Spanakopita Spiral

Have you ever marveled at the perfectly flaky layers of the spanakopita spiral? This delightful pastry is not only a feast for the eyes but also offers a burst of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, preparing a family meal, or simply treating yourself, the spanakopita spiral is sure to impress. With its crispy texture and rich filling, this dish stands out on any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spinach and cheese creates a savory filling that is both satisfying and flavorful.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light main course—ideal for any occasion.
• Impressive Presentation: The spiral shape makes for a visually stunning dish that will wow your guests.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare in advance and bake just before serving for ultimate convenience.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the preparation smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• 9-inch pie pan (or 9×13 baking dish)
• Pastry brush
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Essential for sautéing vegetables to enhance their flavors before mixing them with other ingredients.
• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all filling ingredients evenly without mess.
• Pastry brush: Perfect for applying oil or butter on phyllo layers to ensure a crispy finish.
• Knife: Necessary for cutting the finished pastry into appealing portions for serving.

Ingredients

To create this delicious spanakopita spiral, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Filling Ingredients

• 1 – 1½ lbs Spinach
• 1 med Onion (chopped)
• 2 large Garlic cloves
• ½ tsp Kosher salt
• ½ tsp Black pepper powder
• 1 tbsp Lemon juice
• ½ cup Goat cheese (cream or feta)
• 1½ cup Feta cheese
• ½ cup Cheddar cheese (grated)
• 1 large Egg
• 1 cup Parsley
• ½ cup Pine nuts (toasted)
• ⅛ tsp pinch of nutmeg

Pastry Ingredients

• 16 sheets Filo pastry
• ½ cup Olive oil (or melted butter)

How to Make Spanakopita Spiral

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F /190°C/ Gas mark 5 and gather all the necessary ingredients for your spanakopita. Make sure to thaw your frozen spinach beforehand and drain any excess liquid.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
* Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they become translucent and fragrant.
* Add the spinach to the skillet; cook until it wilts down, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper.
* Add lemon juice. Cook on high until all the liquid evaporates from the pan.

Step 3: Prepare Filling

Transfer cooked spinach mixture to a large bowl and let it cool for a few minutes.
* Crumble in the goat cheese, feta cheese, cheddar cheese, beaten egg, parsley, nutmeg, salt, pepper, and pine nuts.
* Mix everything until well combined; set aside.

Step 4: Assemble Spanakopita

Take your pie pan (or baking dish) and brush the bottom with olive oil.
Place two layers of filo pastry on a work surface and brush with melted butter.
Spread about four tablespoons of spinach filling over the top layer of phyllo dough while leaving a 2-inch border on all sides. Roll from one end into a long tube.

Step 5: Create Spiral Shape

Place the filled roll into the pie pan and coil it to form a spiral shape.
Continue with remaining pastry sheets and filling; work from the center outwards until full.
Tuck any excess phyllo around edges for neatness.

Step 6: Bake

Brush top layer generously with olive oil for a golden crispy crust.
Bake in preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown and filling is set.
Once baked, remove from oven and let cool before cutting into squares or triangles.

This spanakopita spiral will surely be a hit at any meal! Enjoy every bite of its deliciousness!

How to Serve Spanakopita Spiral

Spanakopita spiral is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether as an appetizer or part of a meal, there are several serving suggestions to enhance its flavor and presentation.

With Fresh Salad

• A crisp green salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette perfectly complements the rich flavors of spanakopita.

As Part of a Mezze Platter

• Serve the spanakopita alongside hummus, olives, and stuffed grape leaves for a delightful Mediterranean experience.

Dipped in Yogurt Sauce

• A simple yogurt sauce with herbs can add a refreshing touch to each bite of the crispy pastry.

Accompanied by Roasted Vegetables

• Pairing with seasonal roasted vegetables adds color and nutrition to your meal while balancing the richness of the cheese filling.

With Lemon Wedge

• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before eating brightens the dish and enhances its flavors.

As a Snack on Its Own

• The flaky layers make spanakopita spiral an excellent choice for snacking any time of day, served warm or at room temperature.

How to Perfect Spanakopita Spiral

Creating the perfect spanakopita spiral involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your pastry turns out beautifully every time.

• Use Fresh Spinach – Fresh spinach provides better texture and flavor compared to frozen. Make sure it’s well washed and dried.

• Thaw Filo Pastry Properly – Always thaw your filo pastry overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for even layering and easier handling.

• Layer Generously – Don’t skimp on the olive oil between layers. This helps achieve that desired flakiness when baked.

• Avoid Overfilling – While it’s tempting to pack in more filling, too much can cause the pastry to tear during baking.

