Dive into the tantalizing flavors of Greece with our authentic Spanakopita recipe. This classic Greek dish features layers of flaky phyllo pastry filled with a savory mixture of spinach, feta cheese, onions, and aromatic herbs. Baked to golden perfection, each bite delivers a delightful combination of textures and tastes that will transport you straight to the sunny shores of the Aegean. Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or main course, this Spanakopita recipe is sure to impress and satisfy your cravings for Greek cuisine. Experience the essence of Greece in every delicious bite!

Here's a traditional recipe for Greek Spanakopita:

Ingredients:

• 1 package of phyllo dough, thawed
• 500g (about 1 pound) fresh spinach, chopped
• 200g (about 7 ounces) feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• Butter or olive oil for brushing the phyllo dough

Instructions:

1- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or butter.

2- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.

3- Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

4- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach mixture with crumbled feta cheese, chopped dill, parsley, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Mix well to combine.

5- Lay out one sheet of phyllo dough on a clean surface. Brush it lightly with olive oil or melted butter. Place another sheet of phyllo on top and repeat the process until you have 4-5 layers.

6- Spread a portion of the spinach and feta mixture evenly over the phyllo dough, leaving about an inch border around the edges.

7- Carefully roll up the phyllo dough with the filling, folding in the edges as you go, to form a log shape.

8- Transfer the rolled Spanakopita to the prepared baking dish, seam side down. Repeat the process with the remaining phyllo dough and filling.

9- Brush the tops of the Spanakopita rolls with more olive oil or melted butter.

10- Using a sharp knife, score the tops of the Spanakopita rolls into individual portions.

11- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the phyllo dough is golden brown and crispy.

12- Allow the Spanakopita to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your delicious Greek spinach and feta pastry hot or at room temperature!

Serve your homemade Spanakopita with a side of tzatziki sauce or a Greek salad for a complete Mediterranean meal experience. Enjoy!

Nutritional Values:

Here are approximate nutritional values for the ingredients used in the Greek Spanakopita recipe:

Phyllo Dough (1 package, about 16 oz):

• Calories: 1,600 kcal
• Fat: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 320g
• Protein: 32g

benefits:Provides carbohydrates for energy and a crispy, flaky texture to the Spanakopita.

Fresh Spinach (500g):

• Calories: 105 kcal
• Fat: 1.4g
• Carbohydrates: 18.8g
• Protein: 13g

benefits:Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and antioxidants. Supports eye health, boosts immunity, and promotes bone health.

Feta Cheese (200g):

• Calories: 528 kcal
• Fat: 42g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Protein: 32g

benefits:High in calcium and protein, feta cheese contributes to bone health and muscle repair. It also provides beneficial probiotics for gut health.

Onion (1 large):

• Calories: 60 kcal
• Fat: 0.2g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Protein: 1.5g

benefits:Contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. Onions also provide fiber and vitamin C, supporting digestive health and immune function.

Garlic (3-4 cloves):

• Calories: 13 kcal
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Protein: 0.6g

benefits:Known for its antimicrobial and immune-boosting properties. Garlic supports heart health, helps lower cholesterol levels, and may have anticancer effects.

Olive Oil (1/4 cup):

• Calories: 477 kcal
• Fat: 54g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Protein: 0g

benefits:A source of healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, such as vitamin E. Olive oil supports heart health, reduces inflammation, and may improve brain function.

Fresh Dill (1/4 cup):

• Calories: 4 kcal
• Fat: 0.1g
• Carbohydrates: 0.6g
• Protein: 0.3g

benefits:Contains vitamins A and C, as well as calcium and iron. Dill aids digestion, supports bone health, and may have antimicrobial properties.

Fresh Parsley (1/4 cup):

• Calories: 4 kcal
• Fat: 0.1g
• Carbohydrates: 0.6g
• Protein: 0.3g

benefits:Rich in vitamins K, C, and A, parsley supports bone health, immune function, and detoxification. It also acts as a natural breath freshener.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as brand, variety, and preparation methods. Additionally, the nutritional values provided are for the entire recipe, so you may need to adjust accordingly based on portion size.