Try the delicious Greek-inspired spinach pie, also known as spanakopita. This simple recipe uses a flaky phyllo dough crust. It’s filled with fresh spinach, feta cheese, and herbs.
This spinach pie is loved by all. It’s great as a main dish, side, or appetizer.
Key Takeaways
- Authentic Greek-inspired spinach pie recipe
- Flaky phyllo dough crust and savory spinach filling
- Versatile dish that can be served in multiple ways
- Simplified assembly process for home cooks
- Packed with healthy spinach and a blend of cheeses
Introduction to Greek-Inspired Spinach Pie
Spanakopita, a traditional Greek dish, is loved by families all over the world. This recipe is a simplified version of the classic. It keeps the authentic flavors but is easier to make at home.
Origins of Spanakopita
Spanakopita is a savory Greek pie. It’s made with flaky phyllo dough, fresh spinach, and creamy cheeses. This dish comes from the Mediterranean and has been a part of Greek cuisine for many years. It’s often served as a main course or side dish.
Why This Recipe is a Family Favorite
This traditional spanakopita recipe is a family favorite. It’s delicious and versatile. You can enjoy it as a casual dinner or a special dish for celebrations. The mix of crisp phyllo, tender spinach, and rich cheese is loved by many.
If you love Greek cuisine or want to try something new, this family recipe for spinach pie is perfect. It’s sure to become a favorite in your home.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Spinach Pie
Making the perfect spinach pie starts with picking the right ingredients. You’ll need frozen chopped spinach, creamy feta cheese, flaky phyllo dough, tangy cottage cheese, and fresh eggs. These ingredients come together to make a pie that’s full of flavor and texture.
To make the spinach filling, use a 10-ounce package of frozen chopped spinach. Add half a cup of crumbled feta cheese, a cup of cottage cheese, and two whole eggs. Don’t forget diced onions, minced garlic, a splash of balsamic vinegar, and a sprinkle of oregano and black pepper. For extra flavor, you can add ricotta cheese, sautéed mushrooms, or crispy bacon bits.
The base of this pie is a pound of phyllo dough. This dough makes the pie’s layers flaky and delicate. With the right techniques, it turns a simple dish into a masterpiece.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Frozen Chopped Spinach | 10 oz package |
| Feta Cheese | 1/2 cup |
| Phyllo Dough | 1 pound package |
| Cottage Cheese | 1 cup |
| Eggs | 2 whole |
| Olive Oil | 3-4 tablespoons |
| Onion | 1 small, diced |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced |
| Balsamic Vinegar | 1-2 tablespoons |
| Oregano | 1 teaspoon, dried |
| Black Pepper | 1 teaspoon, freshly cracked |
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a delicious spinach pie. It will impress your family and friends. Get ready to enjoy the flavors of Greece in every bite!
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make a delicious spinach pie, you need some key kitchen tools and equipment. Let’s look at the must-haves for a homemade spanakopita that’s perfect every time.
Baking Dish Specifications
The recipe asks for a 13x9x2-inch baking dish, which can be glass or metal. This size is great for the filling and flaky phyllo dough. A strong, oven-safe baking pan is important for baking the pie to golden perfection.
Additional Kitchen Essentials
- Mixing bowls: You’ll need several mixing bowls of different sizes for the spinach filling and pie layers.
- Sharp knife: A sharp knife is key for chopping the spinach, herbs, and other ingredients in the filling.
- Small sauté pan: A small pan is used to sauté the onions and garlic before adding them to the filling.
- Pastry brush: A pastry brush helps spread melted butter evenly between the phyllo dough layers for a crisp crust.
- Kitchen towels: Keeping the phyllo dough moist is important, so having kitchen towels handy helps prevent it from drying out.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for the perfect spinach pie filling and dough ratios.
With these essential baking pan, mixing bowls, and other kitchen utensils ready, you’re set to make a stunning homemade spinach pie. Your family and friends will love it.
Preparing the Phyllo Dough
Making a delicious spanakopita, the famous Greek spinach pie, needs skill with the phyllo dough. First, thaw the phyllo sheets as the package says, which takes about 25-30 minutes at room temperature. It’s important to handle these sheets carefully to avoid any damage.
After thawing, you might need to cut the sheets to fit your baking dish. This makes sure they fit perfectly and look great. Keep the unused sheets covered with a damp towel to keep them soft and pliable.
| Phyllo Dough Thawing Tips | Phyllo Dough Handling Techniques |
|---|---|
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Now that the phyllo dough is thawed and ready, you can start making the spanakopita filling. Remember, being careful and gentle is crucial when working with this delicate pastry.
