Are you craving a taste of the sun-drenched Greek isles? Then look no further! This easy Greek filo pastry recipe is the perfect way to transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean without ever leaving your kitchen. Whether you're looking for a quick dinner idea, a healthy meal, or simply a delicious dish to impress your friends, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your homemade cooking repertoire. It's surprisingly simple to make, yet delivers an explosion of flavor and texture that's truly unforgettable. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 package (14.1 oz) filo pastry sheets, thawed
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup milk
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped Kalamata olives
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
Prepare the filling: In a medium bowl, gently combine the feta cheese, spinach, dill, red onion, and olives (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble the pastry: Lay one filo sheet in the prepared pan, letting the edges hang over the sides. Brush lightly with melted butter. Repeat with 5-6 more filo sheets, brushing each with butter.
Add the filling: Evenly spread the feta and spinach mixture over the filo sheets.
Create the layers: Fold the overhanging filo sheets over the filling, then continue layering the remaining filo sheets, brushing each with butter. Tuck in any loose edges.
Bake it: Pour the beaten eggs and milk mixture evenly over the top layer of filo. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crispy.
Serve: Let the pastry cool slightly before cutting into squares and serving. It’s delicious warm or at room temperature, perfect as a side dish or a light meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Greek Filo Pastry:
- Thaw properly: Ensure your filo pastry is completely thawed before using. This prevents tearing and ensures even cooking.
- Work quickly: Filo pastry can dry out quickly, so work efficiently when layering. Keep unused sheets covered with a damp cloth.
- Don't overfill: Too much filling can make the pastry soggy. Use the recommended amount for best results.
- Adjust seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your preference. A pinch of oregano or a squeeze of lemon juice can add extra flavor.
Variations:
- Mushroom and spinach: Replace the feta with sauteed mushrooms and add more spinach for a vegetarian option.
- Meat lovers: Add cooked ground lamb or beef to the filling for a heartier dish.
- Sweet treat: Use phyllo cups to make a sweet dessert with a honey-walnut filling.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Around 250-300
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This Greek filo pastry recipe is a perfect example of how easy and delicious homemade cooking can be. It’s a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Enjoy the wonderful flavors of Greece from the comfort of your own home!