Authentic Greek Spanakopita – Spinach and Feta Pie Recipe

If you’re looking to bring a taste of Greece right into your kitchen, this Authentic Greek Spanakopita – Spinach and Feta Pie is an absolute must-try. This savory pastry perfectly balances flaky layers of golden phyllo dough with a luscious filling of spinach, fresh herbs, and tangy feta cheese. Each bite delivers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors that feels both comforting and exciting, evoking the sunny Mediterranean with every forkful. Whether for a family dinner, a festive gathering, or just because you deserve something amazing, this recipe boasts tradition and simplicity all wrapped up in one delicious pie.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is the first step towards making your Authentic Greek Spanakopita – Spinach and Feta Pie shine. Each component plays a crucial role in layering flavor, moisture, and texture, turning humble pantry staples into a dish you’ll want to make again and again.

• Olive oil (1/2 cup): Adds richness and helps sauté the vegetables, contributing a fruity Mediterranean aroma.
• Large onion (1, finely chopped): Brings sweetness and depth as it softens in the pan.
• Green onions (4, chopped): Offer a gentle sharpness and fresh bite to the filling.
• Fresh spinach (1 lb, washed and chopped): The star leafy green that creates the vibrant base of the filling.
• Fresh parsley (1/2 cup, chopped): Adds a refreshing herbaceous note.
• Fresh dill (1/4 cup, chopped): Introduces a unique, slightly tangy flavor essential to traditional Spanakopita.
• Garlic cloves (2, minced): Enhance the savory background with their bold, aromatic punch.
• Feta cheese (8 oz, crumbled): The salty, creamy hero that gives the pie its characteristic tang and moisture.
• Large eggs (2, lightly beaten): Bind the filling together for a perfect, cohesive texture.
• Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that elevate every other ingredient.
• Phyllo dough (1 lb, thawed): Delicate, paper-thin layers that crisp to golden perfection in the oven.
• Melted butter or olive oil (1/2 cup): Used to brush the phyllo sheets, ensuring a beautiful, flaky crust.

How to Make Authentic Greek Spanakopita – Spinach and Feta Pie

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish generously with olive oil; this will keep the phyllo from sticking and add a lovely sheen to the bottom crust. Taking care of this first step ensures your pie bakes evenly and comes out beautifully golden.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and garlic, and gently sauté until they become soft and translucent. This slow cooking brings out their natural sweetness and lays the fragrant groundwork for the spinach mixture.

Step 3: Wilt the Greens and Add Herbs

Into the skillet, toss the chopped spinach, parsley, and dill. Cook them until the greens are just wilted — this step helps release their moisture and intensifies their flavors. Once done, remove the skillet from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly; this keeps the eggs from scrambling in the next step.

Step 4: Combine the Filling

In a mixing bowl, stir together the warm spinach mixture, crumbled feta, beaten eggs, salt, and black pepper. This combination creates the rich and creamy filling that will contrast perfectly with the crispy phyllo layers, giving your pie that legendary Greek flavor.

Step 5: Layer the Phyllo Sheets

Carefully layer half of the thawed phyllo sheets into your baking dish, brushing each sheet generously with melted butter or olive oil. This process is key for achieving that irresistibly flaky texture we all crave in spanakopita. Patience here pays off with every crunchy bite.

Step 6: Add the Filling and Finish the Layers

Spread the spinach and feta filling evenly over the layered phyllo base. Then, cover the mixture with the remaining phyllo sheets, again brushing each layer with melted butter or olive oil. Before baking, score the top layer into squares or diamond shapes. This little trick helps the heat penetrate evenly and makes serving a breeze.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden and Crisp

Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top turns a rich golden brown and the phyllo blossoms into crispy, flaky perfection. Let it cool just enough before slicing so the filling sets beautifully and doesn’t spill out when cut.

How to Serve Authentic Greek Spanakopita – Spinach and Feta Pie

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley on top not only brightens the presentation but also complements the pie’s herbal notes. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a wedge of lemon on the side can add an extra zest that guests will love. These simple touches make your serving elegant and inviting.

Side Dishes

Authentic Greek Spanakopita – Spinach and Feta Pie pairs wonderfully with a crisp Greek salad overflowing with tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives, dressed in lemon and oregano. For a heartier meal, consider adding a side of tzatziki or roasted potatoes to round things out. These sides keep the meal light and refreshing, perfect for any season.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual portions on rustic wooden boards for a casual vibe or plate them with a colorful yogurt dip in small bowls for dipping. You can even cut the pie into bite-sized squares for a party platter—perfect finger food that will vanish quickly! Presentation is your chance to add a special touch to this beloved dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover spanakopita keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually meld overnight, making your leftovers even more delicious. Just be sure to reheat properly to preserve the flakiness of the phyllo.

Freezing

You can freeze the pie before baking by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then storing it for up to two months. When you’re ready, bake it straight from frozen—just add about 10 to 15 extra minutes to the baking time. This is perfect for meal prepping or saving for a special occasion.

Reheating

To reheat, pop slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 15 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving if possible, since it tends to make phyllo soggy. A toaster oven or conventional oven will bring back that delightful crunch just like freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Absolutely! If using frozen spinach, be sure to thaw and squeeze out as much moisture as possible before mixing it in. This prevents your spanakopita from becoming soggy and ensures a perfect texture.

Is it necessary to use phyllo dough, or can I substitute puff pastry?

Phyllo dough is traditional for authentic texture and crispness, but puff pastry is a workable substitute that will result in a different, slightly richer texture. If you use puff pastry, you can skip brushing each layer with butter or oil.

Can I make spanakopita vegetarian?

This recipe is inherently vegetarian since it contains no meat. The filling relies on fresh greens and feta cheese, making it great for those following a meat-free diet.

How do I prevent phyllo dough from drying out?

Phyllo dries out quickly once exposed to air. Keep it covered with a clean, damp kitchen towel while working, and brush each sheet generously with butter or olive oil to lock in moisture.

What can I serve with spanakopita for a complete meal?

Pair it with a fresh Greek salad, grilled vegetables, or a light lemony soup. These sides balance the richness of the pie and round out your meal with brightness and texture.

Final Thoughts

Making an Authentic Greek Spanakopita – Spinach and Feta Pie at home is truly rewarding and a beautiful way to impress your family and friends with a classic Mediterranean flavor. The blend of flaky phyllo, vibrant greens, and salty feta comes together effortlessly, transporting you to the sun-kissed shores of Greece with every bite. So roll up your sleeves and start layering this delicious pie—it’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection!