Air Fryer Spanakopita Recipe: A Healthy and Crispy Greek Spinach

The Air Fryer Spanakopita Recipe offers a quick and healthy way to enjoy the classic Greek pastry without deep-frying. Traditional spanakopita is made with flaky phyllo dough, stuffed with a savory mixture of spinach, feta cheese, onions, and herbs. In this air fryer version, the phyllo dough becomes crisp and golden without the need for excessive oil. To make, start by sautéing the spinach and onions, then combine them with crumbled feta, dill, and a touch of nutmeg for flavor. Lay out sheets of phyllo dough, brushing each layer with a little olive oil or butter. Spoon the spinach filling onto the dough and fold it into triangles. Preheat the air fryer and cook the spanakopita at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes until they are golden and crispy. This Air Fryer Spanakopita Recipe is perfect for a quick snack, appetizer, or even a light meal. It’s delicious and requires minimal effort!

Air Fryer Spanakopita Recipe: A Healthy and Crispy Greek Spinach Pie

Spanakopita is a traditional Greek pastry that combines a savory filling of spinach, feta cheese, and herbs wrapped in crisp, golden layers of phyllo dough. This dish is a beloved part of Greek cuisine and can be served as a snack, appetizer, or main course. Traditionally baked in an oven, the air fryer has become a popular method to prepare this crispy delicacy in a quicker and healthier way. The air fryer offers the perfect balance of crispiness and tenderness while using less oil compared to conventional frying or baking methods.

This Air Fryer Spanakopita recipe offers a delicious, healthier twist on a classic favorite. It’s easy to prepare, quick to cook, and yields a golden, flaky pastry with a flavorful spinach and feta filling. Whether you’re looking for a lighter snack or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this air fryer version of Spanakopita is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients:

For the filling:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 10 ounces fresh spinach (or 1 bag of pre-washed spinach)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon dried dill (optional)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup ricotta cheese (optional, for creaminess)

For the pastry:

• 10-12 sheets of phyllo dough
• 1/4 cup melted butter or olive oil (for brushing)

Equipment:

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowls
• Pastry brush
• Knife and chopping board
• Spoon for stirring
• Small bowl for melted butter or olive oil

Nutrition Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 180-220
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 300mg

Prep Time:

20 minutes

Active Time:

15 minutes

Resting Time:

None

Total Time:

35 minutes

Servings:

Makes 8-10 small pieces (depending on size)

Cuisines:

Greek, Mediterranean

Course:

Appetizer, Snack, Main Course

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Spinach Filling:
   Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it.
2. Wilt the Spinach:
   Add the fresh spinach to the skillet in batches, stirring constantly to wilt the leaves. If you’re using fresh spinach, it will shrink down considerably. Once all the spinach has wilted, cook for another 2 minutes, allowing any excess moisture to evaporate.
3. Season the Filling:
   Season the spinach mixture with salt, black pepper, oregano, and dill (if using). Stir in the lemon juice and then remove the skillet from the heat. Allow the mixture to cool for a few minutes.
4. Mix the Cheese Filling:
   Once the spinach mixture has cooled slightly, transfer it to a mixing bowl. Add the crumbled feta cheese and ricotta cheese (if using). Stir to combine until you have a well-blended filling. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
5. Prepare the Phyllo Dough:
   Lay out a clean, dry kitchen towel on a flat surface to keep your phyllo dough covered while you work with it. Take one sheet of phyllo dough at a time and place it on the towel. Brush the top with melted butter or olive oil using a pastry brush. Layer 3-4 sheets of phyllo dough, brushing each layer with butter or oil, to ensure a crisp and flaky result.
6. Assemble the Spanakopita:
   Once you’ve layered and brushed the phyllo dough, place a generous spoonful of the spinach and cheese mixture at one end of the dough. Roll the dough up tightly around the filling, folding in the sides as you go to create a neat, sealed pocket. If you prefer, you can cut the dough into smaller squares or triangles before rolling them.
7. Prepare for Air Frying:
   Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray or brush the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking. Place the rolled or folded spanakopita pieces into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Be sure not to overcrowd them so that they cook evenly.
8. Air Fry the Spanakopita:
   Cook the spanakopita at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until the phyllo is golden brown and crispy. If you’re making multiple batches, you can keep the cooked spanakopita warm in a low-temperature oven (around 200°F) while you finish air frying the rest.
9. Serve:
   Once cooked, remove the spanakopita from the air fryer and serve immediately with a side of tzatziki or your favorite Greek-style dipping sauce. These crispy, flaky pastries are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days.

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Tips for Success:

• Use fresh spinach for the best flavor and texture. If you use frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to remove any excess moisture.
• If you have trouble working with phyllo dough, make sure to keep it covered with a damp towel while you assemble the spanakopita to prevent it from drying out.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the spanakopita filling and phyllo rolls ahead of time, then store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before air frying. Just be sure to brush the phyllo with butter or oil just before air frying.
• Variations: You can add other herbs like parsley or mint to the filling for extra flavor, or even incorporate pine nuts or olives for added texture and richness.

Why Air Fryer Spanakopita?

The air fryer creates a perfect crispy crust while using much less oil than deep frying, making this recipe a healthier alternative to traditional versions. The air fryer is also faster, requiring less time for preheating and cooking, and ensures that the pastry turns out light and flaky without the mess of deep frying.

Health Benefits:

Spanakopita is a great way to incorporate leafy greens into your diet. Spinach is rich in iron, calcium, and vitamins A and C, providing many essential nutrients. Additionally, feta cheese offers protein and calcium, while the use of olive oil adds heart-healthy fats to the dish. By using the air fryer, you’re significantly reducing the amount of oil needed, making this a lower-calorie version of a classic Greek pastry.

Conclusion:

This Air Fryer Spanakopita recipe is an easy and healthy way to enjoy a classic Greek dish. With its crispy phyllo crust and flavorful spinach and feta filling, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a quick snack or a gathering with friends, this air fryer version will delight your taste buds with a fraction of the calories and time. Enjoy this Mediterranean favorite without the guilt!