Spinach pie

Spanakopita: Greek Spinach and Wild Garlic Pie

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Who doesn’t love the enticing aroma of a pie baking in the oven? Spanakopita is a classic recipe from Mediterranean cuisine that transforms simple ingredients into pure delight. This spinach and wild garlic pie is not only delicious but also healthy, packed with nutrients and flavors. It’s perfect as an appetizer or a main dish. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!

Ingredients Needed

- 200 g baby spinach (fresh or frozen)
- 100 g wild garlic (ramsons)
- 180 g sweet cheese (or cottage cheese)
- 100 g feta cheese (or goat cheese)
- 3 eggs
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
- 1 package of strudel sheets (approximately 250 g)
- 100 g sour cream (for added creaminess)

Ingredient Details:

- Baby spinach: Choose fresh, tender leaves that are rich in vitamins and minerals. Spinach is an excellent source of iron and antioxidants. You can also use frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and drain it well.

- Wild garlic: This aromatic plant adds a unique flavor and a pleasant subtle garlic note. If you can’t find ramsons, you can use regular garlic, but reduce the amount as it is stronger.

- Sweet cheese and feta: Combining these cheeses provides a perfect contrast between creamy and salty. If you prefer, you can use cottage cheese or goat cheese, depending on your taste.

- Strudel sheets: These are very thin and bake perfectly, providing a crispy texture. If you don’t have strudel sheets, you can use phyllo pastry instead.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 190 °C with fan or 210 °C without fan. This step is essential for achieving a perfectly crispy crust.

2. Prepare the ingredients:
- Wash the spinach and wild garlic thoroughly, then dry them by patting with a clean towel. If using frozen spinach, ensure it is thawed and drained.
- Chop the spinach and wild garlic coarsely. Don’t chop too finely, as we want to maintain a pleasant texture.
- In a large bowl, beat the 3 eggs. Add the sweet cheese, crumbled feta, freshly ground pepper, and mix well.

3. Mixing the ingredients:
- Add the chopped spinach and wild garlic to the egg and cheese mixture. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.

4. Assembling the pie:
- Take one strudel sheet and lightly brush it with sour cream. Place another sheet on top and repeat the process with one more sheet.
- On the edge of the sheets, add a portion of the spinach and cheese filling, then gently roll the sheets to form a pie. You can place them in a baking dish.

5. Baking:
- Once you have filled the dish, brush the top of the pie with sour cream to achieve a golden and crispy crust.
- Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes or until golden and crispy.

6. Serving:
- Once the pie is ready, let it cool for a few minutes before cutting it into portions. Serve warm, alongside a fresh green salad or a yogurt sauce with dill.

Helpful Tips

- Variations: You can add other vegetables, such as zucchini or grated carrots, to diversify the filling. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, like sheep cheese or blue cheese, for a more intense flavor.

- Storage: If you have leftover pie, you can keep it in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat it in the oven to restore its crispy texture.

- Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other herbs? Yes, you can add dill or parsley for extra flavor.
- How can I make the pie lighter? Use phyllo pastry instead of strudel sheets and reduce the amount of cheese.
- Is this recipe vegetarian? Yes, it is completely vegetarian and full of nutrients!

Nutritional Benefits

Spinach is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, being rich in antioxidants. Wild garlic provides benefits for the immune system, while the cheeses offer calcium and protein. This dish is not only delicious but also healthy, perfect for an active lifestyle.

Recommended Pairings

Spanakopita pairs wonderfully with a glass of dry white wine or freshly squeezed lemonade. Additionally, a Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives will perfectly complement this dish.

A Personal Note

When I started making spanakopita for the first time, I was reminded of the days spent in my grandmother's garden, where I would pick fresh herbs. This recipe is not just a simple pie; it is a tribute to the traditions and flavors that unite us. I hope you enjoy every bite of this pie as much as I do!

Now, you have all the information you need to prepare a delicious spanakopita. Step into the kitchen, gather your ingredients, and let the Mediterranean flavors inspire you! Bon appétit!