brings out its natural sweetness. You can also use frozen spinach, which is a time-saving alternative and works well in this recipe.
Feta Cheese: Feta is the star of the filling, providing a tangy, salty contrast to the mild spinach. Sometimes ricotta cheese is added to give the filling a creamier texture.
Herbs and Seasoning: Fresh parsley, dill, and a pinch of nutmeg or black pepper are often added to enhance the flavor profile of the dish.

How It’s Made:

Spanakopita is surprisingly easy to make. The process begins by preparing the spinach filling, which is combined with sautéed onions, garlic, feta cheese, and eggs for binding. Once the filling is ready, it is layered between sheets of phyllo dough, each one brushed with olive oil or butter. The top is covered with additional phyllo sheets, and the entire dish is baked until the dough becomes crispy and golden brown.

Variations of Spanakopita:

Spanakopita can be made as a large pie in a baking dish or as individual hand pies called “Spanakopitakia.” Some cooks add other ingredients like leeks, artichokes, or even a handful of fresh herbs such as mint or basil for a twist. The dish is highly versatile and can be adapted based on the ingredients you have available.

Pairing Suggestions:

Spanakopita pairs wonderfully with a simple Greek salad of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and a drizzle of olive oil. It also goes well with tzatziki (a yogurt and cucumber dip) or a side of roasted vegetables. For a full Mediterranean meal experience, you could serve Spanakopita alongside dishes like roasted lamb or souvlaki (grilled skewers of meat).

Cultural Significance:

Spanakopita has deep roots in Greek culture and is often enjoyed during religious feasts and special gatherings. It’s commonly found in bakeries and homes across Greece and is recognized as a symbol of Greek hospitality and culinary heritage. The dish is particularly popular during Lent or other fasting periods when meat is avoided, making it a go-to vegetarian option.

Historical Background of Spanakopita:

Spanakopita has its origins in Greek culinary traditions, dating back centuries. While the exact origin is hard to pinpoint, it is believed that phyllo-based dishes were influenced by the Ottoman Empire, which ruled Greece for over 400 years. Phyllo dough, known for its thin and delicate layers, became a hallmark of Greek cuisine and was used in both savory and sweet dishes.

Over time, Spanakopita emerged as a staple in the Mediterranean diet, becoming a household favorite due to its simplicity, versatility, and the wide availability of fresh spinach and feta cheese in the region. Today, it is a dish that symbolizes Greek culture and is enjoyed at homes, bakeries, and restaurants worldwide.

Nutritional and Health Benefits of Spanakopita:

Spanakopita is not only delicious but also offers several health benefits, making it a great addition to a balanced diet. Here are some of the reasons why Spanakopita can be a healthier choice:

Spinach is a superfood, rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron, folate, and calcium. It’s also loaded with antioxidants that support overall health and boost the immune system.
Feta Cheese is lower in calories than many other cheeses and offers a good source of calcium and protein. Feta is also a source of probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health.

Phyllo Dough, although used in layers, is lighter and lower in fat compared to many pie crusts or pastry doughs. When brushed with olive oil instead of butter, the dish becomes a healthier option, keeping the Mediterranean diet’s heart-healthy reputation intact.
Olive Oil, often used to brush the phyllo dough, is a key component of the Mediterranean diet. It’s rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, promoting heart health.

Cooking Tips for the Perfect Spanakopita:

To ensure your Spanakopita turns out perfectly every time, here are some key tips to follow:

Work Quickly with Phyllo Dough: Phyllo dough dries out very fast, so it’s important to keep it covered with a damp towel while you’re working with it. Brush each layer generously with olive oil or melted butter to ensure it bakes up crispy and golden.
Don’t Overfill the Pie: Too much filling can make the phyllo layers soggy. Make sure the filling is well-drained and cool before layering it in the pie. You can use fresh or frozen spinach, but if using frozen, be sure to squeeze out any excess water after thawing.
Make It Your Own: Spanakopita is highly customizable. Some variations include adding leeks, fresh dill, mint, or even small amounts of artichoke hearts. Some prefer adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the filling for a unique touch.

Use High-Quality Feta Cheese: Authentic Greek feta made from sheep’s milk gives Spanakopita its distinct tangy flavor. You can also use a combination of feta and ricotta if you prefer a creamier texture.
Serve It Fresh and Hot: Spanakopita is best enjoyed fresh from the oven when the phyllo layers are crispy. However, it can also be served at room temperature, making it a great dish for picnics or buffets.

Variations and Popular Alternatives:

Spanakopita is a versatile dish that comes in many shapes and forms:

Triangular Hand Pies (Spanakopitakia): These small, triangular versions of Spanakopita are great as appetizers or snacks. They are made by cutting the phyllo dough into strips, placing a small amount of filling on one end, and folding it into a triangle.
Vegan Spanakopita: To make Spanakopita vegan, you can substitute the feta and ricotta cheese with plant-based alternatives. Nutritional yeast can be added for a cheesy flavor, and tofu can be used as a filling binder instead of eggs.
Spinach and Cheese Phyllo Roll: Instead of layering the phyllo sheets in a pan, the spinach and cheese filling can be rolled up in phyllo dough like a log and sliced into rounds for serving.

Individual Muffin-Size Spanakopita: You can bake Spanakopita in a muffin tin for individual servings. This is a perfect option for parties or on-the-go snacks.

Spanakopita in Greek Culture:

In Greece, Spanakopita is more than just a meal – it’s a connection to tradition. It’s often served at festive occasions such as Easter, family reunions, and name day celebrations. Greek Orthodox fasting periods, where meat and dairy are avoided, also make Spanakopita a popular dish, especially with variations that omit the cheese and use more herbs.

In many Greek homes, Spanakopita is a cherished recipe passed down through generations, with each family adding its own unique twist. Whether as a side dish for a large gathering or a quick weeknight meal, Spanakopita holds a special place in Greek households.

Pairing Ideas and Serving Suggestions:

While Spanakopita is often served on its own as a main or side dish, here are a few pairing ideas:

Greek Salad: A fresh Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and Kalamata olives is the perfect complement to Spanakopita.
Tzatziki: A side of cool, creamy tzatziki (yogurt-cucumber dip) provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory pie.

Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers can create a hearty Mediterranean platter.
Rice Pilaf: For a more substantial meal, Spanakopita pairs beautifully with a simple rice pilaf flavored with lemon and herbs.

Fun Facts About Spanakopita:

World-Wide Popularity: Although traditionally Greek, Spanakopita has become a popular dish in many countries, often sold in bakeries, cafes, and supermarkets around the world.

Etymology: The word “Spanakopita” comes from the Greek words “spanáki” (meaning spinach) and “pita” (meaning pie).
Street Food Staple: In Greece, you’ll find Spanakopita served as a popular street food, sold in small bakeries called “fourno” around every corner, especially in Athens.

Conclusion:

Spanakopita is a delicious and versatile Greek spinach pie that showcases the best of Mediterranean cuisine. Its crispy layers of phyllo dough paired with a savory spinach and feta filling make it a crowd-pleaser at any meal. Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or main course, Spanakopita is easy to prepare and offers endless variations to suit different tastes. With its rich cultural heritage and health benefits, this beloved dish is a must-try for anyone looking to experience authentic Greek flavors.