Greek Spanakopita

Spanakopita recipe traditional greek cuisine authentic culinary greece
Cooking Method
Cuisine ,
Category
Difficulty Advanced
Time
Preparation Time: 30 mins Cooking Time: 50 mins Resting Period: 15 mins Total Time: 1 hr 35 mins
Calorie 250 kcal
Best Time Spring
Ingredients
    For the Dough:
  • 500 g all purpose flour (4 cups)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 packet active dry yeast (7g or 2 1/4 tsp)
  • 250 ml warm water (1 cup)
  • 60 ml olive oil (1/4 cup)
  • For the Filling:
  • 1 kg fresh spinach (washed and chopped)
  • 1 large onion (finely chopped)
  • 4 spring onions (chopped)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 200 g feta cheese (7 oz)
  • 200 g ricotta cheese (7 oz)
  • 2 tbsp fresh dill (chopped)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
  • 3 eggs (beaten)
  • salt and pepper (to taste)
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
    Prepare the Dough:
  1. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
  3. Mix until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  5. Prepare the Filling:
  6. In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  7. Add the onions and garlic, sauté until soft and translucent.
  8. Add the spinach and cook until wilted and all the moisture has evaporated. Remove from heat and let it cool.
  9. In a large bowl, combine the cooled spinach mixture, crumbled feta cheese, ricotta cheese, dill, parsley, and beaten eggs. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  10. Assemble the Spanakopita:
  11. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  12. Divide the dough into two equal parts. Roll out one part on a floured surface to fit the bottom of your baking dish (about 9x13 inches).
  13. Place the rolled dough into the greased baking dish, pressing it up the sides.
  14. Spread the spinach filling evenly over the dough.
  15. Roll out the second part of the dough to fit over the top of the filling. Place it over the filling and pinch the edges together to seal.
  16. Cut a few small slits in the top of the dough to allow steam to escape.
  17. Bake the Spanakopita:
  18. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and cooked through.
  19. Serve:
  20. Allow the spanakopita to cool slightly before cutting it into pieces.
  21. Serve warm or at room temperature.
  22. Your homemade Spanakopita is ready. Kali orexi!