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Make Traditional Spanakopita Triangles

Make Traditional Spanakopita Triangles

Learn how to make authentic Greek spanakopita triangles with this easy step-by-step recipe. These crispy, delicious spinach pies combine flaky phyllo pastry, savory spinach, creamy feta cheese, and fresh herbs for a perfect blend of textures and flavors. Ideal as a snack, appetizer, or light meal, these traditional Greek treats are simple to prepare and great for make-ahead occasions.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • Fresh spinach – 1 lb (washed and chopped)
  • Feta cheese – 8 oz (crumbled)
  • Phyllo dough sheets – 1 package (about 16 sheets, thawed)
  • Onion – 1 medium (finely chopped)
  • Garlic – 2 cloves (minced)
  • Olive oil or butter – 1/2 cup (for brushing)
  • Fresh herbs (dill or parsley) – 2 tbsp (chopped)
  • Salt – to taste
  • Black pepper – to taste
  • Sour cream or yogurt (optional) – 2 tbsp

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Filling: Sauté finely chopped onions and minced garlic in olive oil over medium heat until soft and fragrant. Add the chopped fresh spinach and cook until wilted, allowing any excess moisture to evaporate. Transfer to a bowl, crumble in the feta cheese, add chopped herbs, salt, pepper, and optionally stir in sour cream or yogurt for extra creaminess. Mix well and set aside to cool.
  2. Prepare the Phyllo Dough: Lay out phyllo sheets on a clean, dry kitchen towel to prevent drying out. Brush one sheet lightly with olive oil or melted butter, then layer another sheet on top and brush again. This creates two layers that will crisp up beautifully.
  3. Cut and Fill the Strips: Cut the layered phyllo sheets into long strips about 3 to 4 inches wide. Place a small spoonful of the spinach and feta filling at the bottom edge of each strip.
  4. Fold Into Triangles: Fold the bottom corner of each strip over the filling to form a triangle. Continue folding the strip in triangular shapes along the length until the entire strip is folded, enclosing the filling inside to make traditional spanakopita triangles.
  5. Bake Until Golden: Place the triangles seam-side down on a greased baking sheet. Brush the tops with more olive oil or melted butter to encourage a golden, crispy crust. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, until puffed and golden brown.

Notes

  • Drain the spinach thoroughly to avoid soggy triangles.
  • Keep phyllo sheets covered with a damp towel while assembling to prevent drying out.
  • Brush phyllo generously with oil or butter for crispiness and even browning.
  • Use uniform amounts of filling in each strip to ensure even cooking.
  • Practice the folding technique; it becomes easier with time.

Nutrition

Keywords: spanakopita, Greek spinach pie, phyllo pastry, feta cheese, appetizer, snack, Greek cuisine