Indulge in the delectable flavors of Spanakopita, a savory Greek pastry filled with a delightful combination of spinach, feta cheese, and aromatic herbs. This warm and conversational dish captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine with its flaky layers and a burst of vibrant greens. The unique qualities of Spanakopita lie in the delicate balance of textures, where the crispy phyllo dough meets the creamy filling, creating a satisfying and mouthwatering experience. Let’s get cooking!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 12 pieces 1x
Ingredients
- 1 package (10 oz) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 sheets of phyllo dough, thawed
- 1/2 cup melted butter or olive oil for brushing
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained spinach, crumbled feta cheese, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh dill, parsley, ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create the flavorful filling.
- Lay one sheet of phyllo dough on a clean surface and brush it lightly with melted butter or olive oil. Place another sheet on top and repeat the process until you have four layers.
- Spoon a generous amount of the spinach and cheese filling along one edge of the layered phyllo dough.
- Carefully fold the edges of the dough over the filling and then roll it up to form a log shape. Repeat this process with the remaining phyllo sheets and filling.
- Place the rolled spanakopita on the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops with more melted butter or olive oil for a golden finish.
- Bake the spanakopita in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry turns crispy and golden brown.
- Once baked, let the spanakopita cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Notes
Ensure the frozen spinach is thoroughly drained to prevent the Spanakopita from becoming soggy. Feel free to experiment with additional herbs such as mint or oregano to add more depth of flavor to the filling. Serve Spanakopita warm as a delightful appetizer or alongside a fresh Greek salad for a light and wholesome meal. This dish pairs beautifully with a glass of crisp white wine or a refreshing glass of lemonade for a Mediterranean-inspired feast. Store any leftover Spanakopita in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat it in the oven for a few minutes to enjoy the crispy texture again. Enjoy!
*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 340mg
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
