Savory Spanakopita Spinach Spiral

Welcome to a culinary adventure with our delightful recipe for Spanakopita Spinach Spiral! This savory masterpiece combines the goodness of tender sautéed spinach, tangy feta and goat cheeses, and aromatic parsley, all nestled in layers of flaky filo pastry. Enhanced with toasted pine nuts and a hint of nutmeg, this spiral creation is a feast for the senses, showcasing Mediterranean-inspired flavors that are sure to impress your guests or family.

Transforming the traditional Greek spinach pie into an elegant spiral presentation, this Spanakopita Spinach Spiral offers a perfect balance of creamy filling and crispy pastry. Whether you’re hosting a special gathering or simply craving a flavor-packed meal, this dish is a showstopper that requires no complicated techniques—just simple rolling and coiling to achieve its stunning appearance. The contrast between the buttery filo exterior and the rich spinach filling will transport you to the sun-kissed shores of Greece with each delicious bite.

Elevate your dining experience with this Spanakopita Spinach Spiral, a versatile dish that makes a fantastic vegetarian main course or a delightful appetizer. With its make-ahead convenience and the option to freeze before baking, you can effortlessly prepare this culinary gem ahead of time, allowing you to savor every moment of your gathering. So, gather your loved ones, follow our easy steps, and indulge in the enchanting flavors of this Greek-inspired creation that marries tradition with modern flair.

Quick Benefits

• Simple rolling and coiling technique – no complicated skills required
• Impressive centerpiece for any meal or gathering
• Perfect balance of flaky pastry and creamy, savory filling
• Can be made ahead and reheated beautifully

Why You’ll Love This Savory Spanakopita Spinach Spiral Recipe

• Impressive Presentation: The beautiful spiral shape makes this dish a showstopper at any gathering.
• Mediterranean Flavors: A blend of savory spinach, tangy cheeses, and aromatic herbs offers a taste of the Mediterranean.
• Balance of Textures: Crispy filo pastry encases a creamy, flavorful filling for a delightful contrast in every bite.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Assemble the spiral in advance and bake it when needed, perfect for stress-free entertaining.
• Traditional with a Twist: A modern take on classic spanakopita, this recipe retains all the authentic flavors while adding a creative twist.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a vegetarian main course, a fancy appetizer, or part of a Mediterranean feast.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with iron and calcium from spinach and cheese, this dish offers both flavor and nutrition.
• Beginner-Friendly Tips: Easy-to-follow techniques for working with filo dough make this recipe accessible to all skill levels.
• Family Recipe Inspiration: A dish that evokes memories of traditional Greek cooking and the joy of sharing meals with loved ones.
• Recommendations for Variations: Add fresh herbs or adjust cheeses to suit personal preferences for a customized touch.
• Storage and Reheating Tips: Instructions for storing leftovers and reheating ensure that the dish stays delicious even after the initial serving.
• Authentic Taste: Using olive oil and traditional cheeses gives this dish an authentic Greek flavor profile.
• Tips for Success: Proven tips such as keeping filo pastry moist and avoiding overfilling ensure a successful outcome every time.

Ingredients for Savory Spanakopita Spinach Spiral

Sautéed spinach

• 1 tbsp Lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp Black pepper powder
• 2 large Garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 tsp Kosher salt
• 1 medium Onion, chopped
• 350 g Spinach

Spinach filling

• 1 large Egg, beaten
• Pinch of nutmeg
• 113 g Goat cheese cream or feta
• 1 cup Parsley, chopped
• 67.5 g Pine nuts, toasted
• 60 g Cheddar cheese, grated
• 225 g Feta cheese, crumbled

Assembly

• 120 ml Olive oil or melted butter
• 16 sheets (304 g) Filo pastry

Pro Tips for Savory Spanakopita Spinach Spiral

Pro Tips:

Mastering filo pastry: Thaw frozen filo in the refrigerator and keep it covered with a damp towel while working to prevent drying and cracking. Work quickly and carefully, layering torn sheets to maintain the integrity of the spiral.

Make-ahead magic: Prepare the spanakopita spiral up to 24 hours in advance by assembling and refrigerating it tightly covered. For longer storage, freeze the unbaked spiral for up to a month, adjusting baking time accordingly for a convenient and delicious dish anytime.

Flavor enhancements: Add fresh dill or mint to the spinach mixture for an extra burst of flavor. Brush filo layers with olive oil for authentic Greek taste and better keeping qualities. These simple touches elevate the dish and enrich the overall experience for your guests.

How to Make Savory Spanakopita Spinach Spiral

Step 1: Step 01

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C), then thaw frozen spinach and remove excess liquid.

