There’s a certain joy that comes from creating something delightful in the kitchen, especially when the aroma of baked goods wafts through the air. Recently, while contemplating new vegetarian appetizers for a gathering, I stumbled upon a cherished recipe—Spinach Fatayer. These flaky hand pies are not only a feast for the senses but also a celebration of Middle Eastern flavors that I absolutely adore.
With their crispy phyllo dough crust cradling a savory blend of fresh spinach, tender onions, and zesty herbs, they’re the perfect antidote to the mundane. Whether served warm or at room temperature, these scrumptious bites promise to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings for homemade goodness.
I love their versatility too! You can easily make them your own by adding a sprinkle of cheese or tossing in your favorite vegetables. Plus, they’re freezer-friendly, making them an excellent meal prep option for busy days. Let’s dive into how to make these irresistible Spinach Fatayer and bring a taste of the Levant right to your table!
Why are Spinach Fatayer a must-try?
Irresistible Flavor: These hand pies offer a delightful fusion of flaky phyllo dough and a savory spinach filling that bursts with fresh flavors.
Easy Prep: You can whip these up in no time, making them perfect for any occasion or last-minute gatherings.
Versatile Options: Customize your filling with cheese or extra veggies for a personal touch; the possibilities are endless!
Freezer-Friendly: Make a batch and freeze them for busy days—just bake from frozen when you need a quick, satisfying meal.
Crowd-Pleaser: Serve these delicious pastries as appetizers or snacks, and watch them disappear in no time! For a fresh twist, pair them with a side of tangy yogurt or tahini sauce—just like with my Savory Turkey Blt.
Spinach Fatayer Ingredients
Get ready to create these delightful hand pies!
For the Dough
- Phyllo Dough – Provides a light and flaky crust; remember to keep the sheets covered to maintain moisture.
For the Filling
- Fresh Spinach (2 cups, chopped) – The star of your filling, rich in vitamins; can substitute with other greens like Swiss chard for a different taste.
- Onion (1 cup, finely chopped) – Adds sweetness and depth; try shallots for a milder flavor.
- Parsley (1/2 cup, chopped) – Brightens the flavor and adds freshness; include it for an extra zest.
- Olive Oil (1/4 cup) – Essential for richness and moisture; melted butter works well as a substitute too.
- Salt (1 teaspoon) – A must for enhancing flavor and balance.
- Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon) – Adds a slight kick; feel free to adjust based on your preference.
- Sumac (1 teaspoon) – Brings an authentic Middle Eastern tanginess; lemon zest can work in place of sumac if needed.
- Lemon Juice (1/2 teaspoon) – Enhances freshness and overall flavor balance in your Spinach Fatayer.
Enjoy the process, and prepare to savor every delicious bite!
How to Make Spinach Fatayer
- Prepare the Filling: Begin by sautéing the finely chopped onions in olive oil over medium heat until they become soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the chopped spinach, parsley, spices, and lemon juice, stirring until well combined. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
- Assemble the Hand Pies: Unroll the phyllo dough and keep it covered to prevent drying. Cut the sheets into squares, about 4×4 inches. Place a spoonful of the cooled filling in the center of each square. Fold the dough over the filling to form triangles, pressing the edges to seal them tightly.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the assembled hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops lightly with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: After baking, allow the Spinach Fatayer to cool slightly on a wire rack. Enjoy them warm with a side of yogurt or tahini sauce for dipping!
Optional: Sprinkle with sesame seeds before baking for added texture and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Spinach Fatayer
- Keep Dough Covered: Always cover phyllo dough with a damp cloth or plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out while you work.
- Cool the Filling: Let the spinach filling cool completely before sealing the pies. This prevents the dough from becoming soggy and helps maintain crispness.
- Perfectly Brush the Tops: A light brush of olive oil helps achieve that golden, flaky finish; don’t skimp! Just ensure you don’t over-brown them while baking.
- Size Matters: When cutting phyllo squares, aim for uniform sizes around 4×4 inches. This ensures even cooking and consistent results with every Spinach Fatayer.
- Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to add crumbled feta or your favorite veggies for an extra flavor bomb. Just remember to adjust seasoning accordingly!
- Freezer Tips: To freeze, assemble the hand pies and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. Bake from frozen when you’re ready to enjoy!
What to Serve with Spinach Fatayer?
Warm, flaky, and bursting with flavors, these hand pies are just the starting point of an unforgettable spread.
- Tangy Yogurt Sauce: This cool, creamy dip perfectly complements the warmth of Spinach Fatayer, enhancing each bite with its refreshing tang.
- Mixed Greens Salad: A light, dressed salad adds a crunchy and vibrant contrast, balancing the rich, savory flavors of the hand pies.
For a heartier side, consider pairing it with a thicker salad packed with herbs and lemon. The crispness and acidity will elevate your meal.
