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Easy Greek Spinach Pie with Cheese

Spanakotyropita (also known as spanakopita)

by Nancy Gaifyllia
for About.com

Text-only recipe

This is a family favorite because it's quick and easier to make than some other versions.

Day 1: Make the Filling

  • 4 pounds of fresh spinach, washed, trimmed, and chopped
  • 1 large or 2 small spring onions, chopped
  • 2/3 cup of olive oil
  • 1/3 cup of water

Over medium heat, sauté the onion in olive oil until soft. Add spinach and water, bring to a boil and cover. Reduce heat to low and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Put in a colander to drain. When cooled, cover and continue to drain in the refrigerator overnight.

Day 2: Make the Pita (photos)

  • spinach from day 1 (bring to room temp)
  • 1 egg
  • 2/3 pounds of firm feta cheese
  • 2 teaspoons of freshly ground pepper
  • 2 tablespoons + 2 teaspoons of olive oil
  • 1 pound of phyllo sheets 14 x 18 inches
  • 2 tablespoons of water

Note: Contrary to most instructions (even my own), the phyllo can be taken out of the freezer to defrost 3 hours before using (leave package unopened while defrosting).

Images 1-12 of 16

Photo of Greek Spinach Pie with Cheese - Spanakopita - SpanakotyropitaSpinach Pie with CheeseStart with prepared spinach, and preheat the ovenBeat the egg and add to the spinachCrumble the cheese and add to the spinach
Mix cheese and egg into spinach until well distributedUnroll the phyllo and count the sheetsUse half the phyllo sheets on the bottom of the oiled panBrush the phyllo with the oil
Pour the spinach mixture into the panSpread the spinach filling out evenly over the doughLay the other half of the phyllo sheets on topUse a sharp knife to cut into 20 pieces
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