Ever wondered how to make those yummy spinach and cheese pies you see in the freezer section? They’re called spanakopita, and I’m going to show you how to make them at home. It’s easier than you think!
Here’s what we’ll cover:
- What spanakopita is and why homemade is better
- The simple ingredients you’ll need
- How to make the tasty filling
- Steps to fold the pies perfectly
- Tips for baking golden, crispy spanakopita
Ready to learn how to make these delicious Greek treats? Let’s get started!
What is Spanakopita and Why Make It at Home?
Spanakopita are Greek pies filled with spinach and cheese. They’re wrapped in flaky, crispy dough called phyllo. While you can buy them frozen, making them at home is way better. Here’s why:
- You know exactly what’s in them
- They taste fresher
- You can change how it tastes to make it just right for you
- It’s fun to make them yourself!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make spanakopita at home, you’ll need:
- Frozen spinach (thawed and drained)
- Feta cheese
- Red onions
- Garlic
- Dried dill
- Black pepper
- Fresh parsley
- Green onions
- Lemon zest
- Phyllo dough
- Olive oil
- Butter
Don’t worry if you don’t have everything. The most important ingredients are spinach, feta cheese, and phyllo dough.
Making the Flavorful Filling
Step 1: Cook the Onions and Garlic
- Heat some olive oil in a pan.
- Put chopped red onions in the pan. Cook them until they get soft and a bit clear.
- Put in the tiny pieces of garlic, the dried dill (it’s a green herb), and some ground black pepper.
- Mix everything around in the pan. Keep cooking for about 2 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when you can smell the yummy garlic and herbs!
Step 2: Add the Spinach
- Take frozen spinach that’s been thawed and drained.
- Add about 1 cup of packed spinach to the pan.
- Mix it well with the onion mixture.
Step 3: Mix in the Cheese and Herbs
- Turn off the heat.
- Add crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, sliced green onions, and lemon zest.
- Stir everything together.
Now your filling is ready!
Folding Perfect Spanakopita Triangles
Getting the Thin, Flaky Dough Ready
- Take the phyllo dough out of the freezer. Let it warm up and soften. The box it comes in will tell you how long this takes.
- Gently open the dough package. It’s like a roll of paper, so unfold it very slowly. The dough is super thin and can tear easily, so be extra careful!
- Cut it into strips about 2.5 to 3 inches wide.
Folding the Triangles
- Take a strip of the thin dough. Use a cooking brush to paint melted butter all over it. Make sure you cover the whole strip!
- Now, put another strip of the thin dough right on top of the first one. It’s like making a dough sandwich! Then, use your brush to paint more melted butter all over this new layer, too.
- Put a spoonful of filling at one end of the strip.
- Pick up the corner where you put the filling. Fold it over to the side like you’re making a paper airplane. This will make a triangle shape. Press it down gently with your fingers.
- Keep folding over and over until you reach the end of the strip.
- Place on a baking sheet and brush with more butter.
A few small tears in the dough are nothing to be concerned about. The butter will help stick it back together!
Baking Your Spanakopita
Photo Credit: freepik
- Before starting, turn on your oven and set the temperature to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC).
- Arrange the spanakopita triangles on a baking tray. Brush the tops with a little more butter.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until they’re golden brown and crispy.
Serving and Enjoying Your Homemade Spanakopita
Once your spanakopita is out of the oven and cooled a bit, they’re ready to eat! Here are some serving ideas:
- Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for extra flavor and color.
- These make excellent party finger foods or pre-dinner bites.
- Enjoy them as a light meal with a side salad.
The best part is biting into that crispy, flaky crust and tasting the yummy spinach and cheese inside. Yum!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Making spanakopita at home is fun and rewarding. Here’s why you should try it:
- It’s healthier than store-bought versions.
- You can make a big batch and freeze some for later.
- It’s a great way to eat more spinach.
- You’ll impress your friends and family with your cooking skills!
So, are you ready to try making your own crispy, cheesy spanakopita at home? It might seem tricky at first, but with a little practice, you’ll be a pro in no time!
Photo Credit: freepik