Easy Greek Spinach Pie Recipe: A Delicious Spanakopita for All Occasions

Greek cuisine is renowned for its fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and deep-rooted traditions. Among the many culinary gems Greece has to offer, Spanakopitao Greek Spinach Pie, holds a special place. This flaky, savory pie made with spinach, herbs, feta cheese, and crispy layers of phyllo dough is not just a delicious treat—it’s a comforting reminder of Mediterranean home cooking.

Whether you’re looking for an easy Greek spinach recipe to try for dinner, or you’re on the hunt for a low calorie spanakopita alternative, this article will walk you through everything you need to know about making this delightful dish. From a breakdown of classic spanakopita ingredients to variations like spanakopita casserole, we’ve got you covered.

What Is Spanakopita?

Spanakopita is a traditional Greek savory pie made primarily with spinach, feta cheese, and herbs, encased in crispy layers of phyllo dough. It can be made as a large pie sliced into squares or triangles, or as small hand pies. In Greek, the name “spanakopita” comes from “spanaki” (spinach) and “pita” (pie).

This dish is both flavorful and versatile, often served as an appetizer, snack, or main course. It’s also a go-to option for vegetarians seeking hearty, flavorful meals. Thanks to its healthy ingredients, it’s easy to adapt spanakopita recipes to suit various dietary needs.

Why You’ll Love This Greek Spinach Pie Recipe

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this Greek spinach pie recipe:

✅ Simple to make with easy-to-find ingredients
✅ Healthy and satisfying, packed with greens and protein
✅ Perfect for meal prep—it reheats and freezes beautifully
✅ A crowd-pleaser at parties and potlucks
✅ Adaptable into various forms like spanakopita casserole o low calorie spanakopita

Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting a gathering, or simply looking for a wholesome lunch or dinner idea, spanakopita fits the bill perfectly. Plus, the aroma of fresh herbs, feta cheese, and buttery phyllo filling your kitchen is an added bonus.

Spanakopita Ingredients

The beauty of spanakopita lies in its simplicity. You only need a few staple ingredients to create a truly authentic and flavorful dish. Here are the essential spanakopita ingredients you’ll need:

1. Spinach

The star of the dish. Fresh baby spinach or frozen spinach can be used. If using frozen, ensure it’s thoroughly thawed and squeezed dry to prevent sogginess. Some cooks also like to add wild greens or a mix of kale and spinach for a bolder flavor profile.

2. Feta Cheese

The salty, tangy bite of feta cheese gives the pie its signature Greek flavor. Use authentic Greek feta if available. Some variations also include ricotta or cottage cheese for creaminess, but feta remains the classic choice.

3. Phyllo Dough

Also known as filo pastry, these thin, flaky sheets create the crisp, golden layers in the pie. For best results, thaw the phyllo in the fridge overnight and handle it gently to avoid tearing.

4. Herbs and Aromatics

Fresh dill, parsley, and green onions are commonly used to enhance flavor. You can also include a hint of nutmeg or oregano for added depth. These herbs give the filling a burst of freshness and complexity.

5. Los huevos

Eggs help bind the filling together and contribute to a creamy texture. They also help the pie set properly when baked, making it easier to cut and serve.

6. Olive Oil or Butter

Used for brushing the phyllo layers to achieve a golden, crunchy crust. Olive oil adds a rich Mediterranean flavor, while butter offers a more decadent finish. You can also use a blend of both.

How To Make Spanakopita

If you’re wondering how to make spanakopita, rest assured—it’s easier than it looks! Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you master this classic Greek spinach pie recipe.

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Sauté aromatics: In a large pan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil and sauté chopped green onions until soft.
Add spinach: Add fresh spinach in batches, cooking until wilted. If using frozen spinach, make sure it’s already thawed and squeezed dry.
Mix herbs and cheese: Remove from heat and stir in chopped dill, parsley, crumbled feta, and lightly beaten eggs. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.

Step 2: Prepare the Phyllo

Unroll the phyllo dough and cover with a damp towel to keep it from drying out.
Grease a baking dish with olive oil or butter.
Layer about 6–8 sheets of phyllo on the bottom, brushing each with oil.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

Spread the spinach filling evenly over the phyllo base.
Top with another 6–8 sheets of phyllo, brushing each with oil.
Tuck in the edges and score the top layer into squares or triangles for easy slicing later.

Step 4: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake for 45–50 minutes or until the top is golden and crispy.
Let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Tips for Perfect Phyllo Spanakopita

Hacer phyllo spanakopita might seem intimidating, but these tips can make the process foolproof:

Keep phyllo covered: It dries out quickly. Work fast and always keep unused sheets under a damp towel.
Use quality feta: Authentic Greek feta gives the best flavor and texture.
Don’t overfill: A thick filling can make the pie soggy and difficult to cook through.
Score before baking: This helps prevent the top from cracking and makes slicing easier.
Cool before slicing: Let the pie sit for 10-15 minutes to firm up before cutting.