The Perfect Spinach Filling Mixture
Making the ultimate spinach pie filling is about finding the right mix. You need fresh spinach, creamy cheeses, and tasty seasonings. Start by getting your spinach ready.
Proper Spinach Preparation
If you’re using frozen spinach, thaw it and squeeze out extra water. This is key to avoid a soggy filling. For fresh spinach, cook it in olive oil until it’s soft. Then, chop it into small pieces.
Cheese Blend Techniques
The cheese mix is the heart of the filling. It combines tangy feta, creamy cottage cheese, and rich cream cheese. Mix these until they blend well, making a tasty base.
Seasoning Tips
- Cook diced onions and minced garlic in olive oil for a great smell.
- Put the cooked veggies, fresh dill, salt, and pepper into the cheese mix.
- Make sure the spinach, cheese, and seasonings are spread evenly for a balanced taste.
By following these steps, you’ll make a spinach filling that’s full of flavor and texture. Your homemade spinach pie will be a hit.
Step-by-Step Spinach Pie Recipe
Making a homemade spinach pie is a fun cooking adventure. Follow these simple recipe instructions and assembly process to make a dish everyone will love.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
- Layer half of the phyllo sheets in the prepared baking dish, brushing each sheet with melted clarified butter as you go.
- Spread the spinach mixture evenly over the phyllo base.
- Top the spinach filling with the remaining phyllo sheets, again brushing each layer with clarified butter.
- Using a sharp knife, gently cut the pie into 12 equal portions before baking.
- Pour the remaining melted clarified butter over the entire surface of the pie.
- Bake the spinach pie for 40-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Allow the pie to cool for 10-15 minutes before serving.
By following these easy steps, you’ll make a tasty Greek-inspired spinach pie. It’s sure to impress your family and friends.
| Nutritional Information | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 295kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Protein | 15g |
| Fat | 21g |
| Saturated Fat | 12g |
| Cholesterol | 95mg |
| Sodium | 489mg |
| Potassium | 275mg |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 1g |
| Vitamin A | 6200IU |
| Vitamin C | 5mg |
| Calcium | 391mg |
| Iron | 1.9mg |
This recipe makes about 12 servings. You can prepare it ahead of time, adding 5 minutes to the baking time if it’s refrigerated first. It takes about 90 minutes to prepare and cook, and it’s rated 4.85 out of 5 based on 71 votes.
Working with Phyllo Dough: Tips and Tricks
Mastering phyllo dough is key to a flaky homemade spinach pie. It’s about preventing drying and using the right butter amount. These tips are essential.
Preventing Dough from Drying
Phyllo dough dries out fast. To keep it soft, thaw it slowly in the fridge for 8 hours. Then, let it sit at room temperature for an hour. Always cover it with a damp towel when not using.
Butter Application Methods
Brushing each layer with butter is traditional but slow. A quicker method is to stack the sheets in a dish and pour melted butter over them. This makes a flaky crust without extra work.
Butter is crucial. Too little makes the pastry dry, too much soggy. Use about 4 ounces (119g) for a 4- to 7-sheet pie.
Follow these tips to make a delicious spinach pie. Your family and friends will love it.
Cheese Selection and Combinations
The perfect spinach pie starts with the right cheese mix. This recipe uses a blend of feta cheese, cottage cheese, and ricotta cheese. Together, they offer a mix of tanginess, creaminess, and smoothness.
The feta cheese is the star, adding a tangy flavor that pairs well with spinach. Crumbling the feta yourself brings out more flavor. Mixing it with cottage cheese or ricotta cheese adds creaminess.
The recipe calls for 12 ounces of feta cheese and 10 ounces of cottage cheese or ricotta cheese. This mix keeps the filling balanced and not too heavy. Adding 3 beaten eggs makes the cheese blend smooth and cohesive.
“The key to a truly exceptional spinach pie is in the cheese selection. The perfect blend of tangy feta, creamy cottage, and smooth ricotta creates a flavor profile that will leave your taste buds dancing with delight.”
Choosing and mixing these cheeses takes your spinach pie to new heights. It becomes a Greek-inspired dish that will wow your guests and become a family favorite.
Herbs and Seasonings Guide
Herbs and seasonings are key to making your homemade spinach pie taste great. Whether you choose fresh or dried herbs, finding the right mix is crucial. This ensures your dish is delicious.
