Spinach And Cheese Squares(Spankopetes)
Delicious spinach and cheese squares featuring a flaky phyllo crust, creamy cheese filling, and savory herbs—perfect for appetizers, brunch, or light snacks for cheese lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese and eggs until well combined.
- Stir in crumbled feta cheese.
- Add chopped onion and drained, squeezed-dry spinach to the mixture.
- Layer a cookie sheet with phyllo dough and butter each sheet until half of the package is used.
- Pour the cheese mixture over the layered dough and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
- Layer again with remaining phyllo sheets, buttering each layer until the package is finished.
- Refrigerate for 1 hour.
- Cut into 2-inch squares and bake until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some herbs like dill or mint with the cheese mixture. If you can't find phyllo dough, you can use puff pastry as an alternative, though it will yield a different texture. Ensure the spinach is well-drained to avoid a soggy filling. For a twist, you might add some sautéed mushrooms or artichokes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Spinach and Cheese Squares warm, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. They make a perfect appetizer or snack and pair beautifully with a fresh Tomato, Onion And Pepper Salad. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a light Herbed Spaghetti Squash or a simple Greek Easter Bread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the squares in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave them, but be cautious as they may become soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach And Cheese Squares(Spankopetes) contains roughly 377 calories, with 12g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (55% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (33% of the Daily Value), and potassium (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1303mg per serving (57% 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 the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese filling a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and assemble the squares just before baking. This can save time and make for a smooth preparation process on the day you serve them.
Is it necessary to use both ricotta and feta cheese?
Using both ricotta and feta gives the dish a rich, creamy texture and a tangy flavor. If you prefer, you can substitute all the feta with goat cheese for a different taste, but the combination offers the best flavor profile.
Can I freeze the Spinach and Cheese Squares?
Yes, you can freeze unbaked squares. Assemble them, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. This makes for an easy meal prep option!
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).