Step 2: Step 02

In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Sauté onion and garlic until translucent. Add spinach, salt, and pepper; cook until wilted. Stir in lemon juice and cook on high until liquid evaporates.

Step 3: Step 03

Place the cooked spinach in a large bowl to cool slightly. Then, mix in crumbled cheeses, beaten egg, parsley, pine nuts, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 4: Step 04

Coat the bottom of a 9-inch pie pan or 9×13-inch dish with olive oil.

Step 5: Step 05

Lay two sheets of filo pastry on a work surface. Brush with melted butter. Spread 4 tbsp of spinach filling on top, leaving a 2-inch border. Roll the pastry into a tube and coil it in the pie pan. Repeat until the pan is filled.

Step 6: Step 06

Apply olive oil on the top layer of pastry to achieve a golden and crispy crust.

Step 7: Step 07

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before cutting into squares or triangles.

Storage Tips

Once the Spanakopita Spinach Spiral is baked and cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain its crispy texture, it’s best to reheat the dish in the oven rather than the microwave. Simply place the desired portion in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

To prevent the filo pastry from becoming soggy, avoid storing the Spanakopita Spiral in the refrigerator for too long. The combination of moist filling and flaky pastry can lead to a loss of crispiness over time. If you plan to make this dish ahead of time, assemble the spiral up to 24 hours before baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until ready to bake.

For longer storage, the unbaked Spanakopita Spiral can be frozen for up to a month. When ready to bake, place the frozen spiral directly in the oven and add 10-15 minutes to the baking time. Freezing unbaked allows you to have a delicious homemade dish on hand for unexpected guests or busy days.

Ingredient Substitutions

For the Spanakopita Spinach Spiral, you can make some ingredient substitutions based on what you have available. If you don’t have fresh spinach, frozen spinach can be a convenient alternative. Remember to thaw and thoroughly squeeze out excess liquid before using it in the recipe to prevent a watery filling. Additionally, if you prefer a milder flavor, you can replace the goat cheese with ricotta cheese, which will still provide a creamy texture to balance the tangy feta.

In place of cheddar cheese, you could use another melty cheese like Gouda or even mozzarella for a different flavor profile that still adds richness to the filling. When it comes to the filo pastry, if you can’t find it, puff pastry can be a suitable substitute. While the texture will be slightly different, puff pastry will still provide a flaky and crispy outer layer for your spiral. Just be mindful of adjusting the baking time accordingly as puff pastry may cook faster than filo.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, consider cutting the Spanakopita Spinach Spiral into smaller, bite-sized pinwheels after baking. These individual portions are perfect for serving as appetizers at a party or for a delightful mezze platter. Drizzle them with a touch of honey or a sprinkle of za’atar seasoning before serving to add an extra layer of flavor that will impress your guests.

Another serving idea is to pair the Spanakopita Spiral with a refreshing cucumber and mint yogurt sauce. The cool and creamy tzatziki-style dip complements the savory and flaky pastry beautifully, adding a burst of freshness to each bite. This combination of warm Spanakopita with a cool and tangy dip creates a delightful contrast that will elevate your dining experience.

FAQs for Savory Spanakopita Spinach Spiral

Can I use frozen spinach for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Thaw and squeeze out excess liquid before sautéing to avoid a watery filling.

What cheese options can I use besides feta?

Feta cheese is the classic choice, but a mix of feta, goat cheese, and cheddar gives extra creaminess and flavor.

How do I prevent the filo pastry from breaking while working with it?

To prevent filo pastry from breaking, keep it covered with a damp kitchen towel while working on it. This keeps the layers from drying out.

Can I assemble the spanakopita spiral ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the spanakopita spiral, refrigerate it unbaked, and bake it fresh when needed for the best results.

Conclusion

Incorporating the flavors of Greece into your meals can be a delightful experience, especially with dishes like the Spanakopita Spinach Spiral. The fusion of tender spinach, tangy cheeses, and aromatic herbs wrapped in flaky filo pastry creates a culinary masterpiece that is as visually stunning as it is delicious. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking to elevate your weeknight dinner, this spiral creation is sure to impress your guests and loved ones.

Remember, mastering the art of working with filo dough may take a bit of practice, but the end result is well worth the effort. The crispy golden exterior paired with the creamy spinach filling is a delightful contrast that will transport you to the shores of the Mediterranean with each bite. So, don’t be afraid to give this Spanakopita Spinach Spiral a try and share the love for Greek cuisine with your family and friends. Embrace the tradition and modern flair of this dish, and let it become a star on your dining table.