Authentic Greek Spanakopita – Crispy, Cheesy & Irresistible

Try this easy homemade Spanakopita recipe from www.dailymeatrecipe.com! This traditional Greek dish is packed with flavor, nutritious ingredients, and simple steps. Perfect for meat lovers and vegetarians alike, this cooking guide ensures a delicious meal every time.

Introduction

If you’re craving a savory pastry with rich, comforting flavor, look no further than Spanakopita. This classic Greek recipe combines flaky layers of phyllo pastry with a hearty spinach and cheese filling. While traditionally vegetarian, Spanakopita fits right in with meat-focused meal planning due to its protein-packed filling and versatility. Whether you’re preparing a holiday meal or a quick weekday dinner, this Spanakopita recipe promises great taste with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 green onions, sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 lb fresh spinach, chopped (or 10 oz frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 8 oz feta cheese, crumbled
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Pastry:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (or olive oil for a lighter option)
• 12 sheets phyllo dough, thawed

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 290
• Protein: 9g
• Carbs: 23g
• Fat: 19g
• Fiber: 2g

This Spanakopita is a balanced meal choice, offering plenty of protein and nutrients with fewer calories than traditional meat dishes.

Preparation Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Cook the aromatics: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, green onion, and garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened.
3. Add the greens: Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted (or warmed through if using frozen). Remove from heat. Add parsley and dill. Let the mixture cool slightly.
4. Mix the filling: Once cool, combine the spinach mixture with eggs and feta cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Layer the phyllo: Place one sheet of phyllo dough into the dish and brush with melted butter. Repeat with half the sheets, buttering each.
6. Add filling: Spread the spinach filling evenly over the phyllo base.
7. Top layer: Cover with the remaining phyllo sheets, buttering each layer.
8. Bake: Score the top layers into squares. Bake for 45 minutes until golden brown. Cool slightly before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Spanakopita is a versatile dish. Serve it as a main with a simple Greek salad or pair it with grilled meat for a balanced meal. It’s also ideal as a party appetizer or picnic snack. This recipe works equally well for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Pro Tips

• Use fresh herbs for a brighter flavor.
• Phyllo dough dries quickly; cover unused sheets with a damp cloth.
• For a meatier variation, add ground lamb or chicken to the filling.
• Pre-bake the bottom layers for extra crispiness.

Variations

• Meat Variation: Add cooked ground beef or lamb to the spinach mixture.
• Cheese Substitute: Try ricotta or goat cheese instead of feta.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pastry sheets.
• Vegan Alternative: Replace cheese with tofu and eggs with flaxseed meal.

FAQ

Q: Can I make Spanakopita ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble it in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

Q: Can Spanakopita be frozen?
A: Absolutely. Freeze unbaked for best results, then bake straight from frozen.

Q: What meat pairs well with Spanakopita?
A: Grilled chicken, lamb skewers, or baked meatballs are perfect matches.

Conclusion with Call-to-Action

Spanakopita is a satisfying, flavorful dish that proves you don’t need meat for a hearty recipe—but you can still pair it with your favorite meats for a full meal. Its crisp pastry and rich filling make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Give this Spanakopita recipe a try, and don’t forget to leave a comment to share how yours turned out. For more delicious meat-friendly recipes, visit www.dailymeatrecipe.com and make your next meal a hit!