• Preheat Your Oven – Ensuring your oven is at the right temperature allows for even cooking and browning of your spanakopita.

• Brush Before Baking – A good brush of olive oil on top before baking guarantees a crispy, golden crust.

Best Side Dishes for Spanakopita Spiral

Looking for side dishes that pair well with spanakopita spiral? Here are some great options that complement its flavors beautifully.

1. Tzatziki – A refreshing yogurt-based dip made with cucumber and garlic, ideal for balancing the richness of the pastry.
2. Greek Salad – Crisp vegetables tossed with feta cheese and olives create a vibrant accompaniment that brightens up your plate.
3. Roasted Bell Peppers – Sweet roasted bell peppers add color and sweetness, enhancing your dining experience.
4. Chickpea Salad – A protein-packed salad with chickpeas, herbs, and spices is filling while providing complementary flavors.
5. Grilled Eggplant – Smoky grilled eggplant slices bring depth to your meal, pairing wonderfully with the flaky pastry.
6. Stuffed Grape Leaves – These savory bites filled with rice and herbs offer a delightful contrast in texture when served alongside spanakopita.
7. Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl – Light yet hearty, this bowl combines quinoa with fresh vegetables for a nutritious side dish option.
8. Sautéed Green Beans – Quick sautéed green beans with garlic provide crunch and freshness that balance out the richness of spanakopita spiral.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating the perfect spanakopita spiral can be a challenge. To help you succeed, here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Using wet spinach – Excess moisture can make your pastry soggy. Make sure to thoroughly drain any water from thawed spinach before cooking.
• Not seasoning adequately – Flavor is key in spanakopita. Don’t skip the salt, pepper, and lemon juice; these ingredients enhance the filling’s taste.
• Skipping the cooling step – Adding warm filling to phyllo can lead to a soggy texture. Allow your spinach mixture to cool before layering it with the pastry.
• Overfilling the pastry – Too much filling can cause leaks when baking. Be sure to leave a 2-inch border when spreading your filling.
• Neglecting olive oil – Failing to brush olive oil between layers of phyllo will result in less flaky pastry. Generously layer oil for optimal crispiness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Spanakopita will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Spanakopita Spiral

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Spanakopita Spiral

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C), bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat on medium power in short bursts, checking frequently; this may soften the pastry.
• Stovetop – Place in a pan over low heat, covering it with a lid, and heat until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about making spanakopita spirals.

What is a Spanakopita Spiral?

A spanakopita spiral is a Greek pastry made of layers of phyllo dough filled with a savory mixture of spinach and cheese, rolled into a spiral shape.

How long does it take to make Spanakopita Spiral?

The total time for preparing spanakopita spiral is approximately 45 minutes, including prep and cooking time.

Can I make Spanakopita Spiral ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator or freezer until you’re ready to bake.

What can I substitute for goat cheese in Spanakopita Spiral?

You can use additional feta cheese or ricotta as an alternative if you’re looking for different flavors or textures.

Is Spanakopita Spiral suitable for vegetarian diets?

Yes! This recipe is primarily plant-based with cheese, making it suitable for vegetarian diets.

Final Thoughts

The spanakopita spiral is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize the filling with various herbs or vegetables according to your taste. Whether served as an appetizer or side dish, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Give it a try!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Spanakopita Spiral

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8

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Description

Looking for a delicious and visually stunning dish to impress your guests? The Spanakopita Spiral is a delightful Greek pastry that combines layers of flaky phyllo dough with a savory filling of spinach, cheese, and aromatic herbs. This versatile dish can serve as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light main course. Easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, the Spanakopita Spiral is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Whether enjoyed warm or at room temperature, this mouthwatering treat is packed with flavor and elegance, making it an ideal addition to gatherings or family meals.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 – 1½ lbs fresh spinach
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 2 large garlic cloves (minced)
• ½ cup goat cheese (or additional feta)
• 1½ cups feta cheese
• ½ cup cheddar cheese (grated)
• 16 sheets of phyllo pastry
• Olive oil (for brushing)
• ½ tsp kosher salt
• ½ tsp black pepper powder
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 cup parsley
• ½ cup pine nuts (toasted)
• ⅛ tsp pinch of nutmeg

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until translucent, then add spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
3. Transfer to a mixing bowl and let cool slightly before adding cheeses, parsley, nutmeg, and pine nuts. Mix well.
4. Brush a pie pan with olive oil. Layer two sheets of phyllo pastry on your work surface, brushing each layer with olive oil. Spread filling over the top layer and roll into a tube.
5. Coil the filled tube into the pie pan, continuing with remaining pastry and filling until complete.
6. Brush the top with olive oil and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Appetizer/Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 125g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 420mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 45mg