Spanakopita, a traditional Greek dish, is a savory pastry filled with a delicious mixture of spinach, feta cheese, and herbs, all wrapped in layers of flaky phyllo dough. This classic appetizer is perfect for entertaining or as a satisfying snack any time of day. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the steps to make your own homemade spanakopita, along with helpful tips, variations, and even keto-friendly and low-carb options.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is spanakopita? A: Spanakopita is a Greek dish consisting of layers of flaky phyllo dough filled with a mixture of spinach, feta cheese, onions, and herbs. It is typically served as an appetizer or side dish.
Q: Can I make spanakopita ahead of time? A: Yes, spanakopita can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen until ready to bake. If freezing, be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Q: Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh? A: Yes, frozen spinach can be used in place of fresh spinach. Simply thaw the spinach and squeeze out any excess moisture before using it in the filling.
Ingredients:
- 1 egg
- 125 ml (1/2 cup) milk
- 125 ml (1/2 cup) vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- In a large bowl, beat the egg with the milk, vegetable oil, water, and salt until well combined.
Step 2: Make the Dough
- Slowly add the flour to the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
- Divide the dough into small balls and roll each ball into a thin circle, about 8 inches in diameter.
Step 4: Fill and Fold the Spanakopita
- Place a spoonful of the spinach and feta filling onto one half of each dough circle.
- Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape.
- Press the edges of the dough together to seal the filling inside.
Step 5: Bake the Spanakopita
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the filled spanakopita on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the spanakopita from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
- Serve warm or at room temperature with your favorite dipping sauce or tzatziki.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add Herbs: Enhance the flavor of the filling by adding chopped fresh herbs such as dill, parsley, or mint.
- Add Lemon Zest: For a bright and citrusy flavor, add some grated lemon zest to the filling.
- Add Nuts: For added texture and flavor, stir in some toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts to the filling mixture.
Keto Versions and Low-Carb Options:
- Low-Carb Phyllo Dough: Substitute traditional phyllo dough with a low-carb alternative made from almond flour or coconut flour for a keto-friendly version.
- Replace Flour: Use almond flour or coconut flour in place of all-purpose flour in the dough to reduce the carb content.
Homemade spanakopita is a delicious and satisfying appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. With its crispy golden crust and flavorful spinach and feta filling, it’s sure to be a hit with friends and family alike. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a tasty snack, give this recipe a try and enjoy the irresistible flavors of Greece in every bite!
