Ingredients
For the Filling
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or 1½ cups thawed frozen spinach, well-drained)
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 cup ricotta or cottage cheese
- 1 small onion, finely minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 egg (for the filling)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ teaspoon dried dill or parsley (optional)
For the Pastry
- 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Filling
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the minced onion and sauté until soft and fragrant. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
If using fresh spinach, add it to the pan and cook until wilted. If using frozen spinach, ensure it is fully thawed and squeezed dry before adding.
Transfer the cooked spinach mixture to a bowl. Add feta, ricotta (or cottage cheese), one egg, salt, black pepper, and dried herbs if using. Mix everything until well combined. The mixture should be creamy but thick enough to spread easily.
2. Assemble the Pie
Place one sheet of puff pastry onto a parchment-lined baking tray. Gently roll it out if needed to create an even rectangle.
Spread the spinach filling evenly across the pastry, leaving about ½ inch of space along the edges for sealing.
Place the second sheet of puff pastry on top. Press the edges together firmly, then crimp them with a fork to seal. This helps keep the filling inside while baking.
3. Score and Egg-Wash
Using a knife, gently score (lightly cut) the top pastry into squares without cutting through completely. This will make slicing after baking easier and give the pie a neat look.
Beat an egg and brush it over the surface to give your pie a shiny, golden finish. Sprinkle sesame seeds across the top if desired.
4. Bake the Pie
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25–35 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed, golden, and crispy. The top should be beautifully browned and flaky.
Remove from the oven and allow the pie to cool slightly before slicing.
A Savory Delight with a Mediterranean Soul
This spinach and feta puff pastry pie is inspired by traditional Mediterranean flavors, especially Greek cuisine, where spinach and cheese combinations like spanakopita are beloved. Using puff pastry makes the recipe quicker and more accessible while still delivering the flaky, layered texture everyone loves.
The combination of spinach and feta creates a filling that is creamy, tangy, and rich. Feta’s salty brightness complements the mild earthy flavor of spinach perfectly, and the ricotta or cottage cheese adds smoothness and moisture.
Texture, Flavor, and Aroma: What Makes It Special
A well-made spinach and feta puff pastry pie offers a beautifully balanced eating experience:
• Flaky Layers of Pastry
Each bite delivers crisp, buttery layers that break apart delicately. Puff pastry puffs up beautifully in the oven, creating light, golden pockets filled with steam.
• Creamy, Savory Filling
The filling is luscious yet structured, packed with greens and enriched by cheese. The blend is rich without being heavy, making it satisfying and comforting.
• Aromatic Herbs
Dill, parsley, or even a hint of oregano bring a Mediterranean flair, adding freshness and complexity to the filling.
• Golden Appearance
The egg wash and sesame seeds give the pie a bakery-quality finish that makes it look as good as it tastes.
Serving Suggestions
This savory pie is incredibly versatile. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:
- Brunch centerpiece: Serve warm with fruit, yogurt, or eggs.
- Lunch or dinner: Pair with salad, roasted vegetables, or soup.
- Party appetizer: Cut into small squares and serve on a platter.
- Meal prep option: It reheats well and tastes even better the next day.
It can be served warm, room temperature, or even chilled depending on your preferences.
Tips for the Best Spinach and Feta Pie
To ensure your pie turns out perfect every time, try these helpful tips:
• Drain spinach extremely well.
Excess moisture can make the pastry soggy. Squeeze frozen spinach tightly or let fresh spinach cool before draining.
• Don’t skip sautéing the onion and garlic.
This adds depth and prevents raw onion flavor.
• Taste the filling before adding the egg.
Feta can be salty, so adjust salt carefully.
• Use cold pastry.
Cold puff pastry rises better and creates more defined layers.
• Score gently.
Light scoring helps with even cuts and prevents the top layer from lifting too much.
• Let it cool slightly before slicing.
This helps the layers settle and makes cleaner cuts.
Variations to Try
Spinach and feta puff pastry pie is wonderfully customizable. Consider trying these variations:
• Spinach and Ricotta Only
Skip feta for a milder flavor and extra creaminess.
• Add Mushrooms
Sautéed mushrooms add depth and umami.
• Add Chicken
Shredded chicken or leftover roast adds protein.
• Add Herbs and Spices
Try nutmeg, oregano, thyme, or paprika for a twist.
• Use Kale Instead of Spinach
A heartier green adds texture and nutrition.
Conclusion
This spinach and feta puff pastry pie is a standout dish that combines simplicity with impressive results. With its golden, flaky exterior and creamy, flavorful filling, it’s a must-make recipe for anyone who loves savory pastries and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. Easy to prepare, beautiful to serve, and absolutely delicious, this pie is perfect for family meals, gatherings, or a comforting homemade treat.