If you’re a fan of flaky, savory pastries packed with fresh spinach and tangy cheeses, then this Spanakopita Spiral Recipe is about to become your new favorite dish. Imagine layers of golden filo wrapping around a luscious, flavorful filling of spinach, feta, and pine nuts, baked to perfection. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of textures and vibrant Mediterranean flavors that comes together in a stunning spiral that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether for a family dinner or a festive gathering, this Spanakopita Spiral Recipe promises impressive presentation and mouthwatering taste with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With simple, wholesome ingredients, this recipe relies on the freshness of spinach, the creaminess of cheeses, and the crispiness of filo pastry to create a balanced flavor and irresistible texture. Each ingredient is chosen to contribute something unique — from depth and tartness to crunch and color.
- Spinach (1 – 1½ lbs): The star leafy green, providing vibrant color and earthy flavor.
- Onion (1 medium, chopped): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- Garlic (2 large cloves): Infuses a fragrant aroma that complements the spinach beautifully.
- Kosher salt (½ tsp): Enhances the natural flavors of the filling.
- Black pepper powder (½ tsp): Gives a mild peppery kick to balance the richness.
- Lemon juice (1 tbsp): Brightens and balances the savory ingredients.
- Goat cheese cream or feta (½ cup): Adds creamy tanginess and richness.
- Feta cheese (1½ cups): Provides the iconic salty flavor essential to spanakopita.
- Cheddar cheese, grated (½ cup): Brings a subtle sharpness to the mixture.
- Egg (1 large): Acts as a binder to hold the filling together firmly.
- Parsley (1 cup): Freshens with herbal notes and a pop of green.
- Pine nuts, toasted (½ cup): Adds a delicate crunch and nutty flavor.
- Nutmeg (a pinch): Just enough warm spice to elevate the filling.
- Filo pastry (16 sheets): Essential for creating the signature flaky, golden layers.
- Olive oil or melted butter (½ cup): Brushes the layers to nourish the pastry with crispness and richness.
How to Make Spanakopita Spiral Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Spinach Filling
Start by preheating your oven and prepping your spinach if using frozen—make sure it’s thawed and drained well. Then sauté your onions and garlic in a bit of olive oil until soft and fragrant. Add your spinach along with salt, pepper, and a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Cook until no excess liquid remains, which ensures your filling won’t be soggy after baking.
Step 2: Mixing the Cheeses and Aromatics
Once the spinach has cooled slightly, transfer it to a large bowl and add the crumbled goat cheese or feta, grated cheddar, beaten egg, fresh parsley, toasted pine nuts, and a pinch of nutmeg. Mixing these thoroughly is key because you want every bite of the Spanakopita Spiral Recipe to have a perfect balance of creamy, nutty, and herbal notes.
Step 3: Assembling the Spanakopita Spiral
Brush the bottom of your pie dish generously with olive oil to prevent sticking. Lay two filo sheets on a clean surface, brushing each generously with melted butter or olive oil. Spread about four tablespoons of your spinach mixture along the edge, leaving a bit of border. Roll it up tightly into a tube, then place the tube into your prepared dish, curling it into a spiral shape starting from the center outwards. Continue this process with all your remaining filo and filling until the pan is full.
Step 4: Baking it to Perfection
Brush the whole spiral with olive oil one more time to encourage that irresistible golden color and crispy texture. Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is a stunning golden brown and the filling is set. Let it rest before slicing so your Spanakopita Spiral Recipe holds together beautifully.
How to Serve Spanakopita Spiral Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and flavor, consider topping your slices with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a light dusting of crumbled feta. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil also adds a glossy finish and an extra layer of richness. These simple garnishes make the dish feel even more special and inviting.
Side Dishes
The Spanakopita Spiral Recipe pairs wonderfully with fresh, crisp salads like a Greek salad or a lemony cucumber and tomato salad. Roasted vegetables or a light tzatziki dip can also complement the richness of the spiral, making for a rounded Mediterranean meal that feels both satisfying and bright.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the spiral as a centerpiece at your next gathering by placing it on a large serving platter with colorful salads arranged around it. You can also cut the spiral into individual portions and arrange them on a charcuterie board with olives, hummus, and pita for a casual yet elegant appetizer spread. The spiral shape itself makes it visually stunning and inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Spanakopita Spiral Recipe, wrap any leftovers tightly in foil or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days and maintain much of its original texture and flavor—perfect for quick lunches or snacks.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked spanakopita spiral after it has fully cooled. Wrap it well with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn and store it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results before reheating.