Fresh vs. Dried Herbs
Fresh dill is the top pick for its lively and fragrant taste. For this recipe, use about 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh dill. If you’re using dried dill, just 2 teaspoons will do. Fresh parsley is also a great substitute in the filling.
Seasoning Measurements
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
These seasoning ratios offer the perfect flavor mix. But, you can tweak them to match your taste. Adding a bit more seasoning can really enhance your spinach pie.
“The key to a flavorful spinach pie lies in the perfect blend of fresh and dried herbs, along with the right seasoning ratios.”
Baking Instructions and Temperature Guidelines
To make a delicious spinach pie, focus on getting the golden crust and tender filling right. Follow these easy steps to make your homemade spanakopita perfect every time.
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, get your baking dish ready. Carefully place the phyllo sheets with the spinach filling, avoiding any tears in the dough. Finally, brush the top with melted butter or olive oil for that crispy golden crust.
- Bake the pie for 40-50 minutes until the phyllo is golden and crisp.
- If the edges start to brown too fast, cover them with foil to stop overbrowning.
- Let the pie cool for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the filling set, making it easier to cut.
Getting the right baking time and golden crust is key. Keep the oven temperature at 375°F (190°C) for the best results. This ensures the phyllo gets crispy and the spinach filling stays tender.
“The secret to a delicious spinach pie is all in the baking. Get the temperature and time just right, and you’ll be rewarded with a flaky, golden-brown crust and a filling that’s full of flavor.”
Make-Ahead and Storage Options
Enjoy the convenience of meal prep with this delicious spinach pie recipe. You can make the pie a day early and chill it before baking. This makes mealtime stress-free. After baking, the freezer-friendly pie stays fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s perfect for leftovers all week.
Freezing Instructions
For longer storage, bake the pie and then freeze it for up to 2 months. Let the pie cool down completely. Then, wrap it well in plastic wrap and freeze it. To thaw, just keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to reheat.
Reheating Methods
- Refrigerated slices can be reheated in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-13 minutes.
- To reheat a frozen pie, thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking.
Whether you’re meal prepping, enjoying leftovers, or having a frozen treat, this spinach pie recipe is perfect. It offers delicious, easy meals anytime.
| Storage Method | Maximum Shelf Life |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3 days |
| Freezer | 2 months |
“The spinach pie recipe can be a real lifesaver for busy weeknights. Knowing I can make it ahead and have leftovers on hand is a game-changer.”
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
The classic Greek spinach pie, or spanakopita, is a hit. But, you can make it your own with vegetarian options and gluten-free alternatives. The choices are endless.
Try using creamy ricotta instead of cottage cheese for a richer taste. Add sautéed mushrooms or crispy bacon for extra flavor.
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free phyllo dough. It keeps the flaky texture but removes wheat. Mix in shredded Gruyère or Parmesan with the feta and ricotta for a unique taste.
Don’t like scallions? Use sautéed onions and garlic for a sweeter flavor. You can add your favorite ingredients to make it your own.
| Substitution | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Ricotta cheese instead of cottage cheese | Creamier, richer texture |
| Sautéed mushrooms or crumbled bacon | Added flavor and texture |
| Gluten-free phyllo dough | Gluten-free option |
| Gruyère or Parmesan cheese | Diverse cheese flavors |
| Sautéed onions and garlic instead of scallions | Sweeter, more mellow flavor |
These simple changes let you tailor the spinach pie to your taste. Get creative and enjoy trying new flavors!
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Spinach pie, or spanakopita, is a favorite in Mediterranean cuisine. It goes well with many side dishes and accompaniments. This savory pie, with its flaky phyllo dough and creamy spinach and feta filling, can be enjoyed in many ways.
For a full meal, try it with a fresh Greek salad. The salad has crisp romaine, juicy tomatoes, cool cucumber, sharp red onion, briny Kalamata olives, and tangy feta cheese. The salad’s bright flavors match the pie’s richness perfectly.
Another great choice is to pair it with roasted vegetables. Choose zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, and onions, and drizzle them with lemon-oregano vinaigrette. The roasted veggies’ warmth and earthiness contrast nicely with the pie’s flaky crust and creamy filling.
For a more filling meal, serve the spinach pie with grilled or roasted meats. Lamb chops or chicken souvlaki pair well with the pie’s savory flavors. This makes for a satisfying Mediterranean-inspired meal.
If you want to serve it as an appetizer, cut the pie into smaller pieces. Serve it with cool and creamy tzatziki sauce or tangy lemon-olive oil dressing for dipping.
Spinach pie is versatile and delicious, adding to any Mediterranean-inspired menu. It complements a wide range of side dishes, making for a memorable dining experience.
