As the sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm glow in my kitchen, I find myself craving something special. That’s when I turn to my go-to recipe: the Flaky Spanakopita Spiral. This dish brings the essence of Mediterranean cuisine right to my table—a delightful mashup of crispy, flaky filo pastry and a luscious filling of spinach, feta, and aromatic herbs.
Imagine the satisfying crunch as you bite into its golden exterior, giving way to a warm, creamy interior that’s bursting with flavor. It’s a dish that not only dazzles the eyes but also satisfies the soul, whether I’m hosting friends for a cozy dinner or simply treating myself to a well-deserved indulgence.
What I love most is how adaptable this recipe is. You can prepare it in miniature triangles for an elegant appetizer or stick with the classic spiral for that stunning aesthetic. Best of all, it’s straightforward to whip up ahead of time, making entertaining feel effortless. Let’s dive in and create some kitchen magic with this irresistible Spanakopita Spiral!
Why is Flaky Spanakopita Spiral a Must-Try?
Crispy, Flaky Perfection: Each bite brings a delightful crunch, thanks to the expertly layered filo pastry.
Creamy Filling Bliss: The savory mixture of spinach, feta, and herbs creates an irresistible, mouth-watering experience.
Customizable Delight: Make mini triangles for a fancy appetizer or stick with the show-stopping spiral—either way, you win!
Quick and Easy: A straightforward recipe you can prep ahead, perfect for stress-free entertaining.
Crowd-Pleaser: This dish brings smiles and satisfaction, making it ideal for gatherings. You’ll want to share this with everyone you know!
Flaky Spanakopita Spiral Ingredients
For the Filling
- Spinach – 1 – 1½ lbs (350 g). A nutrient-packed base ingredient; remember to squeeze out excess moisture for the best texture.
- Onion – 1 medium (chopped). Adds a natural sweetness that complements the filling wonderfully.
- Garlic – 2 large cloves. This aromatic staple enhances the dish’s flavor with a touch of bitterness.
- Kosher Salt – ½ tsp. Essential for highlighting all the flavors in the filling.
- Black Pepper – ½ tsp. Provides a mild heat that balances the richness of the cheese.
- Lemon Juice – 1 tbsp. Brightens the filling and adds depth to the savory elements.
- Goat Cheese – ½ cup (113 g, cream or feta). Offers creaminess and a bit of tang for a delightful flavor profile.
- Feta Cheese – 1½ cups (225 g). The classic choice for authentic Spanakopita flavor.
- Cheddar Cheese – ½ cup (60 g, grated). Introduces a sharp contrast that rounds out the filling beautifully.
- Egg – 1 large. Acts as a binder, holding the filling together.
- Parsley – 1 cup. Freshens the mixture and adds a pop of color.
- Pine Nuts – ½ cup (67.5 g, toasted). Adds a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that enhances each bite.
- Nutmeg – ⅛ tsp (pinch). A pinch of this classic spice brings warmth and richness to the filling.
For the Pastry
- Filo Pastry – 16 sheets (304 g). The key to creating that irresistible flaky exterior.
- Olive Oil – ½ cup (120 ml) or melted butter. Essential for flavor and achieving that gorgeous golden brown finish.
How to Make Flaky Spanakopita Spiral
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Prep the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it nice and hot, ensuring even cooking for that perfect golden finish.
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Cook Spinach: Sauté the chopped onion and garlic in olive oil over medium heat until translucent. Add the spinach until just wilted, season with salt and pepper, then drain any excess liquid for a perfect filling.
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Mix Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach mixture with goat cheese, feta, cheddar, egg, parsley, nutmeg, pine nuts, and a splash of lemon juice. Mix well until everything is nicely incorporated.
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Assemble Pastry: Brush a 9-inch pie pan with olive oil. Layer the filo sheets, brushing each with olive oil. Add the filling in sections and roll them into a spiral shape to create a beautiful presentation.
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Finish Assembly: Coil the rolled pastries within the pan, tucking in the edges neatly. Don’t forget to brush the top with olive oil for that shiny, crispy finish!
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Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow it to cool slightly before serving to enjoy the best texture.
Optional: Serve with tzatziki sauce for a refreshing contrast.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Flaky Spanakopita Spiral?
As you gather around the table, let the delightful flavors of the Flaky Spanakopita Spiral inspire a delicious spread that brings everyone together.
- Tzatziki Sauce: A cool, creamy dip made with yogurt and cucumbers balances the savory filling, bringing a refreshing note to every bite.
- Greek Salad: This vibrant mix of fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta offers a burst of color and a crunchy texture that complements the richness of the pastry.
- Roasted Vegetables: Lightly seasoned carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers roasted until golden provide a sweet contrast, enhancing the Mediterranean flavors of the dish.
- Lemon Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice infused with lemon zests offers a light and tangy side, perfectly harmonizing with the lush filling of your spanakopita.
- Stuffed Grape Leaves: These savory bites of vine leaves wrapped around rice and herbs create an authentic Greek experience, pairing beautifully with the flaky pastry.
