Spanakopita Recipe with Classic Greek Spinach and Feta Filling

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Why You’ll Love This Greek Spinach Feta Pie

This Greek spinach feta pie, also known as spanakopita, is a tasty dish that brings a bit of Mediterranean magic to your厨房. It’s super simple to whip up, even if you’re just starting out in the kitchen, and it packs a punch of flavor that keeps everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re craving something hearty for dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe fits the bill perfectly.

One reason you’ll adore this pie is its ease of preparation. This Greek spinach feta pie recipe is delightfully straightforward, requiring minimal ingredients and simple steps. With a quick cooking time, even beginners can enjoy making this savory dish without hassle, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals. Plus, the health benefits shine through, as it’s packed with nutrient-rich spinach and calcium-loaded feta cheese that supports bone health and provides antioxidants.

This pie’s versatility is another win. The recipe easily adapts to various dietary needs, like going vegan or gluten-free with a few tweaks, without losing that authentic taste. The distinctive flavor comes from the tangy feta, fresh spinach, and fragrant herbs, creating a unique Mediterranean flair that makes every bite feel special. If you haven’t tried this easy spinach pie yet, trust me, it’s a simple way to bring a taste of Greece into your family dinner!

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Essential Ingredients for Greek Spinach Feta Pie

Putting together this Greek spinach feta pie starts with gathering the right ingredients. These items create the filling and crust that make the dish so irresistible. Let’s break it down so you can shop smart and get cooking without any confusion.

For the Filling

  • 16 oz (about 455 g) of frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
  • 2 bunches of flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
  • 4 eggs
  • 10.5 oz (approximately 300 g) of crumbled feta cheese
  • 2 teaspoons of dried dill weed
  • freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Crust

  • 1 package (16 oz or 450 g) of phyllo pastry sheets, properly thawed
  • 1 cup (240 ml) of extra virgin olive oil, plus more if needed

This structured list ensures you have everything measured out just right for a perfect pie. For special options, you can swap in vegan feta or gluten-free pastry if needed, keeping things flexible for your kitchen adventures.

How to Prepare the Perfect Greek Spinach Feta Pie: Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to dive into making your own Greek spinach feta pie? Follow this straightforward guide to turn simple ingredients into a crispy, flavorful treat. Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C) and gathering all your tools for a smooth process. Remember, the key is in the details, like draining that spinach well to avoid a soggy result.

First, squeeze excess liquid from the thawed spinach to keep the filling from getting watery. Then, combine it in a bowl with the parsley, onion, garlic, olive oil, eggs, feta, dill, and pepper. Unroll the phyllo sheets and keep them covered with slightly damp cloths to prevent drying it’s a tip that makes all the difference.

Next, brush a 9.5″ x 13″ (24 x 33 cm) baking dish with olive oil. Layer two sheets of phyllo in the dish, letting the edges hang over, and brush each layer with olive oil. Continue layering until two-thirds of the phyllo is used. Spread the filling evenly over the phyllo layers, then add the remaining phyllo sheets two at a time, brushing each with olive oil.

Finish by brushing the top layer with olive oil and sprinkling it lightly with water. Fold the excess dough over the edges, brush it with more olive oil, and cut halfway into squares before baking. Pop it in the oven and bake for 1 hour until it’s golden and crispy. Once done, cut fully into squares and serve warm total prep time is about 20 minutes plus 1 hour baking. For a refreshing twist, pair it with a spinach-based drink from our site.

Spanakopita Recipe With Classic Greek Spinach And Feta Filling 9

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Greek Spinach Feta Pie

Making this Greek spinach feta pie your own is easy with a few smart swaps. Whether you’re dealing with allergies or just want to mix things up, these changes keep the pie delicious and adaptable. For example, using quality feta ensures that authentic flavor shines through no matter what.

Protein and main component alternatives include replacing feta with tofu for a vegan option or using gluten-free pastry sheets. Vegetable and seasoning modifications, like adding fresh herbs or swapping spinach for other greens, let you experiment while maintaining the pie’s hearty vibe. These tweaks make the recipe accessible for everyone, from busy parents to diet-conscious folks, without losing that Mediterranean charm.

Mastering Greek Spinach Feta Pie: Advanced Tips and Variations

Once you’re comfortable with the basics, take your Greek spinach feta pie to the next level with these pro tips. For instance, thawing phyllo in the fridge for 12 to 14 hours keeps it from tearing, and brushing each layer with olive oil ensures a crispy finish that’s lighter than using butter.

TechniqueTips
Pro CookingSqueeze moisture from spinach and layer phyllo carefully for a perfect crust.
Flavor IdeasAdd nutmeg or caramelized onions for a twist, or try different cheeses.
PresentationGarnish with herbs and serve with yogurt for a fresh look.
Make-AheadAssemble ahead and refrigerate, or freeze for up to 2-3 days of storage.

