Spanakopita, the beloved Greek traditional spinach pie, has earned its place in the hearts and kitchens of food enthusiasts worldwide. This authentic spanakopita recipe boasts popularity for a multitude of compelling reasons.
One of the standout features of spanakopita is its simplicity. Crafting this delectable dish requires no advanced culinary skills. You merely layer the ingredients between sheets of delicate phyllo dough, making it accessible to both novice and experienced cooks.
Spanakopita is your go-to option when hosting gatherings or events, especially when planning ahead is a necessity. The beauty of this dish is that it can be served either warm or cold, offering convenience for busy hosts. The ability to prepare it in advance and serve it cold without compromising on flavor makes it a practical choice for accommodating a multitude of guests.
Health-conscious individuals have another reason to celebrate spanakopita. It stars spinach as its key ingredient, a nutritional powerhouse packed with vitamins and minerals. This inclusion elevates the dish to a new level of wholesome goodness, making it a favorite among those seeking both taste and nutrition.
To create spanakopita, gather the following essential ingredients: spinach, onion, leek, an assortment of green vegetables, eggs, pepper, and the delicate embrace of phyllo dough. The versatility of spanakopita extends to its serving options. Pair it with a variety of foods and flavors to discover your perfect combination. One delightful suggestion is to enjoy it with a classic Greek salad and a glass of wine, creating a symphony of Mediterranean flavors.
This spanakopita recipe generously serves approximately 8 individuals, making it an excellent choice for gatherings and celebrations. Additionally, it's a vegan-friendly option for those with dietary preferences. The preparation and cooking time totals less than two hours, ensuring you can relish this timeless Greek spinach pie without extensive effort. Dive into the world of spanakopita, where simplicity meets sophistication, and tradition marries innovation, delivering an unforgettable culinary experience.
Spanakopita – Ingredients
- Extra-virgin Greek olive oil
- 1 medium onion finely chopped.
- 1 large leek finely chopped.
- 500 g of various greens, such as chard, washed, stems removed, and leaves coarsely chopped.
- 500 g of spinach, washed, stems removed, and leaves coarsely chopped.
- 3 large eggs
- Pepper
- 225 g of phyllo dough
Spanakopita - How to Make
- Start this traditional spanakopita recipe by taking a large frying pan and adding some olive oil. Place it over medium-high heat.
- Add the onion and leek and cook until they get a golden color.
- Add the greens and spinach. Cover the pan with a lid and wilt.
- Add a bit of water if the pan becomes dry.
- Remove the pan from the heat and drain to remove any excess liquid.
- Transfer the greens to a bowl.
- Now add the eggs, and pepper to the spinach mixture and mix. Taste and season, if needed.
- Preheat the oven to 180°C.
- Take a baking pan (ideally 33-by-23-centimeter) and brush it with some olive oil.
- Start the spanakopita by laying a phyllo sheet on all four sides of the baking dish.
- Each sheet should partially cover the bottom of the dish, with the rest hanging over the edge.
- Brush every piece of phyllo that you lay on the dish with oil.
- Place five sheets in the center, brushing each phyllo dough with oil. Add the spinach filling and spread it out evenly.
- Place five more sheets of phyllo over the filling, brushing each with oil, then fold over the overhanging sheets that you started with.
- Cut any excess phyllo away with a sharp knife and use your pastry brush to tuck the phyllo in around the edges of the dish.
- Score the top with a sharp knife, marking the pieces you wish to cut later. Sprinkle with a little water.
- Bake in the oven for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until the phyllo is golden brown.
- Allow the spanakopita to cool down before serving.