Spanakopeta
Spanakopeta is a delicious Greek spinach pie filled with seasoned spinach, feta, and herbs, baked to golden perfection, offering a savory, flaky treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook onions, scallions, and parsley with olive oil until softened.
- Add spices (dill, mint, oregano) and cook on low heat, stirring constantly.
- In a bowl, crumble feta cheese and add milk and beaten eggs, mixing well.
- Chop fresh spinach and combine with the cheese mixture.
- Add cooled herb mixture to the spinach and mix thoroughly.
- Pour the mixture into a prepared baking dish or pie crust.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 45 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using less olive oil or substituting some with vegetable oil. If fresh spinach isn't available, frozen spinach works well when thawed and drained. You can also mix in other herbs like basil or thyme for added flavor. Make sure the feta cheese is well-crumbled for even distribution throughout the spanakopita.
Serving Suggestions
Spanakopita is delicious served warm or at room temperature, making it perfect for parties or as a light lunch. Pair it with a fresh salad, like a Mediterranean salad, or sides such as Garlic-Sauted Tomatoes for a complete meal. It can also be enjoyed as an appetizer or snack.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the spanakopita in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the pastry soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spanakopeta contains roughly 1709 calories, with 57g protein, 259g carbohydrates, and 82g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (486% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (218% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1735mg per serving (75% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make spanakopita in advance?
Yes, you can prepare spanakopita ahead of time. Assemble the pie, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of feta cheese?
If you need a substitute for feta cheese, crumbled goat cheese or ricotta can work well, though they will change the flavor profile slightly. For a dairy-free option, try using tofu blended with nutritional yeast and a bit of lemon juice for tanginess.
How do I know when the spanakopita is done baking?
The spanakopita is done when it is golden brown on top and the filling is set. You can insert a knife into the center; if it comes out clean, it’s ready. Keep an eye on it during the last 10 minutes of baking to prevent over-browning.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).