Flaky Spinach Pie Spiral
Flaky Spinach Pie Spiral
introduction
Flaky Spinach Pie Spiral is a delicious and versatile dish that captures a delightful mix of flavors and textures. With its crispy, buttery layers of phyllo dough and a savory filling of spinach, feta, and herbs, this dish is not only nutritious but also perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking for a hearty snack, this spinach pie will charm your taste buds and impress your guests.
why make this recipe
This recipe for Flaky Spinach Pie Spiral is perfect for many reasons. First, it provides a great way to incorporate healthy greens into your diet. Spinach is packed with vitamins and minerals that are essential for your well-being. Additionally, feta cheese adds a creamy texture and rich flavor that complements the spinach beautifully. The use of fresh herbs like dill, parsley, and mint brings an aromatic touch that elevates this dish even further.
By opting for phyllo dough, you achieve a light and crispy exterior that contrasts perfectly with the soft and flavorful filling. Making Flaky Spinach Pie Spiral is not only easy but also allows for creativity. You can customize the filling according to your taste preferences or what you have on hand. This dish is great for sharing, making it an ideal choice for parties, picnics, or family dinners.
how to make Flaky Spinach Pie Spiral
Creating Flaky Spinach Pie Spiral is a straightforward process, and with a little preparation, you’ll have a stunning dish that everyone will love. Below are the detailed instructions to guide you through each step.
Ingredients:
- 1 package of phyllo dough
- 1 cup of spinach, chopped
- 1 cup of feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup of fresh herbs (dill, parsley, mint)
- 1/2 cup of melted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial as it ensures that the pie will bake evenly and turn golden.
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Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In a medium-sized pan, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat until the onion becomes translucent. This usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes. The aroma of the onions and garlic will fill your kitchen and set the stage for the delicious filling.
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Cook the Spinach: Add the chopped spinach to the pan and cook until the spinach is wilted. This should take just a couple of minutes. Make sure to stir frequently to combine the ingredients well. If you’re using frozen spinach, ensure it’s thawed and drained of excess moisture.
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Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed spinach mixture with the crumbled feta cheese, fresh herbs, and the beaten egg. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. This filling is not only tasty but also loaded with nutrients.
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Prepare the Phyllo Dough: Unroll the phyllo dough carefully on a clean, flat surface. It can be delicate, so handle it gently. Brush the first sheet with melted butter, then lay another sheet on top. Repeat this process for a total of three sheets. This layering creates a flaky texture once baked.
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Shape the Pie: After layering, spread a portion of the filling along one edge of the phyllo dough. Roll the dough tightly from the edge with the filling, forming a spiral. You can tuck in the ends to create a neat shape.
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Prepare for Baking: Place the rolled spiral onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the top with additional melted butter to help it achieve that beautiful golden color during baking.
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Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and when it turns golden brown and flaky, take it out. The smell will be irresistible!
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Cool and Slice: Allow the Flaky Spinach Pie Spiral to cool slightly before slicing it into pieces. This waiting time helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
how to serve Flaky Spinach Pie Spiral
Flaky Spinach Pie Spiral is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. You can present it as an appetizer, a side dish, or even as a main course. Cut the pie into slices or spirals and arrange them on a platter. Serving options include a simple garnish of fresh herbs or a side of yogurt or tzatziki for dipping.
To elevate your serving, consider putting it alongside a fresh salad. A simple salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and a drizzle of olive oil balances the richness of the pastry. This pairing makes for a beautiful and fulfilling meal! For a warm serving, enjoy it right out of the oven or allow it to cool slightly to maintain its flakiness.
how to store Flaky Spinach Pie Spiral
Storing Flaky Spinach Pie Spiral is simple. Once it’s completely cooled, you can wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. For best results, store it in the refrigerator if you plan to eat it within a few days. Alternatively, you can freeze it for longer storage.
If you’re freezing it, make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn. To reheat, bake it in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through and crispy again. This way, you can enjoy the delightful taste of the spinach pie even after a few days.
tips to make Flaky Spinach Pie Spiral
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Layering with Care: When working with phyllo dough, keep the unused sheets covered with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out. It’s essential to work quickly and efficiently.
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Texture Variation: If you enjoy a variety of textures, consider adding other ingredients to the filling. You might include sautéed mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or even some nuts for added crunch and flavor.
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Adjusting Spices: Feel free to adjust the seasoning in the filling to suit your taste. Adding spices such as a pinch of nutmeg can create a warm, comforting flavor that pairs well with spinach and feta.
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Herb Choices: Experiment with different herbs according to your preference or availability. Fresh basil or oregano can offer a beautiful twist to the traditional flavor profile.
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Serving Warm: Flaky Spinach Pie Spiral is best enjoyed warm. If serving at a party, consider warming it slightly in the oven just before guests arrive to enhance aroma and taste.
variation
Flaky Spinach Pie Spiral can easily be adapted to fit various tastes. Here are a few variations to consider:
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Meat Option: For a heartier dish, add ground meat to the filling. Cooked ground beef, lamb, or chicken combined with spinach and cheese could create a completely different experience.
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Cheese Varieties: Swap feta cheese with ricotta or cottage cheese for a different flavor profile. You could also mix different cheeses for an extra cheesy filling.
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Vegan Alternative: To make a vegan version of this pie, substitute the feta with tofu or a vegan cheese alternative. Use a flaxseed egg replacement instead of the beaten egg and brush with olive oil instead of melted butter.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen spinach for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach instead of fresh. Just ensure that it is well thawed and drained of excess moisture before adding it to the filling. This will prevent the filling from becoming too watery.
2. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and assemble the pie a day before, keeping it covered in the refrigerator. Bake it just before serving to enjoy it freshly baked and warm.
3. What if I don’t have phyllo dough?
If phyllo dough is not available, you can use puff pastry as an alternative. It will create a different texture, but the result will still be delicious.
4. How can I make the pie spicier?
For a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the filling. Adjust the amount to suit your taste preference.
5. How long can I store leftover pie?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, place it in the oven until warmed through to restore some of the flakiness.
By following this simple recipe for Flaky Spinach Pie Spiral, you can create a flavorful dish that is sure to impress. With its flaky layers and savory filling, it’s a recipe worth adding to your cooking rotation. Enjoy your cooking and the delicious results!
PrintFlaky Spinach Pie Spiral
A delightful mix of flaky phyllo dough filled with spinach, feta, and herbs, perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 package of phyllo dough
- 1 cup of spinach, chopped
- 1 cup of feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup of fresh herbs (dill, parsley, mint)
- 1/2 cup of melted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a medium-sized pan, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat until translucent, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Add the chopped spinach to the pan and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed spinach mixture with crumbled feta cheese, fresh herbs, and beaten egg. Season with salt and pepper.
- Unroll the phyllo dough and brush the first sheet with melted butter. Lay another sheet on top and repeat for three layers.
- Spread a portion of the filling along one edge of the phyllo dough and roll tightly into a spiral.
- Place the rolled spiral on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the top with melted butter.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and flaky.
- Allow to cool slightly before slicing into pieces.
Notes
This dish can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or main course. Enjoy warm with yogurt or tzatziki.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg