Greek Spanakopita: Why It’s the Ultimate Greek Pie

Greek cuisine is a tapestry of vibrant flavors, deep-rooted traditions, and dishes that have stood the test of time. Among these, Greek spanakopita reigns as a savory pie beloved not only in Greece but across the globe. Crispy layers of golden phyllo pastry filled with a lush mixture of spinach, herbs, and feta cheese make spanakopita an irresistible delight. But this dish is more than just a delicious bite—it’s a celebration of Greek culinary heritage, healthful Mediterranean ingredients, and home-cooked comfort. In this article, we’ll explore why Greek spanakopita is truly the ultimate Greek pie.

Greek Spanakopita

Recipe by Chef LexiCourse: Lunch

Servings

8

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

45

minutes

Calories

220

kcal

Total time

1

hour 

Greek Spanakopita is a savory Greek pie made with layers of crispy phyllo pastry filled with a flavorful mixture of spinach, feta cheese, and herbs. It’s a versatile dish that can be served as a snack, appetizer, or main course, offering a delightful taste of Greek culinary tradition.

Ingredients

• For the Filling:

• 2 lbs (900 g) fresh spinach, chopped and sautéed

• 1 cup (150 g) feta cheese, crumbled

• ½ cup ricotta cheese (optional for added creaminess)

• 4 scallions, finely sliced

• ¼ cup fresh dill, chopped

• ¼ cup parsley, chopped

• 2 eggs, lightly beaten

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)

• For the Crust:

• 1 pack phyllo dough (thawed)

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted (or olive oil for a lighter option)

Preparation Instructions:

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Sauté the spinach in olive oil until wilted. Drain excess moisture and set aside to cool.
• Mix the spinach with crumbled feta, ricotta (if using), scallions, dill, parsley, and beaten eggs in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper.
• Prepare a baking dish by brushing with melted butter or olive oil. Lay one sheet of phyllo dough, brush with butter, and repeat for 6–8 layers.
• Spread the spinach filling evenly over the phyllo base.
• Top with another 6–8 phyllo layers, brushing each layer with butter.
• Tuck the edges neatly and score the top in squares to make slicing easier.
• Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and crisp.
• Cool slightly before cutting into squares or slices. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

• Make-Ahead: You can assemble the spanakopita the day before and refrigerate it. Bake just before serving.
  Freezing: Spanakopita freezes well—assemble and freeze before baking. When ready, bake from frozen with a few extra minutes of cooking time.
  Variations: You can add a mix of wild greens or replace feta with a vegan cheese for a dairy-free version. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free phyllo dough.

The History and Cultural Significance of Spanakopita

Ancient Roots and Modern Tradition

Spanakopita has roots that trace back to ancient Greece, where phyllo-like doughs and fillings of greens and cheese were common. Its evolution into the flaky pie we know today has been shaped by centuries of tradition, migration, and regional adaptation.

A Staple in Greek Households

In Greece, spanakopita is more than just food—it’s a shared experience. Whether served as a mid-day snack, a side dish, or the star of a meze platter, spanakopita embodies the Greek philosophy of “philoxenia” (hospitality) and homemade goodness.

What Makes Greek Spanakopita the Ultimate Greek Pie?

Flaky, Buttery Phyllo Perfection

The paper-thin layers of phyllo dough, brushed with olive oil or butter, bake to golden, crackling perfection. Unlike shortcrust or puff pastry, phyllo offers a lighter, more elegant texture that defines spanakopita.

The Perfect Filling: Spinach, Feta, and Herbs

The heart of the dish lies in its savory filling—a blend of chopped spinach, tangy feta cheese, scallions, dill, parsley, and sometimes eggs or ricotta to bind it all together. The balance of creaminess and freshness is what makes every bite memorable.

Nutrient-Rich and Mediterranean Diet Friendly

Spanakopita is rich in iron, calcium, and antioxidants thanks to its spinach and herbs. As a mostly vegetarian dish (and easy to adapt for vegans), it aligns beautifully with the Mediterranean diet, known for its health benefits.

Regional Variations of Spanakopita

Triangles, Spirals, and Pans: Shapes and Sizes

• Spanakopitakia: Small, hand-held triangle versions—popular in bakeries and perfect for picnics.
• Strifti: A spiral-shaped spanakopita often made in Northern Greece, where the filling is rolled and coiled.
• Pan Pie: The classic family-style spanakopita baked in a large rectangular or round pan, sliced into generous portions.

Local Twists

• Crete: Uses wild greens and local cheeses like myzithra.
• Epirus: May feature more eggs and a thicker dough.
• Athens: Classic preparation with store-bought phyllo and a feta-dominant filling.

