Spanakopita, the classic Greek spinach and feta pie, is beloved for its rich, savory flavors wrapped in delicate layers of pastry. This recipe takes the traditional spanakopita and gives it a modern twist by turning it into a beautiful puff pastry braid. The flaky, buttery puff pastry perfectly complements the flavorful spinach and cheese filling, making it an impressive yet easy dish to prepare. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, a main course, or a side dish, this Spanakopita Puff Pastry Braid is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- ½ cup olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 cup scallions, chopped
- ½ cup fresh dill, finely chopped
- 2 (10-ounce) packages of frozen chopped spinach, thawed and thoroughly drained
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces feta cheese, crumbled by hand
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed (approximately 10×15 inches)
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and scallions, and sauté until they are soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the finely chopped dill to the skillet, stirring for another minute to release its aroma.
- Stir in the defrosted and squeezed-dry spinach. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper, and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
- Once the spinach mixture has cooled, stir in the crumbled feta and shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix well until the cheeses are evenly distributed throughout the spinach mixture.
- Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet into a large rectangle, about 10×15 inches.
- Assemble the Braid:
- Spoon the spinach and cheese filling down the center of the puff pastry, leaving about 3 inches of pastry on each side.
- Using a sharp knife, make cuts along both sides of the pastry, about 1 inch apart, creating strips. Make sure not to cut through the filling.
- Begin at one end and fold the strips over the filling, alternating directions to form a braid. Pinch the ends underneath to secure the braid.
- Bake the Braid:
- Brush the top of the braid with a little olive oil for extra color and crispiness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and crisp.
- Serve:
- Allow the braid to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm, either as an appetizer, a side dish, or a light main course.
Conclusion
Indulge in a sophisticated twist on spanakopita with this Spanakopita Puff Pastry Braid. This recipe features a beautifully braided puff pastry enveloping a savory mix of spinach, feta, and mozzarella. The result is a crispy, flaky exterior that contrasts perfectly with the creamy, flavorful filling inside. Ideal for impressing guests or enjoying a special treat, this dish combines elegant presentation with irresistible taste. Serve it at your next event and enjoy how quickly it vanishes from the table!