Greek Spinach and Feta Pie, also known as Spanakopita, is a delicious vegetarian dish that is easy to make. The ingredients include phyllo pastry sheets, spinach, onion, garlic, feta cheese, parsley, eggs, olive oil, and salt and pepper. To make the dish, preheat the oven and sauté the spinach with onion and garlic. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and mix in feta cheese, parsley, and beaten eggs. Layer phyllo pastry sheets with olive oil, add the spinach and feta mixture to the center, and fold the edges tightly. Cut slits in the top and bake for 40-45 minutes. This dish is perfect for family dinners and potluck parties.
Greek Spinach and Feta Pie: A Delicious Vegetarian Entree
Introduction
Greek Spinach and Feta Pie, also known as Spanakopita, is a tasty vegetarian dish that is easy to make and very satisfying. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a potluck party.
Ingredients
- 1 package of phyllo pastry sheets (thawed)
- 16 oz. of spinach (fresh or frozen)
- 1 onion (diced)
- 4 cloves of garlic (minced)
- 1 cup of crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup of fresh parsley (chopped)
- 3 eggs (lightly beaten)
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- If you are using fresh spinach, wash and rinse the leaves, then chop them into small pieces. If you are using frozen spinach, defrost it and squeeze out any excess water.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they are soft and translucent.
- Add the chopped spinach and sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach starts to wilt.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the mixture to a large bowl.
- Add the crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, and beaten eggs to the bowl. Mix well until all the ingredients are combined.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
- Take a baking sheet and lightly grease the surface with olive oil.
- Unroll the phyllo pastry sheets and place one sheet on the baking sheet. Brush some olive oil over the sheet.
- Repeat this process, layering each sheet on top of the other and brushing each sheet with olive oil until you have used half the sheets.
- Add the spinach and feta mixture to the center of the phyllo pastry sheets, leaving a border around the edges.
- Bring the edges of the pastry sheets up and over the mixture and tuck them in tightly. Brush some olive oil over the edges of the pie.
- Repeat the layering process with the remaining phyllo pastry sheets, brushing each sheet with olive oil.
- Brush the top of the pie with olive oil.
- Using a sharp knife, cut a few slits in the top of the pie to allow steam to escape during cooking.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes until the pastry is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Conclusion
Greek Spinach and Feta Pie is a delightful vegetarian entree that is perfect for any occasion. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can make this classic dish at home and enjoy its delicious flavors. So gather your ingredients, grab a baking sheet, and let’s get cooking!