- Herbal Tea or Rosé Wine: Serve a delicate herbal tea or a chilled rosé to elevate your meal; both drinks refresh the palate and enhance the dining experience.
- Baklava: Satisfy your sweet tooth with this heavenly dessert of layered filo, nuts, and honey, providing a lovely end to a Mediterranean feast.
Invite your loved ones to indulge in these delightful pairings and create a memorable meal centered around the Flaky Spanakopita Spiral.
Flaky Spanakopita Spiral Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and personalize it to your heart’s content!
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Herb-Infused: Add fresh dill or mint to the filling for an aromatic twist that brightens the flavor profile.
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Cheese Blend: Mix different cheeses like ricotta or cream cheese for a creamier texture and diverse flavor.
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Veggie Boost: Incorporate mushrooms or bell peppers into the filling for added texture and a bit of sweetness.
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Nutty Crunch: Substitute pine nuts with walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor and texture contrast.
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Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle heat that’ll excite your taste buds.
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Whole Wheat: Use whole wheat filo pastry for a healthier option that adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber.
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Vegan Delight: Replace cheese with tofu and use a flax egg to make this dish suitable for a plant-based diet.
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Greens Galore: Swap spinach for other leafy greens like kale, Swiss chard, or collard greens for a unique flavor and vibrant color.
Each of these variations not only brings a fun twist to your Flaky Spanakopita Spiral but also invites opportunities for you to explore new flavors and textures in your cooking!
Make Ahead Options
These Flaky Spanakopita Spirals are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply prepare your filling, layer the filo pastry, and roll them into spirals, then cover tightly with plastic wrap before placing in the fridge. Alternatively, you can freeze the assembled spirals for up to 3 months; just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. Once ready to serve, preheat your oven and bake straight from the fridge or after thawing until golden, ensuring a crispy texture that remains just as delicious!
How to Store and Freeze Flaky Spanakopita Spiral
Fridge: Store any leftover Flaky Spanakopita Spiral in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Enjoy cold or reheat in the oven to restore its flaky texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the baked Spanakopita in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, place the thawed Spanakopita in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through and the pastry is crisp again.
Make-Ahead: You can assemble the Flaky Spanakopita Spiral in advance and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve for a fresh, warm dish.
Expert Tips for Flaky Spanakopita Spiral
Handle Filo with Care: Keep your filo dough covered with a damp cloth while working to prevent it from drying out and cracking.
Squeeze Spinach Well: Ensure you remove as much moisture as possible from the cooked spinach to avoid a soggy filling in your Flaky Spanakopita Spiral.
Use Generous Oil or Butter: Don’t skimp on the olive oil or melted butter when layering the filo; this ensures that your pastry becomes beautifully flaky and golden.
Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on your Spanakopita while baking; you want it golden brown without burning. Every oven is different, so adjust as needed!
Experiment with Filling: Feel free to mix in your favorite herbs or extra cheeses to customize the flavor of your filling—it’s all about making the Flaky Spanakopita Spiral your own!
Flaky Spanakopita Spiral Recipe FAQs
What type of spinach should I use for my Flaky Spanakopita Spiral?
You can use fresh spinach for the best flavor and texture. If you opt for frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture thoroughly to prevent a soggy filling.
How should I store leftover Flaky Spanakopita Spiral?
Store any leftover Spanakopita in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy it warm, reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until it’s heated through and the pastry is crispy.
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Can I freeze Flaky Spanakopita Spiral?
Absolutely! For freezing, wrap the baked Spanakopita tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes to restore its flakiness.
What should I do if my filo pastry keeps tearing while I assemble my Flaky Spanakopita Spiral?
Don’t worry—it’s a common issue! Make sure to keep the filo sheets covered with a damp cloth while you work. If you encounter tears, you can patch them up by overlapping a small piece over the tear, or simply proceed with assembly since the layers will still create that lovely flaky texture when baked.
Is Flaky Spanakopita Spiral suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, this dish is vegetarian since it features a filling of spinach and cheese. However, for those with specific dietary restrictions or preferences, such as dairy-free, you can substitute the cheeses with plant-based alternatives and still achieve a delicious result.
How far in advance can I prepare the Flaky Spanakopita Spiral?
You can assemble your Spanakopita up to 24 hours in advance and store it unbaked in the fridge. This makes it perfect for entertaining—you can enjoy more time with your guests while knowing your dish is ready to go when you are!
Discover the Magic of Flaky Spanakopita Spiral Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sauté the chopped onion and garlic in olive oil over medium heat until translucent. Add the spinach until just wilted, season with salt and pepper, then drain any excess liquid.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach mixture with goat cheese, feta, cheddar, egg, parsley, nutmeg, pine nuts, and lemon juice. Mix well.
- Brush a 9-inch pie pan with olive oil. Layer filo sheets, brushing each with olive oil, add filling in sections, and roll into a spiral.
- Coil the rolled pastries in the pan, tucking in edges and brushing the top with olive oil.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
