Spinach-Feta Phyllo Pie(Greek Croustade)
A flavorful Greek spinach and feta pie with flaky phyllo layers, rich cheese filling, and buttery crispness, perfect for Mediterranean-inspired meals or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Defrost the spinach in the microwave.
- Mash the feta cheese and cottage cheese together.
- Drain and squeeze the frozen spinach to remove excess moisture.
- Add the drained spinach to the cheese mixture and mix well.
- Layer phyllo sheets in a greased dish, brushing each sheet with melted butter or olive oil.
- Spread the cheese and spinach mixture over the layered phyllo.
- Cover with remaining phyllo sheets, brushing each with butter or olive oil.
- Bake in a preheated oven until golden and crispy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispier crust, ensure each phyllo sheet is brushed generously with melted butter or olive oil, which adds flavor and golden color. If you're short on time, fresh spinach can be used instead of frozen; just sauté it briefly before mixing with the cheeses. To enhance the flavor, consider adding herbs like dill or parsley. This pie can also be customized by mixing in other Mediterranean ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
This Spinach-Feta Phyllo Pie can be served warm or at room temperature, making it a versatile dish for brunch or a light dinner. Consider pairing it with a fresh salad dressed with Greek Dressing or serving it alongside Roasted Vegetable Soup for a complete meal. It also makes a great appetizer when cut into bite-sized pieces for a gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the pie in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. You can also reheat individual slices in the microwave, but the oven method will help maintain the crispiness of the phyllo.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach-Feta Phyllo Pie(Greek Croustade) contains roughly 843 calories, with 11g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 71g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (35% of the Daily Value) and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 527mg per serving (23% 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 this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the spinach and cheese mixture and layer it with phyllo a day in advance. Just cover it well and refrigerate. Bake it fresh before serving to enjoy the crispy texture. Make sure to brush the top layer with butter or oil before baking.
What can I substitute for feta cheese?
If you don't have feta cheese, you can use goat cheese or ricotta as alternatives. Goat cheese will provide a tangy flavor similar to feta, while ricotta will make the filling creamier. Just keep in mind that the taste will differ slightly depending on your choice.
Can I freeze the Spinach-Feta Phyllo Pie?
Yes, this pie can be frozen before baking. Assemble it completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. This method helps preserve the texture of the phyllo, ensuring a delicious outcome.
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).