Description
Spanakopita is a traditional Greek savory pastry filled with spinach and feta cheese, wrapped in flaky phyllo dough. It’s a delicious and popular dish often served as an appetizer or a main course.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh spinach, tough stems removed
- 1/2 cup finely chopped yellow onion
- 1/4 cup olive oil, plus more for brushing
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 package (16 ounces) phyllo dough, thawed if frozen
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat 1/4 cup olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the spinach to the skillet in batches, stirring until wilted. Cook for another 5 minutes, then drain any excess liquid.
- Transfer the spinach mixture to a large bowl. Let it cool slightly.
- Add the crumbled feta cheese, chopped dill, chopped parsley, beaten eggs, salt, and pepper to the spinach mixture. Stir to combine thoroughly.
- Lightly brush a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil.
- Carefully unroll the phyllo dough. Keep the sheets covered with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out.
- Lay one sheet of phyllo dough in the baking dish, brushing it lightly with olive oil. Repeat with 7 more sheets, layering and brushing each one.
- Spread the spinach and feta filling evenly over the phyllo dough in the dish.
- Layer the remaining phyllo dough sheets on top of the filling, brushing each sheet with olive oil as you go. Tuck in the edges.
- Score the top layers of phyllo dough into desired portions (this makes cutting easier after baking).
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the spanakopita is golden brown and crispy.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before cutting and serving.
Notes
- Ensure your phyllo dough is completely thawed if using frozen.
- Don’t skip brushing each layer of phyllo with olive oil; this is crucial for crispiness.
- You can adjust the herbs and cheese to your preference.
- Spanakopita can be served warm or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish/Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek