Homemade Spanakopita: Greek Spinach Pie
Introduction
Homemade Spanakopita, a traditional Greek dish, is a delectable spinach pie encased in flaky phyllo pastry. This savory pie is a perfect blend of spinach, feta cheese, herbs, and spices, all enveloped in crispy layers of pastry. Whether you’re a fan of Greek cuisine or looking to try something new and flavorful, mastering the art of making Spanakopita at home will surely impress your taste buds and loved ones.
Ingredients
To create a delicious Homemade Spanakopita, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh spinach
– 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 package phyllo pastry sheets (approximately 12 sheets)
– 1/2 cup melted butter for brushing the phyllo sheets
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened.
3. Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and let it cool.
4. Once cooled, squeeze out excess liquid from the spinach mixture using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the spinach mixture, crumbled feta cheese, chopped dill, parsley, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
6. Lay one sheet of phyllo pastry on a work surface and brush it lightly with melted butter. Repeat this process, stacking four more sheets on top, buttering each layer.
7. Spread half of the spinach filling evenly over the phyllo layers.
8. Layer five more phyllo sheets on top of the filling, brushing each sheet with melted butter.
9. Spread the remaining spinach mixture evenly over the phyllo layers.
10. Layer the remaining phyllo sheets on top, buttering each sheet.
11. Tuck any overhanging phyllo edges into the sides of the baking dish to create a neat edge.
12. Score the top of the Spanakopita with a sharp knife, cutting through the first few layers of phyllo.
13. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the Spanakopita is golden brown and crispy.
14. Allow it to cool slightly before cutting into squares or triangles to serve.
Enjoy your delicious Homemade Spanakopita warm or at room temperature as a delightful appetizer, snack, or even a main course. This flavorful Greek Spinach Pie is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
FAQs about Homemade Spanakopita: Greek Spinach Pie
What is Spanakopita?
Spanakopita is a traditional Greek savory pastry filled with a mixture of spinach, feta cheese, herbs, and seasonings, all encased in layers of crispy phyllo dough.
How do you make Homemade Spanakopita?
To make Homemade Spanakopita, you typically sauté spinach with onions and garlic, mix it with feta cheese, eggs, dill, and other seasonings. Then, the filling is layered between buttered phyllo sheets, baked until golden and crispy.
Can Spanakopita be frozen?
Yes, Spanakopita can be frozen either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the pie, freeze it, then bake it straight from the freezer. If freezing after baking, cool the cooked Spanakopita, then freeze in airtight containers.
What is the best way to serve Spanakopita?
Spanakopita can be served hot, warm, or at room temperature. It is often enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or even as a main dish alongside a fresh salad or some tzatziki sauce.
Can Spanakopita be made ahead of time?
Yes, Spanakopita can
