Best-Ever Spanakopita

This Best-Ever Spanakopita is a delightful Greek dish that combines flaky phyllo pastry with a savory spinach and feta filling. Perfect for appetizers, lunch, or dinner parties, this recipe showcases the vibrant flavors of Greece while being easy to prepare at home. The use of frozen spinach and premade phyllo makes it accessible for any home cook. Enjoy this buttery treat that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Using premade phyllo dough saves time, allowing you to focus on the delicious filling.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of spinach, feta, and herbs creates a rich and satisfying taste.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as an appetizer, main course, or even as part of a brunch spread.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its flaky texture and savory filling, this spanakopita is sure to impress guests at any gathering.
• Nut-Free and Vegetarian: This dish caters to various dietary preferences while remaining delicious.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare the Best-Ever Spanakopita, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Gathering these items beforehand will make your cooking process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Baking sheet
• Pastry brush
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Great for quickly chopping ingredients like onions and garlic, ensuring even distribution in the filling.
• Baking sheet: Provides ample space for baking your spanakopita evenly without overcrowding.
• Pastry brush: Essential for brushing olive oil on the phyllo sheets, creating that crispy texture you crave.

Ingredients

This buttery Greek Spanakopita is so easy to make at home with premade phyllo sheets and frozen spinach, spiked with lots of feta cheese.

For the Filling

• 2 (10-oz.) packages thawed, squeezed dry frozen chopped spinach
• 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/2 yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 scallions, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 1/2 tsp. dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1 c. crumbled feta (about 6 oz.)
• 1/4 c. chopped fresh dill
• 1 tsp. freshly grated lemon zest
• Pinch of grated fresh nutmeg (optional)

For the Phyllo Layers

• 10 (17-x-12) sheets frozen phyllo, thawed
• Extra-virgin olive oil, for brushing

How to Make Best-Ever Spanakopita

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed spinach with olive oil.
2. Add in the finely chopped onion, scallions, garlic, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Fold in crumbled feta cheese, fresh dill, lemon zest, and nutmeg (if using). Mix well until fully combined.

Step 2: Assemble the Spanakopita

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lay one sheet of thawed phyllo on a clean surface and brush lightly with olive oil.
3. Place another sheet on top and repeat the brushing process.
4. Spoon some of the filling along one edge of the prepared phyllo sheets.
5. Fold over the edges and roll it up tightly to form a log shape.
6. Place the rolled spanakopita on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 3: Bake

1. Brush the outside of each spanakopita log with more olive oil.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and crisp.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Best-Ever Spanakopita! Serve warm as a delicious snack or part of your meal!

How to Serve Best-Ever Spanakopita

This delicious buttery Greek Spanakopita is perfect for various occasions. Whether you serve it as an appetizer or a main dish, there are many ways to enjoy this savory treat.

As an Appetizer

• Serve warm: Best served fresh out of the oven for that crispy texture.
• Pair with tzatziki: The coolness of tzatziki complements the warmth of the Spanakopita beautifully.

As a Main Course

• Accompany with salad: A light Greek salad can balance the richness of the pie.
• Enjoy with hummus: Spread some hummus on the side for added flavor and texture.

For Parties

• Create a platter: Arrange slices of Spanakopita alongside olives and stuffed grape leaves for a Mediterranean spread.
• Offer dipping sauces: Provide various dips like red pepper dip or tahini sauce for guests to enjoy.

How to Perfect Best-Ever Spanakopita

Making the best-ever Spanakopita requires attention to detail and technique. Follow these tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality feta cheese enhance the flavors significantly.
• Thoroughly dry spinach: Squeeze out excess moisture from thawed spinach to prevent sogginess in your pastry.
• Layer phyllo properly: Brush each layer of phyllo with olive oil; this helps achieve a crispy texture.
• Season well: Taste your filling before assembling; adjust salt and spices for optimal flavor.
• Cut before baking: Slice your assembled Spanakopita before baking to create clean edges after cooking.
• Serve immediately: For the best experience, enjoy your Spanakopita while it’s still warm and crispy.

Best Side Dishes for Best-Ever Spanakopita

Pairing side dishes with your Best-Ever Spanakopita can elevate your meal. Here are some delightful options that complement its flavors well.

1. Greek Salad – A refreshing mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta dressed in olive oil and lemon juice.
2. Tzatziki Sauce – A yogurt-based sauce with cucumber and garlic that adds a cool contrast to the warm pie.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables roasted with herbs bring out their natural sweetness and pair nicely.
4. Chickpea Salad – A protein-packed salad featuring chickpeas, bell peppers, and a zesty dressing that balances richness.
5. Stuffed Grape Leaves – These savory bites filled with rice and herbs make for an excellent addition to any Mediterranean spread.
6. Olive Tapenade – A flavorful blend of olives, capers, and herbs that works as a delicious dip alongside Spanakopita.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the Best-Ever Spanakopita can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some tips to help you avoid them:

• Using soggy phyllo: Always ensure your phyllo sheets are thawed properly and kept covered with a damp cloth while you work. This prevents them from drying out and becoming difficult to handle.
• Overcooking spinach: If using fresh spinach, be cautious not to overcook it before mixing it into your filling. Lightly sauté just until wilted to maintain flavor and texture.
• Skimping on seasoning: Don’t forget to season your filling well! A pinch of salt, pepper, and herbs like oregano or dill will enhance the overall taste of your spanakopita.
• Not brushing with oil: Brushing each layer of phyllo with olive oil is essential for achieving that crispy, golden finish. Make sure to apply oil generously between layers.
• Ignoring rest time: Allow the assembled spanakopita to rest for about 10 minutes before baking. This helps the filling settle and improves the structure of the pastry.
• Skipping the egg wash: While not traditional in all recipes, adding an egg wash on top before baking can give your spanakopita an extra beautiful sheen.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Best-Ever Spanakopita in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Best-Ever Spanakopita

• Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• You can freeze for up to 2 months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating Best-Ever Spanakopita

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes but note this may soften the pastry.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes on each side until crispy again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the Best-Ever Spanakopita:

Can I make Spanakopita ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate until ready to bake.

What can I use instead of feta cheese?

If you’re looking for alternatives, try using ricotta or a plant-based cheese substitute for a different flavor profile.

How do I know when my Spanakopita is done baking?

Your spanakopita is ready when it’s golden brown on top and feels crisp to the touch.

Can I add other fillings to my Spanakopita?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers, or even add herbs for extra flavor.

Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?

You can use gluten-free phyllo dough available at most grocery stores to create a gluten-free version of Best-Ever Spanakopita.

Final Thoughts

The Best-Ever Spanakopita is not only delicious but incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite herbs or additional veggies. This dish is perfect as an appetizer or main course and is sure to impress at any gathering. Don’t hesitate; give this recipe a try today!