Traditional Spinach and Cheese Phyllo Pie

 

Traditional Spinach and Cheese Phyllo Pie: A Timeless Mediterranean Delight

Few dishes capture the essence of Mediterranean home cooking quite like the Traditional Spinach and Cheese Phyllo Pie. Known by many names—such as Spanakopita in Greece or Börek in Turkey—this savory pie combines flaky layers of delicate phyllo dough with a flavorful filling of fresh spinach, tangy cheese, and aromatic herbs. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect as a main dish, appetizer, or snack.

The Heart of the Dish: Spinach and Cheese

At the core of this dish lies a simple yet delicious mixture of spinach and cheese. The greens bring a vibrant freshness and slight earthiness, while the cheese adds richness and creaminess. Traditionally, feta cheese is the star, celebrated for its salty tang and crumbly texture, but variations can include ricotta, cottage cheese, or a blend of cheeses for added depth.

The Magic of Phyllo Dough

What sets this pie apart is the use of phyllo (or filo) dough—paper-thin sheets of pastry that bake up crisp and golden. Layered generously with butter or olive oil, the phyllo creates a stunningly light yet crunchy crust that perfectly contrasts the soft, savory filling. While working with phyllo can be intimidating for beginners, the results are truly worth the effort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Fresh or frozen spinach (thawed and drained)

• Feta cheese (crumbled)

• Onions and garlic (finely chopped)

• Fresh herbs such as dill, parsley, or mint

• Eggs (to bind the filling)

• Olive oil or melted butter (for brushing phyllo)

• Salt and pepper for seasoning

• Phyllo dough sheets

How to Make Traditional Spinach and Cheese Phyllo Pie

1. Prepare the Filling: Sauté onions and garlic until soft and fragrant. Add the spinach and cook until wilted and excess moisture evaporates. Transfer to a bowl and mix in crumbled feta, chopped herbs, eggs, salt, and pepper.

2. Layer the Phyllo: In a greased baking dish, place a sheet of phyllo dough and brush lightly with olive oil or melted butter. Repeat with several layers (usually 6-8 sheets), ensuring each layer is coated for crispness.

3. Add the Filling: Spread the spinach and cheese mixture evenly over the layered phyllo base.

4. Top Layers: Cover the filling with additional phyllo sheets, brushing each with oil or butter, and layering until about 6-8 sheets have been used on top.

5. Score the Pie: Before baking, lightly score the top layers into squares or diamonds to make cutting easier after baking.

6. Bake to Perfection: Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 40-45 minutes, or until the phyllo is golden brown and crisp.

Serving Suggestions

This pie is delicious warm or at room temperature, making it ideal for picnics, potlucks, or casual dinners. Pair it with a fresh salad, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or a side of tzatziki sauce for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Nutritious and Delicious: Loaded with greens and protein-rich cheese, it’s a healthy comfort food option.

• Versatile: You can customize the filling by adding ingredients like leeks, scallions, or different herbs.

• Impressive Yet Simple: It looks sophisticated but is surprisingly straightforward to make.

• Cultural Connection: Making this pie lets you experience a traditional Mediterranean culinary heritage.

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Final Thoughts

The Traditional Spinach and Cheese Phyllo Pie is a beautiful balance of flaky textures and savory flavors that brings a little Mediterranean sunshine to your table. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this classic dish is sure to delight. Give it a try and enjoy a timeless recipe that celebrates simplicity and freshness in every bite.