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Spanakopita (Greek Spinach Pie)

Spanakopita (Greek Spinach Pie)

Spanakopita is a traditional Greek dish made with flaky phyllo pastry filled with a savory mixture of spinach, feta cheese, and herbs. It's a delightful entrée that can be served warm or at room temperature.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Entrée
Cuisine Greek
Servings 4 People
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 large mixing bowl
  • 1 skillet
  • 1 whisk
  • 1 baking dish (9x13 inches or similar)
  • 1 pastry brush
  • 1 parchment paper (optional)
  • 1 cutting board

Ingredients
  

  • 16 oz frozen chopped spinach Thawed and drained.
  • 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 small onion Finely chopped.
  • 2 cloves garlic Minced.
  • ¼ cup fresh dill Chopped (or 2 tablespoons dried dill).
  • 1 large egg Lightly beaten.
  • to taste salt
  • to taste pepper
  • 16 oz phyllo dough Thawed.
  • ½ cup unsalted butter Melted.
  • olive oil For drizzling.

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained spinach, feta, ricotta, sautéed onion and garlic, dill, and the beaten egg. Season with salt and pepper. Mix well until fully incorporated.
  • Lay out the phyllo dough on a clean, dry surface. Keep the unused phyllo covered with a damp kitchen towel to prevent drying out.
  • Brush the bottom of your baking dish with melted butter. Take one sheet of phyllo dough and lay it in the dish, letting the edges hang over the sides. Brush the sheet lightly with melted butter.
  • Repeat this process with 6-8 more sheets, brushing each layer with butter. Ensure the layers are overlapping and lightly buttered.
  • Spread the spinach filling evenly over the phyllo layers.
  • Fold the overhanging edges of the phyllo over the filling. Carefully layer additional sheets of phyllo on top of the filling (around 5 sheets), buttering each one as you go.
  • Using a sharp knife, cut the top layers of phyllo into squares or diamonds (this will make it easier to serve after baking).
  • Brush the top layer generously with more melted butter and sprinkle with a bit of salt.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crisp.
  • Once done, allow it to cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Notes

Serve warm or at room temperature.
Spanakopita can be prepared ahead of time and frozen before baking.
Consider adding other herbs such as parsley or green onions for an added flavor dimension.
Pair with a light salad or tzatziki for a complete meal.