Yiayia Kruz’s Spanakopita

Authentic Greek Spinach Pie with Homemade Pastry

This recipe is close to our hearts—it’s from Yiayia Kreousa, our great grandmother’s namesake. Known for her cooking skills, Yiayia Kreousa didn’t believe in measuring, and she always embraced the art of cooking with love and a pinch of magic. This authentic Greek Spanakopita recipe has been passed down through generations, and we hope you’ll treasure it just like we do.

If you’re looking for the perfect blend of flaky homemade pastry, savory spinach, and a creamy cheese filling, look no further. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients for Spanakopita:

• 1.5-2 bags of fresh spinach
• 1 bag of tasty cheese
• 1 bag of parmesan cheese
• Salt to taste
• 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
• 1 cup of olive oil
• 1 leek, finely chopped
• 8 eggs + 1 for the pastry
• your Horta Handler

Homemade Dough Ingredients:

• 1 kg of flour
• ¾ cup of warm water
• ¾ cup of olive oil
• Pinch of salt

Method:

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (fan-forced).
2. Prepare the dough: Mix the flour, warm water, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Knead well until smooth and soft.
3. Make the filling:
   • In a large bowl, combine the spinach, tasty cheese, parmesan cheese, salt, cinnamon, leek, and eggs. Mix thoroughly until the filling is well combined.
4. Assemble the Spanakopita:
   • Roll out your homemade dough into thin sheets, layering each with olive oil.
   • Add a generous amount of filling onto the dough and fold to create layers. Repeat the process for the second Spanakopita if desired.
5. Bake: Place the Spanakopita in the oven and cook for about 40-50 minutes or until the pastry is golden and crispy all over.
6. Flip to cook evenly: For an extra golden finish, flip the Spanakopita halfway through cooking.
7. Cool before serving: Let it cool slightly before cutting to let the filling set.

Notes:

• These measurements are approximate—feel free to add more spinach or cheese to your liking!
• Yiayia Kreousa’s Spanakopita is all about taste, so trust your instincts and enjoy the process.
• This recipe makes two Spanakopita, perfect for sharing or enjoying as leftovers.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Authentic Greek flavors: With homemade filo pastry and a delicious spinach and cheese filling, this recipe is the ultimate comfort food.
• Generations of tradition: A family recipe passed down through generations, packed with love and flavor.
• Perfect for any occasion: Serve as a main dish or a side—perfect for family meals, parties, or special occasions.

Time Needed

Nigella’s: 1 hour – before the oven
Rookie’s: 2 hours, maybe more – before the oven

Don’t forget to lick the koutali 😉

Product Used