These strategies, like assembling the pie a day ahead, make it convenient for party hosts. Remember, leftovers keep well refrigerated for 2 to 3 days and can be reheated or frozen, adding to the pie’s everyday appeal.

How to Store Greek Spinach Feta Pie: Best Practices

Keeping your Greek spinach feta pie fresh is key to enjoying it later. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to lock in that crispy texture. For longer storage, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months it’s a great meal prep hack.

To reheat, use the oven at 180°C (356°F) for 10-15 minutes to bring back the crunch. This method works well for busy professionals grabbing a quick meal, ensuring every bite stays as good as the first. With these steps, your pie remains safe and tasty for multiple servings.

Greek Spinach Feta Pie
Spanakopita Recipe With Classic Greek Spinach And Feta Filling 10

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Greek Spinach Feta Pie

What ingredients do I need to make a traditional Greek spinach feta pie?

A traditional Greek spinach feta pie, or spanakopita, mainly requires fresh or frozen spinach, crumbled feta cheese, onions, garlic, fresh herbs like parsley and dill, eggs for binding, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Use quality feta for authentic flavor. Phyllo dough sheets are used to create the flaky crust that wraps around the filling.

Should I cook the spinach before making spanakopita filling?

If using frozen spinach, fully thaw and drain it thoroughly to remove excess moisture—no need to cook it beforehand. For fresh spinach, sauté it with onions and garlic until wilted, then drain and let it cool before mixing with other filling ingredients. Properly removing moisture helps keep the filling from becoming soggy.

Can I prepare the spinach feta pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the spinach feta pie in advance without baking. After layering the filling in the phyllo dough, cover it tightly and refrigerate overnight. When ready to serve, bake according to recipe instructions, usually about 45-60 minutes, until the crust is golden and crisp.

How should I store leftover spanakopita, and how long will it keep?

Store cooked spanakopita leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in a medium-temperature oven until heated through to maintain crispness. You may also freeze portions of cooked pie wrapped tightly in foil and plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven.

Can I make a dairy-free or vegan version of Greek spinach feta pie?

Yes, a dairy-free or vegan spanakopita can be made by substituting feta cheese with plant-based alternatives such as crumbled tofu or seasoned white beans. Use olive oil or vegan butter instead of dairy butter, and replace eggs with flaxseed meal or silken tofu to bind the filling. This provides a flavorful option that stays true to the spirit of the dish.

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Greek Spinach Feta Pie

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🥬 This Spanakopita recipe showcases a classic Greek filling of spinach, feta, and herbs for a flavorful and nutritious meal.
🥧 With its crispy phyllo crust, this savory pie is perfect for entertaining or a satisfying family dinner.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 8-10 servings

Ingredients

– 16 oz (about 455 g) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained

– 2 bunches flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped

– 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped

– 2 garlic cloves, minced

– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

– 4 eggs

– 10.5 oz (approximately 300 g) crumbled feta cheese

– 2 teaspoons dried dill weed

– freshly ground black pepper, to taste

– 1 package (16 oz or 450 g) phyllo pastry sheets, properly thawed

– 1 cup (240 ml) extra virgin olive oil, plus more if needed

Instructions

1-Ready to dive into making your own Greek spinach feta pie? Follow this straightforward guide to turn simple ingredients into a crispy, flavorful treat. Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C) and gathering all your tools for a smooth process. Remember, the key is in the details, like draining that spinach well to avoid a soggy result.

2-First, squeeze excess liquid from the thawed spinach to keep the filling from getting watery. Then, combine it in a bowl with the parsley, onion, garlic, olive oil, eggs, feta, dill, and pepper. Unroll the phyllo sheets and keep them covered with slightly damp cloths to prevent drying it’s a tip that makes all the difference.

3-Next, brush a 9.5” x 13” (24 x 33 cm) baking dish with olive oil. Layer two sheets of phyllo in the dish, letting the edges hang over, and brush each layer with olive oil. Continue layering until two-thirds of the phyllo is used. Spread the filling evenly over the phyllo layers, then add the remaining phyllo sheets two at a time, brushing each with olive oil.

4-Finish by brushing the top layer with olive oil and sprinkling it lightly with water. Fold the excess dough over the edges, brush it with more olive oil, and cut halfway into squares before baking. Pop it in the oven and bake for 1 hour until it’s golden and crispy. Once done, cut fully into squares and serve warm total prep time is about 20 minutes plus 1 hour baking. For a refreshing twist, pair it with a spinach-based drink from our site.

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Notes

🧀 Use high-quality feta cheese for authentic flavor.
💧 Ensure frozen spinach is thoroughly drained to prevent soggy filling.
🧈 Brush each phyllo layer with olive oil to keep crust crispy; avoid butter for lighter texture.

  • Author: Brandi Oshea
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Baking time: 1 hour
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Greek
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice

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