Spanakopita Bites are a delightful and savory appetizer inspired by the classic Greek dish, Spanakopita. Traditionally, Spanakopita is a spinach and feta pie wrapped in delicate layers of phyllo dough. This recipe transforms the beloved classic into bite-sized portions, making it perfect for parties, gatherings, or simply as a snack. The combination of flaky, golden-brown phyllo pastry with a rich and creamy spinach filling creates an irresistible treat that is both easy to make and satisfying. If you love Mediterranean flavors or are looking for a unique appetizer that will impress your guests, Spanakopita Bites are an excellent choice. These small, crispy morsels encapsulate the essence of Greek cuisine with their delicious blend of spinach, feta cheese, and aromatic herbs.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 10 ounces frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 teaspoons hot sauce (optional)
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup small-curd cottage cheese
- 14 sheets phyllo dough, thawed
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon each of butter and olive oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion until translucent, about 4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
- In a large bowl, combine the sautéed onions and garlic with thawed spinach, salt, pepper, hot sauce (if using), beaten egg, feta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and cottage cheese. Mix well to incorporate all ingredients.
- In a separate bowl, mix the remaining melted butter and olive oil.
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish. Place one sheet of phyllo dough in the dish and brush with the butter-oil mixture. Repeat layering and brushing with 6 more sheets of phyllo.
- Evenly spread the spinach mixture over the layered phyllo.
- Continue layering the remaining phyllo sheets on top of the spinach mixture, brushing each sheet with the butter-oil mixture. Ensure the top layer is well-buttered.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before cutting into bite-sized squares.
Prep Time: 20 minutes Cooking Time: 45 minutes Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes Kcal: Approximately 60 kcal per bite Servings: Approximately 16 servings
The Origins of Spanakopita
Spanakopita has its roots in Greek cuisine and is believed to date back to the Byzantine era. The word “spanakopita” comes from the Greek words “spanaki” meaning spinach and “pita” meaning pie. This savory pastry was traditionally made in Greek homes and enjoyed during holidays, special occasions, or as a staple snack. Over the years, variations of Spanakopita have spread beyond Greece, becoming a beloved dish worldwide.
The bite-sized version of Spanakopita allows for the same delicious taste but in a more convenient, hand-held form. This adaptation has become increasingly popular at social events, as it is easy to serve and enjoy without utensils.
Why You Should Make Spanakopita Bites
Spanakopita Bites are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Here are a few reasons why you should try making them:
- Perfect Party Food: These bite-sized treats are easy to serve and enjoy at gatherings. Their small size makes them ideal for finger food at parties or buffets.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the filling and even assemble the bites in advance. Simply bake them fresh before serving, allowing you to save time when entertaining.
- Vegetarian Delight: Spanakopita Bites are a great option for vegetarian guests. The combination of spinach, feta, and herbs delivers a rich and satisfying flavor without the need for meat.
- Customizable: You can easily tweak the filling to suit your taste preferences. Add more herbs, use a different type of cheese, or incorporate other vegetables to create your own unique variation.
- Health Benefits: Spinach is a nutrient-dense leafy green packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and fiber. Combined with feta cheese, which is a good source of protein and calcium, these bites offer a nutritious and tasty treat.
Tips for Perfect Spanakopita Bites
To achieve the best results when making Spanakopita Bites, keep these tips in mind:
- Thaw Phyllo Dough Properly: Ensure that the phyllo dough is fully thawed before using it. Keep it covered with a damp towel while working to prevent it from drying out and becoming brittle.
- Squeeze Out Excess Moisture: Be sure to thoroughly squeeze the moisture out of the thawed spinach. Excess water can make the filling too wet and cause the phyllo dough to become soggy.
- Use Quality Cheese: Opt for a good-quality feta cheese for the best flavor. You can also mix in a little Parmesan for added richness.
- Brush with Butter or Olive Oil: Brushing each layer of phyllo dough with melted butter or olive oil ensures a crisp, golden-brown finish. Don’t skip this step for that signature flakiness.
- Bake Until Golden: Keep an eye on the bites while baking. They should be golden brown and crispy on the edges when done.
Variations and Serving Ideas
While the classic Spanakopita Bites recipe is delicious as is, you can experiment with different flavors and presentations. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:
- Cheese Variations: Swap feta for ricotta or goat cheese for a creamier texture. You can also mix multiple cheeses for a more complex flavor profile.
- Add Herbs and Spices: Fresh dill, parsley, or mint can add a refreshing twist. For a spicier bite, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Phyllo Alternatives: If you prefer, you can use puff pastry instead of phyllo dough for a richer and more buttery texture.
- Serve with Dips: Spanakopita Bites pair wonderfully with dips such as tzatziki, hummus, or a lemon-garlic yogurt sauce.
- Mini Spanakopita Triangles: Instead of cups, fold the phyllo dough into small triangles for a different presentation.
Storing and Reheating Spanakopita Bites
Spanakopita Bites store and reheat beautifully, making them a convenient make-ahead option. Here are some guidelines for storage and reheating:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze unbaked Spanakopita Bites. Arrange them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- Reheating: To maintain their crispiness, reheat the bites in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. Avoid using a microwave, as it can make the phyllo dough soggy.
Conclusion:
Spanakopita Bites are a crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines the best of Greek flavors in a convenient, bite-sized package. With their crispy phyllo crust and savory spinach and feta filling, they are perfect for parties, potlucks, or a simple snack at home.
The versatility of this recipe allows for customization to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with new ingredients, these delicious bites will surely become a favorite.
So, next time you’re planning a gathering or simply craving a delicious homemade appetizer, give Spanakopita Bites a try. They are easy to make, irresistibly tasty, and guaranteed to impress your guests!
