Spinach and Feta Pie Recipe

Discover the ultimate Mediterranean recipe that brings comfort and flavor right to your kitchen. This homemade pie captures the essence of Greek culinary traditions, combining fresh spinach and tangy feta cheese in a crispy phyllo pastry that will transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of Greece.

Spinach and feta pie is more than just a dish – it’s a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients transformed into something extraordinary. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or looking to impress guests at a potluck, this Mediterranean recipe offers a perfect blend of nutrition and taste.

Key Takeaways

Authentic Mediterranean recipe with rich cultural roots
Nutritious combination of spinach and feta cheese
Easy to prepare homemade pie for any occasion
Versatile dish suitable for vegetarians
Perfect balance of crispy phyllo and creamy filling

Essential Ingredients for Authentic Spinach and Feta Pie

Creating a delicious spinach feta pie requires carefully selected ingredients that capture the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. The right combination of fresh produce, high-quality dairy, and traditional seasonings will transform your dish from ordinary to extraordinary.

Fresh Produce and Dairy Essentials

The heart of any authentic spinach feta pie lies in its core ingredients. Select these spinach feta pie ingredients with care:

Fresh spinach – 2 pounds of crisp, dark green leaves
Premium feta cheese – 1 pound, crumbled
Organic yellow onions – 2 medium, finely chopped
Fresh garlic cloves – 3-4, minced
Large eggs – 4, for binding the filling

Phyllo Dough and Seasonings

Phyllo dough creates the signature flaky crust that defines this Mediterranean delicacy. When selecting your phyllo dough, opt for thin, delicate sheets that crisp beautifully when baked.

High-quality phyllo dough – 1 package
Extra virgin olive oil – for brushing layers
Mediterranean seasonings including:
- Dried oregano
- Fresh dill
- Ground black pepper
- Sea salt

Kitchen Tools and Equipment

Prepare your workspace with these essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience:

9×13 inch baking dish
Large mixing bowl
Sharp chef’s knife
Pastry brush
Colander for draining spinach

Spinach and Feta Pie Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions

Mastering how to make spinach feta pie is easier than you might think! This spinach pie recipe will guide you through creating a delicious Mediterranean-inspired dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Before you begin, gather all your ingredients and prepare your workspace. Here are the key steps for your step-by-step pie instructions:

Prepare the Spinach
- Wash fresh spinach thoroughly
- Chop spinach into small, uniform pieces
- Drain excess moisture completely
Create the Filling
- Sauté onions until translucent
- Mix chopped spinach with crumbled feta cheese
- Add salt, pepper, and fresh dill
Work with Phyllo Dough
- Carefully unroll phyllo sheets
- Brush each layer with olive oil
- Keep unused sheets covered with a damp towel
Assemble the Pie
- Layer phyllo sheets in a buttered baking dish
- Spread spinach and feta mixture evenly
- Create a crispy top layer with remaining phyllo
Bake to Perfection
- Preheat oven to 375°F
- Bake for 35-40 minutes
- Look for golden-brown, crispy top

Pro tip: Let the pie cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. This helps the filling set and makes cutting easier. Your homemade spinach and feta pie will be a crowd-pleaser!

Conclusion

Crafting a spinach and feta pie brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean diet right into your kitchen. This healthy comfort food transforms simple ingredients into a delectable dish that connects you with traditional cooking techniques passed down through generations.

Serving spinach feta pie opens up exciting culinary possibilities. Whether enjoyed as a main course or a delightful side dish, this recipe offers flexibility for home cooks seeking delicious and nutritious meals. Pair it with a crisp Greek salad or roasted vegetables to create a complete dining experience that celebrates fresh, wholesome ingredients.

Experimenting with variations keeps this recipe exciting. Try incorporating different cheeses like ricotta or goat cheese, or add roasted red peppers for extra depth. The beauty of this Mediterranean classic lies in its adaptability and ability to bring people together around a shared love of good food.

Your homemade spinach and feta pie represents more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of culinary tradition, health, and creativity. Embrace the joy of cooking and share this delightful dish with family and friends, creating memorable moments in your own kitchen.

FAQ

What is spinach and feta pie called in Greek cuisine?

In Greek cuisine, this delicious dish is traditionally known as spanakopita, which literally translates to “spinach pie”. It’s a classic Mediterranean pastry made with layers of flaky phyllo dough and a savory spinach and feta cheese filling.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

The spinach and feta pie is already vegetarian by nature. It contains no meat, making it a perfect option for vegetarian diets. However, if you want to ensure it’s completely vegetarian, double-check that the feta cheese is made without animal rennet.

How long can I store spinach and feta pie?

You can store the spinach and feta pie in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Cover it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap to maintain its freshness. When reheating, use an oven to help maintain the crispy phyllo crust, rather than a microwave which can make the pastry soggy.

Is spinach and feta pie healthy?

Spinach and feta pie can be relatively healthy. Spinach is packed with nutrients like iron, vitamin K, and antioxidants, while feta provides protein and calcium. However, it’s also high in calories due to the butter and phyllo dough, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Can I freeze spinach and feta pie?

Yes, you can freeze spinach and feta pie both before and after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. If freezing after baking, let it cool completely, then wrap similarly. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

What can I serve with spinach and feta pie?

Spinach and feta pie pairs wonderfully with Greek salad, tzatziki, hummus, or a light cucumber-yogurt sauce. It can be served as a main course or as a side dish for lunch or dinner. For a complete Mediterranean-style meal, consider serving it with grilled vegetables or a light protein like chicken or fish.

Are there gluten-free alternatives for this recipe?

To make a gluten-free version, you can substitute traditional phyllo dough with gluten-free phyllo pastry sheets available in some specialty stores. Alternatively, you can use gluten-free puff pastry or create a crustless version by baking the spinach and feta mixture in a casserole dish.