Spinach and Feta Phyllo Pies
These savory pies feature a flavorful filling of spinach, feta cheese, onions, and herbs, encased in crisp phyllo dough. A popular dish for celebrations like Shavuot, they are a delightful blend of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences.
🧂 Ingredients
- 3 large Onions(finely chopped)
- 4 tablespoons Olive oil
- 30 ounces Frozen chopped spinach(defrosted and squeezed dry)
- 7 large Eggs(beaten)
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese(freshly grated)
- 3 tablespoons Bread crumbs(plain dry)
- 8 ounces Feta cheese(cubed)
- 0.5 cup Pine nuts(toasted)
- 1 teaspoon Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 1 package Phyllo dough(defrosted (approx. 30 sheets))
- 1 cup Salted butter(melted)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
- 2
In a large sauté pan over medium heat, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the chopped onions and sauté until soft and golden brown, about 10 minutes.
- 3
In a large bowl, combine the squeezed spinach, sautéed onions, beaten eggs, Parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, cubed feta, toasted pine nuts, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
💡 Tip: Ensure spinach is thoroughly squeezed to remove excess water. - 4
Prepare the phyllo dough: Lay out one sheet of phyllo dough on a clean surface. Brush generously with melted butter. Place another sheet on top and brush with butter. Repeat with a third sheet.
💡 Tip: Keep the remaining phyllo sheets covered with a damp towel to prevent drying. - 5
Spread about 2 tablespoons of the spinach and feta mixture along the bottom edge of the layered phyllo sheets.
💡 Tip: Don't overfill, or the rolls will be difficult to close. - 6
Fold the sides of the phyllo dough over the filling, then roll up tightly from the bottom to create a small roll or cigar shape.
💡 Tip: Seal the edges well to prevent the filling from leaking. - 7
Place the rolls seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with melted butter.
💡 Tip: Leave some space between rolls as they may expand slightly. - 8
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓These can be made ahead and reheated.
- ✓For a large pie, layer 6 sheets of phyllo in a greased baking dish, spread the filling evenly, top with another 6 layers of phyllo, brush with butter, and bake for 1 hour.
- ✓Use good quality feta cheese for the best flavor.
🔄 Variations
- Add sautéed leeks or a pinch of nutmeg to the filling.
- For a vegetarian option, ensure all cheeses are vegetarian-friendly.