Athenian Spiral

The Athenian Spiral, also known as "Spanakopita", is a traditional Greek pastry that has been enjoyed for centuries. This delightful savory pie is characterized by its spiral shape and layers of flaky phyllo dough filled with a rich mixture of spinach, feta cheese, and fresh herbs. Originating from Greece, spanakopita has become a beloved dish across the Mediterranean and the world, often served as a snack, appetizer, or even as a main dish.

Ingredients

• Phyllo dough - 1 package, thawed
• Olive oil - 1/2 cup
• Spinach - 2 pounds, fresh and washed
• Feta cheese - 1 cup, crumbled
• Onion - 1 large, finely chopped
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Dill - 1/4 cup, chopped
• Parsley - 1/4 cup, chopped
• Nutmeg - 1/4 teaspoon
• Salt - to taste
• Pepper - to taste
• Egg - 1, lightly beaten

Preparation

To prepare the flavorful filling for the Athenian Spiral, begin by chopping the spinach. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they are fragrant and translucent. Introduce the spinach into the skillet, cooking until it wilts and most of the moisture evaporates. Transfer the mixture to a bowl to cool. Once cooled, add the feta cheese, dill, parsley, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir in the beaten egg until everything is well combined.

Assembling the Athenian Spiral

Handling phyllo dough requires attention, as it is delicate and tends to dry quickly. Unroll the phyllo dough and cover it with a damp kitchen towel to keep it moist. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush a sheet of phyllo with olive oil and layer another sheet on top, repeating this process for about 5 layers per roll. Place a strip of the spinach mixture along the edge of the prepared stack, maintaining a uniform thickness. Gently roll the dough over the filling to form a long log. Coil the log into a spiral shape on a greased baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining phyllo dough and filling until you have a complete spiral.

Baking the Athenian Spiral

Before placing the Athenian Spiral into the oven, brush it generously with olive oil to encourage a golden finish during baking. Put the spiral in the oven for approximately 45 minutes, or until it turns a crispy, golden brown and the phyllo is thoroughly baked. Utilize a cooking timer to ensure precision. Once baked to your satisfaction, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few moments before slicing.

How to Enjoy

Serve the Athenian Spiral warm as an appetizer or as a centerpiece for a Mediterranean meal. Pair it with a side of tzatziki sauce for a refreshing contrast or a simple salad of cucumbers and tomatoes dressed in olive oil and lemon juice. This versatile dish is perfect for picnics, gatherings, or as a flavorful snack. Experience the rich blend of buttery phyllo and herby, cheesy spinach filling that captures the essence of Greek cuisine in every bite.