Making Spanakopita Casserole

If handling delicate phyllo layers sounds daunting, consider making a spanakopita casserole. This deconstructed version is just as delicious and even easier to prepare:

Prepare the spinach-feta filling as usual.
Mix in torn pieces of phyllo dough or layer them loosely on top.
Bake in a casserole dish until golden and bubbly.

It’s a fantastic shortcut when you want spanakopita recipes easy and family-friendly. It’s also a great way to use leftover filling or phyllo that may be broken or torn.

Low Calorie Spanakopita: A Lighter Take

Traditional spanakopita can be rich, especially with generous use of butter and cheese. But you can easily create a low calorie spanakopita without sacrificing flavor.

Healthy Swaps:

Use less cheese or opt for low-fat feta.
Swap butter for olive oil spray to cut down on fat.
Use fewer phyllo layers, focusing only on the top and bottom.
Bulk up with more greens, like kale or chard, for added nutrients.
Add protein by including egg whites or tofu.

This version still delivers on taste but fits more comfortably into calorie-conscious meal plans. It’s ideal for those watching their weight or wanting a lighter Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Spanakopita Variations

The beauty of Greek spinach pie recipes is that they welcome creativity. Here are a few fun and tasty twists:

1. Mini Spanakopita Triangles

Perfect for parties or snacks, these bite-sized pies are made by folding phyllo sheets into triangles with filling inside. Bake until golden and serve with dipping sauces like tzatziki or yogurt dill sauce.

2. Vegan Spanakopita

Skip the cheese and eggs and use tofu or vegan cheese, plus sautéed onions, lemon juice, and nutritional yeast for flavor. Use olive oil or plant-based butter for brushing the phyllo.

3. Gluten-Free Spanakopita

Use gluten-free pastry or create a crustless version by baking the spinach-feta mixture as a frittata-style pie. Great for those with gluten intolerance.

4. Spanakopita Muffins

Bake the filling in muffin tins lined with phyllo for portable, portion-controlled snacks. These are perfect for lunchboxes or brunch spreads.

5. Rustic Spanakopita Galette

Use homemade or store-bought pie crust instead of phyllo for a rustic twist. Fold the edges over the filling and bake until crisp.

Why Spanakopita Is a Great Make-Ahead Meal

One of the many advantages of Greek spinach pie is that it stores and reheats beautifully:

Refrigerador: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Congelador: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 3 months.
Recalentar: Use an oven or air fryer for best results—this keeps the phyllo crispy.

This makes it a perfect addition to your weekly meal prep or for stashing in the freezer for busy days.

Spanakopita and Greek Culture

Spanakopita isn’t just food—it’s a tradition. In Greece, it’s common to find it in bakeries, family gatherings, and even breakfast tables. The use of simple, local ingredients reflects the heart of Greek spinach recipes—minimalism, freshness, and love for the land.

Greek grandmothers often pass down their spanakopita recipes from generation to generation, each with its own subtle differences. Whether served warm from the oven or packed for a picnic, spanakopita embodies the hospitality and heart of Greek cooking.

Sugerencias Para Servir

Wondering what to serve with spinach spanakopita? It pairs beautifully with:

Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta
Tzatziki or hummus as a dip
Lentil soup or avgolemono (egg-lemon soup)
Grilled meats like chicken souvlaki for a hearty meal

It also makes a wonderful brunch item alongside scrambled eggs and fresh fruit. A glass of chilled white wine or ouzo completes the Greek culinary experience.

Reflexiones Finales

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner exploring Greek spinach recipes, this easy Greek spinach pie recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen. Its savory flavor, flaky crust, and nutritious filling make it a winning dish for every occasion.

From classic phyllo spanakopita to convenient spanakopita casserole or even low calorie spanakopita, there’s a version to suit every taste and dietary need.

So next time you’re craving something wholesome and comforting, try your hand at making this delicious spinach spanakopita. You’ll be embracing the rich traditions of Greek cuisine—one flaky bite at a time.

Preguntas Frecuentes

Can I make spanakopita ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble it a day in advance and bake it just before serving. It also freezes well both before and after baking.

What if I don’t have phyllo dough?

Try making a crustless version or using puff pastry for a different texture.

Is spanakopita healthy?

Absolutely! Especially if you make a low calorie spanakopita, it’s a great source of fiber, protein, and vitamins.

Can I use other greens?

Yes! Kale, chard, or arugula can be mixed with or used in place of spinach for variety.

Whether for a weeknight meal, holiday spread, or potluck favorite, this Greek spinach pie recipe is bound to become a staple in your home. Try it today and enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean from your own kitchen.