Reheating
To bring back that crispy pastry texture and warm, melty filling, reheat your leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep the filo wonderfully flaky and crunchy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess moisture before cooking to avoid soggy filling.
What kind of cheese works best in the filling?
Traditional recipes call for feta, but blending goat cheese cream and cheddar adds creaminess and a little extra flavor depth. Feel free to adjust to your taste preferences.
How long does spanakopita spiral keep after baking?
When properly stored, it lasts in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it great for meal prep or easy leftovers.
Can I make the spanakopita spiral vegan?
Yes, by substituting the cheeses with vegan alternatives and using olive oil instead of butter, you can enjoy a delicious plant-based version of this classic dish.
Is it necessary to use filo pastry?
Filo is essential for the signature flaky, crispy layers. Puff pastry won’t give quite the same delicate texture but can be used as a substitute in a pinch.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about the Spanakopita Spiral Recipe — its golden, crisp exterior paired with the rich, flavorful filling makes every bite feel like a celebration of Mediterranean cooking. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or simply indulging yourself, this recipe is a fantastic way to bring warmth, comfort, and a touch of adventure to your table. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a beloved favorite in your kitchen!
PrintSpanakopita Spiral Recipe
Experience the delightful layers and perfect crispiness of a Spanakopita Spiral, a traditional Greek savory pastry filled with sautéed spinach, mixed cheeses, and toasted pine nuts, all wrapped in flaky filo dough and baked to golden perfection.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Sautéed Spinach
- 1 – 1½ lbs (350 g) Spinach
- 1 medium Onion, chopped
- 2 large Garlic cloves, minced
- ½ tsp Kosher salt
- ½ tsp Black pepper powder
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice
Spinach Filling
- ½ cup (113 g) Goat cheese cream or feta
- 1½ cup (225 g) Feta cheese, crumbled
- ½ cup (60 g) Cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 large Egg, beaten
- 1 cup Parsley, chopped
- ½ cup (67.5 g) Pine nuts, toasted
- ⅛ tsp pinch of Nutmeg
Additional
- 16 sheets (304 g) Filo pastry
- ½ cup (120 ml) Olive oil or melted butter, for brushing
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C, Gas Mark 5). Make sure to thaw frozen spinach if using and drain any excess liquid to avoid sogginess.
- Sauté the Spinach Mixture: Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until translucent and fragrant. Add the spinach, stirring occasionally, until wilted. Season with kosher salt and black pepper, add lemon juice, then increase the heat to high and cook until all liquid evaporates. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Prepare the Filling: Transfer the cooked spinach mixture to a large bowl. Crumble goat cheese or feta, add crumbled feta cheese, grated cheddar, beaten egg, chopped parsley, toasted pine nuts, nutmeg, and mix everything well to combine.
- Assemble the Spanakopita Spiral: Brush the bottom of a 9-inch pie pan or 9×13 baking dish with olive oil. On a work surface, lay two sheets of filo pastry, brushing each sheet generously with melted butter or olive oil. Spread about four tablespoons of the spinach filling evenly over the top filo layer, leaving a 2-inch border. Roll the pastry over the filling into a long tube starting from one end to the other.
- Form the Spiral: Place the filled pastry roll into the oiled pie pan and coil it into a spiral shape starting from the center outward. Repeat the process with the remaining filo sheets and filling, arranging each rolled coil snugly around the previous one until the pan is full. Tuck any excess filo dough neatly around the edges.
- Final Touch and Baking: Brush the top layer of the assembled pastry generously with olive oil to ensure a golden, crispy crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, until the spanakopita turns golden brown and the filling is set.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes. Cut into squares or triangles and serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Make sure to drain the spinach thoroughly to prevent soggy pastry.
- You can substitute cheeses according to preference, but traditional feta provides authentic flavor.
- Brush each filo pastry sheet carefully with butter or olive oil to achieve a crispy texture.
- Use fresh parsley for maximum flavor.
- This dish can be served as an appetizer, snack, or light meal.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven for crispiness.
