Introduction
Welcome to a delicious recipe for Crispy Greek Spinach & Feta Pie! This traditional Greek dish combines the earthy flavors of spinach and the tangy richness of feta cheese, all encased in a crispy phyllo pastry shell. Whether you’re looking for a hearty vegetarian main course or a savory appetizer, this spinach and feta pie is sure to impress your family and friends. Follow along to learn how to create this mouthwatering dish from scratch.
Ingredients
Before you begin making the Crispy Greek Spinach & Feta Pie, ensure you have the following ingredients ready:
– 1 pound fresh spinach
– 8 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 4 green onions, thinly sliced
Steps
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a large skillet, wilt the spinach over medium heat, then drain and chop it.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the spinach, feta cheese, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, dill, parsley, and green onions.
4. Layer phyllo sheets in the baking dish, brushing each sheet with melted butter.
5. Spread the spinach and cheese mixture over the phyllo sheets.
6. Continue layering phyllo sheets on top, brushing with butter between each layer.
7. Score the top layer of phyllo with a sharp knife to create serving portions.
8. Bake the pie for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Variations
Feel free to customize your Crispy Greek Spinach & Feta Pie with additional ingredients or variations:
– Add pine nuts or walnuts for extra crunch.
– Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of sweetness.
– Substitute the spinach with Swiss chard or kale for a different flavor profile.
– Experiment with different herbs like mint or oregano to enhance the dish.
Tips
Here are some tips to ensure your Crispy Greek Spinach & Feta Pie turns out perfectly:
– Thoroughly squeeze out excess water from the wilted spinach to prevent a soggy pie.
– Use good-quality feta cheese for maximum flavor impact.
– Brush each phyllo sheet generously with melted butter to achieve a crispy, golden crust.
– Allow the pie to cool slightly before serving to let the flavors meld together.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Crispy Greek Spinach & Feta Pie is a delightful dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of Greek cuisine. With its crispy phyllo pastry and savory spinach-feta filling, this pie is a true crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed as a main course or appetizer. Impress your guests with this traditional recipe that is both delicious and visually appealing. Give it a try in your kitchen and savor the Mediterranean flavors!
FAQs
Q: Can I make this pie ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the pie up to a day in advance, refrigerate it, and bake it when ready to serve.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Absolutely! Freeze the leftover slices in an airtight container and reheat them in the oven for a quick meal.
Q: Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
A: Yes, this Crispy Greek Spinach & Feta Pie is a perfect vegetarian option that is full of flavor and nutrients.
Crispy Greek Spinach & Feta Pie
A traditional Greek dish that combines the earthy flavors of spinach and the tangy richness of feta cheese, encased in a crispy phyllo pastry shell.
Ingredients
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1 pound fresh spinach
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8 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
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1/2 cup ricotta cheese
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1/2 cup chopped fresh dill
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1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
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4 green onions, thinly sliced
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1 package phyllo dough sheets
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1/2 cup melted butter
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a baking dish.
-
Wilt the spinach in a skillet over medium heat, then drain and chop it.
-
In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, feta cheese, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, dill, parsley, and green onions.
-
Layer phyllo sheets in the baking dish, brushing each sheet with melted butter.
-
Spread the spinach and cheese mixture over the phyllo sheets.
-
Continue layering phyllo sheets on top, brushing with butter between each layer.
-
Score the top layer of phyllo with a sharp knife to create serving portions.
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Bake the pie for 45-50 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