- Savory Hummus: Spread or dip into a bowl of rich hummus for a delightful taste of the Mediterranean. Its creamy texture harmonizes beautifully with the flaky pastry.
- Stuffed Grape Leaves: These little bundles of joy offer a delightful, herbaceous flavor that mirrors the essence of the Spinach Fatayer but adds a unique twist to your meal.
- Roasted Vegetable Medley: A dish filled with colorful, caramelized veggies adds both texture and a natural sweetness that complements the earthy spinach.
- Mint Tea: This fragrant herbal tea, either hot or iced, provides a refreshing finish to the meal, cleansing the palate while echoing Middle Eastern flavors.
- Baklava: For dessert, indulge in a slice of sweet, syrupy baklava, creating a perfect finishing note to an authentically inspired evening.
With these accompaniments, your table will not only be full but alive with flavors that sing together beautifully!
Spinach Fatayer Variations
Customize your Spinach Fatayer to suit your taste or dietary needs with these wonderful twists!
- Cheesy Delight: Add crumbled feta or ricotta to the filling for a creamy texture that elevates every bite. The combination of salty cheese and fresh spinach creates a harmonious balance.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even artichokes for added nutrition and flavor. These colorful additions make each hand pie visually stunning and deliciously hearty.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or cilantro to bring a unique and fragrant twist to the filling. Not only do they add flavor, but they also impart a fresh touch that’s simply delightful.
- Spicy Kick: If you love heat, mix in crushed red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeños. This fiery addition transforms your hand pies into a deliciously spicy treat that will delight those who enjoy a little kick.
- Nutty Crunch: Add a sprinkle of pine nuts or walnuts for a lovely textural contrast. The nuttiness pairs beautifully with the spinach and gives each bite an extra layer of flavor.
- Lemon Zest: Enhance the freshness by incorporating lemon zest into your filling. This bright note cuts through the richness and adds a refreshing zing that balances the savory elements perfectly.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap the phyllo dough for gluten-free pastry sheets or use a gluten-free wrap. This enables those with dietary restrictions to enjoy a delicious version of Spinach Fatayer without compromising taste!
- Tropical Twist: For an unexpected surprise, add a touch of diced pineapple or mango into the filling. This sweet element pairs surprisingly well with the savory spinach for an adventurous flavor combination!
How to Store and Freeze Spinach Fatayer
Fridge: Store baked Spinach Fatayer in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow them to cool completely before sealing to maintain their flaky texture.
Freezer: These delightful hand pies can be frozen before baking. Assemble them, then place in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes or until heated through and golden brown. Enjoy a warm bite anytime!
Make-Ahead: You can also prepare the filling a day in advance and refrigerate it, making your cooking process quick and easy when it’s time to assemble and bake.
Spinach Fatayer Recipe FAQs
What type of spinach should I use for my Spinach Fatayer?
Absolutely! Fresh spinach is the go-to for this recipe, as it provides an optimal flavor and texture. Look for vibrant, dark green leaves without any dark spots or wilting. If fresh spinach is unavailable, Swiss chard or kale can be a great substitute—just make sure to chop them finely and adjust the cooking time slightly.
How can I store leftover Spinach Fatayer?
Very good question! To keep your baked Spinach Fatayer delicious, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to let them cool completely before sealing to maintain that lovely flaky texture you worked so hard to achieve.
Can Spinach Fatayer be frozen?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled Spinach Fatayer before baking. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until they are firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them straight from the freezer at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden and piping hot.
What if my phyllo dough tears while assembling the Fatayer?
No worries! Phyllo dough can be delicate. If you tear a sheet, simply layer another piece on top to patch it up. Just remember to keep the remaining sheets covered with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying while you work. The more layers, the flakier and tastier your hand pies will be!
Are there any dietary considerations for Spinach Fatayer?
Definitely! These Spinach Fatayer are vegetarian-friendly and can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free phyllo dough. If you have any allergies, be cautious with your filling; for example, you can omit nuts or use lactose-free cheese if adding. Always check ingredient sources to ensure they’re safe for your dietary needs.
How long can I make the filling ahead of time?
You can prepare the filling a day in advance! Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This makes things super convenient—when you’re ready to make your Spinach Fatayer, you can jump straight into assembling and baking them without the extra cooking step. Just allow it to come to room temperature before filling the dough.
Irresistible Spinach Fatayer: Delicious Levantine Hand Pies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Filling: Sauté the finely chopped onions in olive oil over medium heat until soft, about 5-7 minutes. Add chopped spinach, parsley, spices, and lemon juice, stirring until well combined. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
- Assemble the Hand Pies: Unroll the phyllo dough and keep covered. Cut sheets into squares, about 4x4 inches. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each square. Fold the dough to form triangles, pressing edges to seal.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush tops with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Serve: Allow to cool slightly on a wire rack. Enjoy warm with yogurt or tahini sauce.
Notes
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