golden brown spanakopita with za'atar bread on a rustic wooden table

Spanakopita

spanakopita and za'atar bread: a flavorful mediterranean feast

By:

Savory Touch

Published:

10 Jul 2025
golden brown spanakopita with za'atar bread on a rustic wooden table
Ever find yourself yearning for a taste of the Mediterranean? Imagine flaky, golden layers of phyllo pastry embracing a savory spinach and feta filling, all while the aromatic scent of za'atar-spiced bread wafts through the air. Spanakopita, that irresistible Greek spinach pie, paired with crusty, herby za'atar bread, creates an experience that’s both comforting and exciting. I remember a trip to Greece where I first tasted authentic Spanakopita, sitting by the Aegean Sea; it was magical. This recipe tries to recapture that feeling. It’s surprisingly simpler than you think, and the end result is something truly special. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delightful combination!
overhead shot of a freshly baked spanakopita with golden crust
The secret to a truly fantastic spanakopita lies in the quality of the ingredients and the layering of the phyllo dough. Don't skimp on the butter – it's what gives the pastry that signature flakiness. As for the za'atar bread, using high-quality za'atar spice is key. I once tried making it with a subpar spice blend, and the difference was night and day! Trust me on this one. And don't be intimidated by phyllo dough; with a little patience and a damp towel, you'll be a pro in no time. The dough is very easy to work with so don't stress to much.
close-up of za'atar bread with herbs and spices visible

Required Equipments

  • Large Bowl
  • Baking Dish (9x13 inch)
  • Rolling Pin
  • Pastry Brush
  • Skillet
  • Parchment Paper

Spanakopita and Za'atar Bread: A Flavorful Mediterranean Feast: Frequently Asked Questions

Spanakopita and Za'atar Bread: A Flavorful Mediterranean Feast

This Spanakopita & Za'atar Bread recipe brings the taste of the Mediterranean to your kitchen. Enjoy layers of flaky phyllo pastry filled with savory spinach and feta, alongside crusty za'atar-spiced bread for a complete and unforgettable meal.

⏳ Yield & Time

Yield: 8 servings servings

Preparation Time: 45 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Total Time:

🍽 Ingredients

📖 Instructions

  1. Prepare the Spinach Filling: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Don't burn the garlic, or you'll regret it.
  2. Add Spinach and Season: Add the thawed and squeezed spinach to the skillet. Cook until wilted and any excess moisture has evaporated, about 5-10 minutes. Season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed; this is crucial!
  3. Combine Filling Ingredients: Remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the spinach mixture to a large bowl. Let it cool slightly. Add the crumbled feta cheese, beaten eggs, chopped fresh dill, and chopped fresh parsley to the bowl. Mix well to combine all ingredients thoroughly. This mixture should smell amazing!
  4. Prepare the Phyllo Dough: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil. Unroll the phyllo dough and keep it covered with a damp towel to prevent it from drying out. Seriously, don't skip the damp towel step!
  5. Layer the Phyllo Dough: Place one sheet of phyllo dough in the prepared baking dish. Brush it lightly with melted butter. Repeat this process with 5 more sheets of phyllo dough, layering them on top of each other and brushing each sheet with butter. This creates the base of your spanakopita.
  6. Add the Filling: Spread the spinach and feta filling evenly over the phyllo dough base. Make sure it's evenly distributed for consistent flavor in every bite.
  7. Top with Phyllo Layers: Layer the remaining phyllo dough sheets on top of the filling, brushing each sheet with melted butter as you go. Use about 6-8 sheets for the top layer. This part can get a little messy, but it's worth it!
  8. Score and Bake: Use a sharp knife to score the top layers of phyllo dough into squares or diamonds. This makes it easier to cut and serve after baking. Brush the top layer generously with melted butter. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the phyllo dough is golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
  9. Cool and Serve: Remove the spanakopita from the oven and let it cool for about 10-15 minutes before cutting and serving. This allows the filling to set slightly. Serve warm and enjoy!

📝 Notes

  • For an extra crispy crust, brush the top with a mixture of melted butter and olive oil before baking.
  • Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the spinach mixture for brightness.
  • Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt or tzatziki sauce for a cooling contrast.

🍎 Nutrition

Calories: 350 kcal

Protein: 15g

Fat: 20g

Carbohydrates: 30g

Fiber: 3g

Calcium: 250mg

The kitchen is a place of joy, where flavors dance and memories are made. – Elias Thorne

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