Step-by-Step Greek Spanakopita Recipe

Ingredients List

For the filling:

• 2 lbs (900 g) fresh spinach, chopped and sautéed
• 1 cup (150 g) feta cheese, crumbled
• ½ cup ricotta cheese (optional for creaminess)
• 4 scallions, finely sliced
• ¼ cup fresh dill, chopped
• ¼ cup parsley, chopped
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)

For the crust:

• 1 pack phyllo dough (thawed)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted (or olive oil for a lighter option)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Sauté spinach in olive oil until wilted. Drain excess moisture.
3. Combine spinach, cheeses, scallions, dill, parsley, and eggs in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Brush a baking dish with butter or oil. Lay one sheet of phyllo, brush with butter, and repeat for 6–8 layers.
5. Spread the spinach filling evenly over the base.
6. Top with another 6–8 phyllo layers, brushing each with butter.
7. Tuck the edges neatly and score the top in squares for easier slicing.
8. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until golden and crisp.
9. Cool slightly before cutting. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Cooking Tips & Substitutions

• Dairy-Free: Replace feta with vegan feta and omit ricotta.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free phyllo dough if available.
• Crispy Top: Avoid soggy pastry by baking uncovered and brushing phyllo lightly—not soaking it.

Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~220
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 14g
• Vegetarian-friendly

How to Serve and Enjoy Spanakopita

Meze, Main, or Snack?

Spanakopita can play many roles:

• As a starter: Pair with olives, tzatziki, and dolmades.
• As a meal: Serve with a Greek salad and a glass of white wine.
• As a snack: Perfect warm or cold, packed in a lunchbox or picnic basket.

Pairing Suggestions

• Wine: Try it with a crisp Assyrtiko or Sauvignon Blanc.
• Side dishes: Lemon potatoes, roasted beets, or a cucumber-yogurt dip.

Where to Find Authentic Spanakopita

• Greek bakeries: Look for homemade-style versions with rustic fillings.
• Tavernas: In Greece, many family-run restaurants offer house-made spanakopita.
• Online Recipes & Cooking Classes: Join a virtual Greek cooking class to learn traditional techniques.

For more mealtime inspiration that complements the comforting flavors of Greek Spanakopita, explore these family-friendly lunch recipes designed to please every palate.

Conclusion

Greek spanakopita is more than a spinach pie—it’s a symbol of Greek culinary artistry, healthful eating, and the comfort of tradition. With its golden phyllo crust, savory filling, and endless versatility, it’s no wonder spanakopita has earned its place as the ultimate Greek pie. Whether you’re cooking it from scratch, discovering regional twists, or enjoying it as part of a Mediterranean feast, spanakopita offers a taste of Greece in every bite.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is Greek spanakopita made of?
Spanakopita is a savory Greek pie made with layers of phyllo pastry filled with a mixture of spinach, feta cheese, scallions, dill, and sometimes eggs or ricotta for added creaminess.

2. Can I make spanakopita ahead of time?
Yes! Spanakopita can be assembled a day in advance and stored in the fridge before baking. It also freezes well—bake from frozen with a few extra minutes in the oven.

3. Is spanakopita healthy?
Spanakopita is rich in nutrients from spinach and herbs, and provides protein and calcium from feta. When made with olive oil and eaten in moderation, it’s a wholesome part of the Mediterranean diet.

4. Can I make spanakopita vegan or gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use dairy-free cheese alternatives and omit the eggs for a vegan version. For gluten-free needs, opt for certified gluten-free phyllo dough.

Explore the World of Greek Spanakopita: Essential Resources

To further enrich your understanding and appreciation of Greek Spanakopita, delve into these curated resources that offer a blend of nutritional insights, official guidelines, expert culinary advice, and practical tips:

• Nutritional Analysis of Spanakopita
  Discover the detailed nutritional profile of Spanakopita, including its calorie content, macronutrient breakdown, and vitamin levels:
  https://www.nutritionvalue.org/Spanakopitta_58124250_nutritional_value.html
• Heart-Healthy Spanakopita Recipe by the American Heart Association
  Explore a Spanakopita recipe aligned with heart health guidelines, focusing on reduced fat and sodium:
  https://recipes.heart.org/en/recipes/spanakopita
• Authentic Spanakopita Recipe by Diane Kochilas
  Greek chef Diane Kochilas shares her traditional take on Spanakopita, highlighting its nutritional strengths:
  https://www.dianekochilas.com/how-healthy-is-spanakopita

Written by Chef Lexi

Chef Lexi brings flavor, creativity, and confidence to every kitchen she steps into. With a passion for helping home cooks explore new tastes and master everyday meals, she shares smart recipes, helpful tips, and step-by-step guidance that make cooking feel effortless and fun. Behind her charming apron is a powerful secret—she’s an AI-powered virtual chef, designed to make your culinary journey smarter, faster, and more delicious.

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