Spinach pie

Spanakopita: A Greek Pie with Spinach and Feta Cheese

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 8 servings

Spanakopita, a delicious pie, is a recipe that combines the fresh taste of spinach with the creamy texture of feta cheese and the crunchiness of phyllo pastry. This recipe is not only an excellent choice for lunch or dinner but also a savory option for any party or event. Additionally, it is a simple and quick recipe, perfect for cooking enthusiasts who want to bring a touch of tradition to their table.

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 package of phyllo pastry (400 g)
- 1 kg of fresh spinach leaves (about 2 kg of whole spinach)
- 1 small leek
- 1 large onion
- 400 g of sheep feta cheese
- 3 eggs
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
- A bunch of fresh dill
- 60 g of butter
- 50 ml of virgin olive oil

Step by step:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the spinach leaves under cold water to remove any impurities. After washing, let them drain for a few minutes, then chop them finely. This step is essential to ensure that the spinach will integrate perfectly into the filling.

2. Sauté the vegetables: In a pan, add two tablespoons of olive oil and sauté the sliced leek along with the finely chopped onion. Add the salt, which will help extract the juices from the vegetables and make them more flavorful. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and soft, about 5-7 minutes.

3. Preparing the filling: In a large bowl, beat the 3 eggs and add the grated feta cheese, chopped dill, and freshly ground pepper. Mix all the ingredients well. Now add the spinach and the sautéed vegetables, ensuring the mixture is homogeneous.

4. Preparing the baking tray: Preheat the oven to 180°C. In a tray measuring 30x40 cm, grease the bottom with a mixture of melted butter and olive oil. This combination will add flavor and help achieve a crispy crust.

5. Assembling the spanakopita: Place 6 sheets of phyllo pastry in the tray, each brushed with the butter and olive oil mixture. Ensure the sheets overlap to evenly cover the base. Add the spinach filling and level it well. Then cover with the remaining 6 sheets of phyllo pastry, brushed the same way as before. The last sheet can be brushed only with olive oil for a lighter texture.

6. Preparing for baking: Before placing the pie in the oven, cut it into rectangular or square portions with a sharp knife. This step is important as it will facilitate portioning after baking.

7. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes or until the pie becomes golden and crispy on top. The aroma that will fill your kitchen will be irresistible!

8. Serving: Let the pie cool slightly before cutting it completely. You can serve spanakopita warm, alongside a fresh salad, Greek yogurt, or a refreshing drink. It is also delicious cold, making it perfect for a picnic or as an appetizer.

Chef's tip: If you want a lighter version, you can replace the sheep feta with feta cheese or a mixture of cottage cheese with herbs. You can also add vegetables of your choice, such as grated carrots or zucchini, for extra flavor.

Nutritional benefits: Spinach is an excellent source of vitamin K, vitamin A, vitamin C, folic acid, and minerals like iron. Sheep feta provides a rich content of protein and calcium, making this pie not only a culinary delight but also a healthy option.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen spinach? Yes, frozen spinach is an excellent option. Make sure to thaw and drain it well before using.
2. How long does spanakopita last? It can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container. You can reheat it in the oven to restore its crispy texture.
3. Can I freeze spanakopita? Yes, it is a good choice for freezing. Make sure to cover it well with plastic wrap before placing it in the freezer.
4. What other recipes can I try with phyllo pastry? Phyllo pastry is very versatile. You can make baklava, sweet cheese pies, or meat pies.

Conclusion: Spanakopita is more than just a pie; it is a culinary experience that blends tradition with innovation. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or a festive meal, this recipe will bring smiles and joy to the table. Let yourself be carried away by its flavors and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen! Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: My friend Flori's recipe from Italy requires: 1 package of phyllo dough (400 g) 1 kg of fresh spinach leaves (obtained from 2 kg of spinach) virgin olive oil 1 small leek 1 large onion 400 g of sheep cheese 3 eggs 1 teaspoon of salt freshly ground pepper a bunch of dill 60 g of butter + 50 ml of olive oil for greasing