Spanakopita (Spinach and Feta Pie)
Equipment
- 1 big bowl to mix
- 1 stove
- 1 pie dish approx. 23 cm x 33 cm
- 1 kitchen brush
Ingredients
- 500 gr fresh spinach or frozen (drained)
- 200 gr feta cheese crumbled
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 3 eggs lightly beaten
- 3 T to s. olive oil
- 1 T to s. fresh parsley chopped
- 1 T to s. fresh dill chopped
- 1 package filo pastry about 500gr
- 50 gr melted butter to brush the filo sheets
- 1 T to c. ground pepper
- 1/2 T to c. this
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Prepare the spinach: If you're using fresh spinach, steam it until wilted, then drain well and chop coarsely. If using frozen spinach, defrost and drain well.
- Brown the onion: In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp. to s. of olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent.
- Mix the filling: In a large bowl, combine the spinach, onion, crumbled feta cheese, beaten eggs, parsley, dill, salt and pepper. Mix well to obtain a smooth filling.
- Prepare the filo pastry: Unroll the filo pastry and cover it with a damp cloth to prevent it from drying out. Brush the pie dish with a little melted butter.
- Assemble the spanakopita: Place a sheet of filo pastry in the pie dish, leaving it overhanging the edges. Brush with melted butter. Repeat with approximately 6 to 8 sheets of filo pastry. Spread the spinach filling over the filo pastry sheets. Cover the filling with the remaining sheets of filo pastry, brushing each sheet with melted butter.
- Place in the oven: Fold the edges of the filo pastry sheets over the filling and brush the top with melted butter. Carefully cut spanakopita into squares or diamonds before baking, to make it easier to cut after cooking. Bake for 45 minutes, or until golden and crisp.
- Let cool: Let the spanakopita cool slightly before serving to allow the filling to firm up.
Nutrition
Discover the Delights of Greek Spanakopita
Spanakopita, a delicious spinach and feta cheese pie, is a classic of Greek cuisine. With its layers of crispy filo pastry and its tasty filling, this recipe is perfect for a convivial meal or as a starter.
The History of Spanakopita
Originating in ancient Greece, spanakopita is a perfect example of the richness of Mediterranean cuisine. It reflects the country’s agricultural traditions, using fresh ingredients like spinach and aromatic herbs, combined with feta, an iconic cheese of the region.
Essential Ingredients
Spanakopita consists mainly of filo pastry sheets, spinach, feta cheese and aromatic herbs like dill and parsley. The combination of these ingredients gives the pie a unique flavor and perfect texture.
Preparing Spanakopita
To make a successful spanakopita, it is essential to prepare the spinach well by draining it carefully to prevent it from releasing too much water when cooking. Filo pastry sheets must be handled with care so as not to tear.
Nutritional Contributions of Spanakopita
Spanakopita is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, iron and calcium, thanks to the spinach and feta cheese. The light and crispy filo dough adds a delicious texture without being too high in calories.
Tasting and Accompaniment
Spanakopita can be enjoyed hot or at room temperature. It can be served as a starter, as a main course with a Greek salad, or as an appetizer cut into small squares. A glass of dry white wine like Assyrtiko goes perfectly with this dish.
Regional Variants
Each region of Greece may have its own version of spanakopita. For example, some versions include additional herbs like mint, or use a blend of cheeses instead of just feta.
Conservation Tips
Spanakopita keeps well in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 days. It can also be frozen before cooking and cooked straight from the freezer, extending the cooking time by a few minutes.
Culinary Experience in Greece
Enjoying spanakopita in Greece, whether at a local taverna or homemade by a yia yia (Greek grandmother), is an authentic culinary experience. The freshness of the ingredients and traditional know-how make each bite unforgettable.
Spanakopita and Greek Culture
Spanakopita is much more than just a dish; it embodies the spirit of Greek cuisine, with its emphasis on fresh ingredients, authentic flavors and conviviality. It is often prepared during festivals and celebrations, symbolizing the richness of the Greek culinary tradition.
Spanakopita, with its rich flavors and varied textures, is a true celebration of Greek cuisine. Whether you prepare it at home or enjoy it in Greece, this tart will bring a touch of authenticity and tradition to your table.
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