Nutritional Information and Benefits
This spinach pie is not just delicious but also super healthy. It’s full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Each bite gives you a boost of nutrition.
Health Benefits of Spinach
Spinach is the main ingredient and a nutritional powerhouse. It’s packed with vitamin K for strong bones and vitamin A for your eyes and immune system. It also has folate, iron, and magnesium, making it great for your diet.
Leeks and onions add to the pie’s health benefits. They’re full of flavonoids and sulfur-containing compounds. These help fight inflammation and boost your immune system. Plus, they’re good for your gut health.
Caloric Content and Macros
Each serving of this pie has about 234 calories. It has 17g of protein, 10.5g of saturated fat, and 6g of dietary fiber. It also has 23g of sugar from the veggies and cheese.
This pie is good for your heart, following the American Heart Association’s guidelines. It’s great for people with diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease. Always talk to a doctor about what’s best for you.
“This spinach pie offers a delightful way to incorporate nutrient-dense ingredients into your diet, providing a balance of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals.”
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Making the perfect spinach pie can be tricky. But with a few tips, you can get it right every time. Let’s look at some common problems and how to fix them.
Preventing a Soggy Bottom
A soggy bottom is a big problem with spinach pie. To avoid it, make sure to squeeze out all the moisture from the spinach. Also, don’t over-butter the phyllo dough, as too much butter can make the crust wet and heavy.
Keeping the Phyllo Dough Crisp
If your phyllo dough gets dry and brittle, it’s okay. Just mist it lightly with water before baking. This will keep it soft and crisp.
Achieving the Perfect Filling Consistency
For a filling with the right consistency, mix all ingredients well. Make sure the spinach, cheese, and seasonings are evenly distributed. This will help the filling stay together when you slice it.
If the pie browns too fast, cover it with foil. This stops the top from burning. Let the pie rest for 15 minutes before cutting. This helps the filling set and prevents it from spilling.
By fixing these common problems, you’ll make a delicious spinach pie. It will impress your family and friends. Remember, paying attention to detail and practicing will help you achieve perfection.
Conclusion
This easy homemade spinach pie recipe is a tasty, Greek-inspired dish great for family dinners or parties. It has a flaky phyllo crust and a creamy spinach-feta filling. You can adjust it to fit different tastes and diets.
It’s easy to make, making it perfect for all home cooks. Whether you want a taste of Greece or more spinach in your meals, this homemade spinach pie will be a hit. Its delicious flavor and simple steps make it a favorite for those who love family-friendly dishes.
So, get your ingredients ready, preheat the oven, and enjoy the savory taste of this homemade spinach pie. It’s sure to impress your loved ones and leave them wanting more.
FAQ
What is the inspiration behind this spinach pie recipe?
This spinach pie recipe is inspired by the traditional Greek dish, spanakopita. It has a flaky phyllo crust filled with spinach, feta cheese, and herbs.
Why has this recipe become a family favorite?
It’s easy to make and tastes great. It’s perfect for family dinners or special events.
What are the key ingredients in this spinach pie?
You’ll need frozen spinach, feta cheese, and phyllo dough. Also, cottage cheese, eggs, olive oil, onion, garlic, and herbs. You can add ricotta, mushrooms, or bacon bits too.
What essential equipment is needed to make this spinach pie?
You’ll need a 13x9x2-inch baking dish, mixing bowls, and a sharp knife. A small pan for sautéing is also needed. Don’t forget a pastry brush, kitchen towels, and measuring tools.
How do you properly handle and work with phyllo dough?
Thaw the phyllo dough as instructed. Handle it carefully to avoid tears. Keep unused sheets moist with a towel.
How do you prepare the spinach filling for the pie?
Thaw and drain the spinach well. Mix feta, cottage cheese, and cream cheese. Add eggs, scallions, spinach, salt, pepper, and fresh dill. Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil first.
What is the recommended baking temperature and time for this spinach pie?
Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 40-50 minutes until golden and crisp.
Can this spinach pie be made ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it a day before and refrigerate. Baked pie can be refrigerated for 3 days or frozen for 2 months.
What are some variations and substitutions for this recipe?
Try ricotta instead of cottage cheese. Add mushrooms or cooked bacon. Use gluten-free phyllo. Replace scallions with sautéed onions and garlic. Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or Parmesan.
How do I prevent a soggy bottom on the spinach pie?
Drain the spinach well and avoid over-buttering. If phyllo dries out, mist with water. Let the pie rest before cutting to avoid spills.
