If you're looking for a delicious and savory snack, look no further than 2 pieces (57 g) of Spanakopita. This traditional Greek dish features a flaky pastry filled with spinach and feta cheese. And the best part? Each serving is only 110 calories!

Spanakopita is not just a tasty snack, it's also a nutritious one. Each serving contains 7g of protein, 10% of your daily iron needs, and 20% of your daily vitamin A needs. It's also a good source of calcium and vitamin C.

In this article, we'll explore some practical tips and strategies for enjoying Spanakopita, as well as its various health benefits.

The ingredients of Spanakopita

Traditional Spanakopita is made with a variety of delicious ingredients. These include: - Phyllo dough - Spinach - Feta cheese - Eggs - Onion - Garlic - Olive oil - Dill - Salt and pepper Some variations may include additional ingredients like lemon juice or pine nuts.

Nutritional values of Spanakopita

As mentioned earlier, Spanakopita is a nutritious snack option. Here's a breakdown of its nutritional values per 2-piece serving: - calories: 110 - Protein: 7g - Fat: 6g - Carbohydrates: 9g - Fiber: 1g - Sugar: 1g - Iron: 10% - Vitamin A: 20% - Calcium: 4% - Vitamin C: 2% It's important to note that these values may vary depending on the specific recipe used.

Health benefits of Spanakopita

Not only is Spanakopita delicious, it also has several health benefits. Some of these include: - Good source of iron: Spinach is high in iron, which is essential for healthy blood flow and energy levels. - High in protein: Feta cheese and eggs both contain protein, which is important for building and repairing tissues in the body. - Rich in vitamins and minerals: Spanakopita contains several important vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, which supports eye health, and calcium, which is essential for strong bones. Just remember to consume Spanakopita in moderation, as it is still a high-calorie food.

Delicious ways to enjoy Spanakopita

There are plenty of ways to enjoy Spanakopita beyond simply eating it on its own. Here are some ideas to try: - Serve with a side salad for a complete and balanced meal. - Pair with a chilled white wine to complement the flavors. - Use as a filling for a homemade quiche or savory tart. - Cut into smaller pieces and serve as party appetizers. The possibilities are endless!

Serving size and preparation instructions

Of course, it's important to know the proper serving size and how to prepare Spanakopita. Here's what you need to know: - Serving size: 2 pieces (57 g) - Preparation: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Place the Spanakopita on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. You can also prepare Spanakopita ahead of time and freeze for later use.

Tips for making perfect Spanakopita

If you're making Spanakopita at home, here are some tips to ensure it turns out just right: - Use fresh spinach: Fresh spinach has a better flavor and texture than frozen. - Thaw the phyllo dough properly: Phyllo dough needs to be properly thawed before use, or it may tear or become soggy. - Brush with olive oil: Brush each layer of phyllo dough with olive oil to help it stay crispy. - Let cool before cutting: Allow the Spanakopita to cool for a few minutes before cutting, to prevent the filling from spilling out. With these tips, you'll be a Spanakopita pro in no time!

How to store Spanakopita

If you have leftover Spanakopita, it's important to store it properly to maintain its quality. Here's how: - Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. - Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and wrap again in foil. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When reheating Spanakopita, be sure to do so in the oven to help it stay crispy.

Alternatives to Spanakopita

If for some reason you can't or don't want to eat Spanakopita, there are still plenty of other delicious snack and appetizer options you can try. Here are a few ideas: - Antipasto skewers - Stuffed mushrooms - Grilled eggplant rolls - Bacon-wrapped dates - Crostini with roasted red pepper spread Experiment with different recipes to find the perfect snack or appetizer for you!

Frequently asked questions about Spanakopita

Here are some common questions people have about Spanakopita: - What is the history of Spanakopita? Spanakopita has been a staple of Greek cuisine for centuries. - Can I make Spanakopita ahead of time? Yes, Spanakopita can be made ahead of time and frozen for later use. - What other fillings can I use for Spanakopita? Some popular variations include feta and sundried tomatoes, or spinach and mushroom. If you have any other questions, don't hesitate to ask!

Final thoughts on Spanakopita

Spanakopita is a delicious and savory snack that packs a nutritional punch. With its flaky pastry and spinach and feta cheese filling, it's no surprise that it's a favorite in Greek cuisine. And with so many different ways to enjoy it, there's no reason not to give it a try!