Spanakopitas

Sounds like Greek? Well it is Greek! :D Spanakopitas is a Spinach and Feta Cheese Pie or Phyllo triangles stuffed with a Spinach and Feta mixture.

The first time I had Spanakopitas was at an annual Greek festival here in Atlanta.

You will need: (Makes 24-26 triangles)

1 lb Spinach, thoroughly washed and chopped
1 stick (1/2 cup) plus 1 tbsp Butter
1/2 Cup Feta cheese, crumbled
¼ tsp Ground Nutmeg
20 Phyllo sheets, thawed
½ Cup chopped scallions (white and green)
Salt and pepper

Melt 1 tbsp of Butter in a pan. Add the chopped scallions and sauté for a minute. Add the chopped spinach and cokk till wilted down, about 4 minutes. Season with nutmeg and pepper. Stir in the feta cheese and turn off heat. Let the mixture cool completely. Taste and season with salt, only if required( Feta is salty)

While working with Phyllo sheets always remember to keep them covered, first with two overlapping layers of plastic wrap and then a damp paper towel on top. Phyllo sheets tend to dry up very quickly and once they are dry they crumble instantly and cannot be used.

Melt the remaining butter. Take one phyllo sheet and apply the melted butter using a pastry brush. Place another sheet on top and then cut the sheet into 6 strips. Place the narrow end of the strip towards you, and then place about a tbsp of the cooled filling. Fold one corner over the filling and fold upward to close the triangle. Continue folding till the entire strip is folded.

Place on a baking sheet. Brush the tops with melted butter. Bake for 20-25 minutes till golden brown.

Spanakopitas make excellent appetizers and are best when eaten hot.

Greek Festival

My husband and I went to a Greek festival last month, held every year by the Greek Church here in Atlanta. I was very eager to get my first taste of Greek food. The festival showcased Greek heritage and culture, through their elaborate costumes, dances and the delicious food.

We tried Spanakopitas and Saganaki (also called Greek Flaming Cheese) - which is nothing but Feta or Kasseri cheese deep fried and served with a drizzle of brandy on top. The brandy is usually lit up before serving and a friendly cheer "Opa" resounds through the gathering before the cheese is eaten.

Spanakopitas is a spinach and feta cheese pie. Made with phyllo dough, its a light and tasty appetizer.

Pita Bread, Hummus and Spanakopitas

Saganaki (Greek Flaming Cheese)

The traditional dance

"The May Pole" Dance

It was a pleasant evening and I was really glad that we went to this festival. It was good to get a feel of another country's culture and food.

I made Spanakopitas recently, that's coming up in the next post.