Some dishes are loved not just for their taste, but for the culture they carry. Spanakopita, the flaky spinach-and-cheese pie from Greece, is one of those timeless recipes that has traveled far from its Mediterranean roots. Whether served warm from a village bakery or plated elegantly in a modern bistro, its golden, crunchy layers and savory filling make it a must-try for any food lover.
This blog is your go-to guide for understanding this traditional favorite, from its humble origins to why it’s become a standout dish at the best Greek restaurants in Canada.
The Origins of Spanakopita
Spanakopita has deep roots in Greek culinary history, dating back to ancient Greece and later the Byzantine Empire. These early pies were made with wild greens and herbs, wrapped in homemade dough, a practical way to create nourishing meals with local ingredients.
Over time, as trade routes expanded and ingredients like feta cheese and phyllo dough became staples, spanakopita evolved into the rich, flaky pie we know today. Similar dishes such as börek in Turkish cuisine highlight how this concept of savory pies spread across cultures, but spanakopita remains a distinctly Greek comfort food, cherished in homes and tavernas alike.
What Greek Spanakopita Is Made Of
What makes Greek spanakopita so irresistible? It all starts with phyllo dough: thin, delicate sheets that bake into a crisp, golden crust when layered with olive oil. This flaky exterior wraps around a hearty filling made primarily from spinach or other leafy greens, paired with tangy feta cheese. Some variations may blend in ricotta or kefalotyri for added richness.
To elevate the flavor, the mix often includes onions or scallions, along with fresh herbs like dill, parsley, mint, and a touch of nutmeg. Eggs are used to bind everything together, and extra virgin olive oil brings that signature Mediterranean smoothness.
While every bite feels like tradition, recipes can vary across Greece, with some families adding leeks, wild greens, or different cheese combinations.
Is Spanakopita Healthy?
Many people wonder: Is spanakopita healthy? The answer lies in its wholesome Mediterranean ingredients. The spinach at the heart of Greek spanakopita is rich in iron, fiber, and antioxidants, while the olive oil used in the layering process offers heart-healthy fats known to support cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation.
Feta cheese and eggs bring a solid dose of protein and calcium, making spanakopita not just delicious, but also nutrient-dense. This balance of greens, healthy fats, and lean protein aligns perfectly with the Mediterranean diet, which is widely praised for supporting heart health and longevity.
How Greek Spanakopita Is Made
Making Greek spanakopita is a labor of love, but the process is what gives this dish its irresistible texture and flavor. It all begins with the filling, a savory mixture of sautéed spinach (or sometimes a blend of leafy greens), chopped onions or scallions, fresh herbs like dill and parsley, creamy feta cheese, and eggs to bind everything together.
Once the filling is ready, thin sheets of phyllo dough are carefully layered in a baking dish. Each layer is brushed generously with olive oil or melted butter to achieve that signature golden flakiness. The spinach and cheese mixture is spread in the center before being topped with more phyllo sheets and brushed again for that perfect crisp.
The pie is then baked until the crust turns golden and flaky, and the filling is tender and aromatic. For home cooks, spanakopita can be prepared as a large tray pie or shaped into individual triangles. Modern shortcuts like using frozen spinach or pre-made phyllo sheets can save time without compromising flavor.
Where to Eat Spanakopita in Canada
If you’re wondering where to eat spanakopita in Canada, skip the frozen aisle and go straight to the source, Souvlaki Authentique. Known for bringing true Greek flavors to Québec, this restaurant offers one of the most satisfying spanakopita experiences you can find outside of Greece. Their version is fresh, flaky, and baked to golden perfection, just the way it’s meant to be.
Homemade vs. Restaurant-Made
While making Greek spanakopita at home is rewarding, it takes time, patience, and a good handle on phyllo dough. At Souvlaki Authentique, you’re getting an expertly prepared dish that’s been perfected in a professional kitchen. Their chefs use authentic recipes that balance spinach, feta, herbs, and buttery phyllo, so you can enjoy all the richness and tradition of this Greek classic, without doing the dishes.
Why Souvlaki Authentique?
Unlike generic diners or fusion places, Souvlaki Authentique focuses solely on authentic Greek food. This commitment is reflected in every bite of their spanakopita, a dish that’s as comforting as it is flavorful. Whether you’re craving it as a starter or just want something warm, flaky, and rich in Mediterranean flavor, this is a must-try.
Conclusion
From its flaky layers to its hearty spinach and feta filling, Greek spanakopita is more than just a pie; it’s a beloved staple of Mediterranean cuisine. If you’re searching for where to eat spanakopita in Canada, head to Souvlaki Authentique.
With multiple locations across Québec, it’s the best Greek restaurant in Canada to enjoy this classic dish, made fresh and served with heart.
