Spinach pie, or "Spanakopita" in Greek, has a special place in our hearts as it's a dish that connects us to our family's heritage and traditions. This beloved Greek delicacy, featuring flaky layers of phyllo dough and a flavorful spinach and cheese filling, carries not only the delicious taste of Greece but also the cherished memories of gatherings with our family. Today, we're excited to share our family's cherished recipe for spinach pie, enhanced with the rich, fruity flavors of Rallis Olive Oil, a key ingredient that makes it truly special.
Family Connection and Spinach Pie
Spinach pie is more than just a dish on our family table; it's a symbol of togetherness, love, and shared experiences. Growing up, we often found ourselves gathered in the kitchen, watching our mom work her culinary magic. Spinach pie was a staple during these family gatherings, and it's a dish that has been passed down through generations.
Each bite of spinach pie takes us back to those moments when the kitchen was filled with laughter and the aroma of homemade Greek cuisine. Whether it was a holiday celebration or a simple Sunday dinner, spinach pie was a constant presence, binding our family together and creating unforgettable memories.
The Role of Rallis Olive Oil
In our family, the choice of ingredients is as important as the recipe itself. Rallis Olive Oil, with its exceptional quality and authentic Greek flavor, plays a vital role in infusing our spinach pie with the essence of Greece. Its fruity notes and richness enhance the taste and authenticity of this beloved dish, ensuring that it's not just a meal but a connection to our Greek heritage.
Tips on Choosing the Right Ingredients
Olive Oil Selection
When choosing olive oil for your spinach pie or any Greek dish, opt for extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) like Rallis Olive Oil. EVOO is the highest quality olive oil, preserving the flavors and aromas of the olives. Look for olive oils that are sourced from reputable producers and have a fresh, fruity, and slightly peppery taste, which is characteristic of high-quality Greek olive oils.
Phyllo Dough
Selecting the right phyllo dough is crucial for achieving that perfect flaky crust. Make sure to buy a high-quality phyllo dough from a trusted brand. Thaw it properly in the refrigerator and handle it gently to prevent tearing.
Cheese Choices
The choice of cheese in your spinach pie filling can vary, but for an authentic Greek taste, consider using a combination of feta cheese and Greek Myzithra cheese. Feta adds a creamy and tangy flavor, while Myzithra contributes a crumbly and slightly salty texture. These cheeses complement each other beautifully.
Fresh Spinach
Whenever possible, use fresh spinach. It has a vibrant color and a more pronounced flavor compared to frozen spinach. Wash the fresh spinach thoroughly and remove any tough stems before chopping.
Aromatic Ingredients
Don't underestimate the impact of garlic, onions, and leaks in your filling. These ingredients add depth and complexity to the overall flavor of your spinach pie.
Recipe:
Ingredients:
For the Filling: 1 pound fresh spinach, chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced ½ leak, chopped 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese 1/2 cup ricotta cheese 1/2 cup grated Greek Myzithra cheese (or parmesan) 2 tablespoons Rallis Olive Oil Salt and pepper to taste Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
For the Phyllo Layers: 12 sheets of phyllo dough, thawed 1/4 cup Rallis Olive Oil (for brushing)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of Rallis Olive Oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic and leeks, sautéing until translucent.
Continue with the same steps for preparing the filling, mixing in the crumbled feta cheese, ricotta cheese, Greek Myzithra cheese, salt, and pepper.
For the phyllo layers, lay one sheet of phyllo dough in a rectangle pan, brush it lightly with Rallis Olive Oil. Place another sheet on top and repeat the process until you have 6 layers.
Spoon the spinach and cheese filling evenly over the layered phyllo sheets.
Continue layering the remaining 6 sheets of phyllo dough, brushing each layer with olive oil.
Brush the top of the pie with more Rallis Olive Oil to achieve a golden-brown crust.
Using a sharp knife, score the top of the pie into portions, but do not cut all the way through.
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the spinach pie is golden brown and crisp.
Allow the pie to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Each slice not only carries the flavors of Greece but also the warmth and connection of family traditions.
Spinach pie, a beloved family recipe, is a reminder of our Greek heritage and the bonds that unite us. With Rallis Olive Oil, we ensure that this dish not only tastes authentic but also encapsulates the love and memories shared around the family table. Share this heartwarming spinach pie with your loved ones and create your own moments of togetherness and connection. Opa!