Spanakopita is a popular Greek dish that has earned its way into menus of restaurants all over the world. It’s a spinach and feta pie that is enjoyed as a light snack, appetizer, or even as a main course. While the deliciousness of this savory pastry is undeniable, what to pair with it can often be a mystery.
The right accompaniment can elevate this dish to new heights, and we’re here to offer some ideas that will help you make the most out of your spanakopita experience. From salads to dips, we’ve got you covered with some great recommendations that you will love. Keep reading to discover some delicious food pairings that are guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds!
Traditional Sides: A Guide to Accompanying Your Spanakopita
Spanakopita is a delicious Greek dish that’s made with spinach, feta cheese, and phyllo pastry. It’s a popular appetizer or snack that can be enjoyed at any time of day. When it comes to serving spanakopita, there are plenty of traditional sides and accompaniments that can complement this dish and enhance its flavors.
One of the most common traditional sides to serve with spanakopita is a Greek salad. This refreshing dish is made with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, olives, and feta cheese, and is drizzled with a simple olive oil and lemon dressing. Other popular sides include tzatziki, a yogurt-based dip that’s flavored with garlic and fresh herbs, and hummus, a chickpea dip that’s typically served with pita bread. You can also serve spanakopita with hot or cold appetizers like stuffed grape leaves, grilled octopus, or saganaki, a fried cheese that’s flavored with lemon juice and oregano. By pairing your spanakopita with these traditional sides, you can create a complete Greek-themed meal that’s sure to impress your guests.
Mediterranean Pairings: Foods That Compliment Your Spanakopita Perfectly
When it comes to pairing food with Spanakopita, a popular Greek snack made with spinach and feta cheese filling wrapped in crispy phyllo dough, Mediterranean cuisine is your best bet. Mediterranean foods are known for their vibrant flavors and ingredients that perfectly compliment the hearty and savory taste of Spanakopita.
Try pairing your Spanakopita with hummus, tabbouleh, or baba ghanoush for an authentic Mediterranean flavor explosion. The creamy texture of these dips perfectly complements the crispy filling of Spanakopita, while the bold and tangy flavors of garlic, lemon, and olive oil provide a refreshing contrast. You can also pair your Spanakopita with a simple Greek salad or roasted vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers. These dishes are not only tasty but also provide a healthy and nutritious meal that perfectly complements your Spanakopita.
Simple Salads: Refreshing Options to Serve with Your Spanakopita
When it comes to serving a mouthwatering dish like Spanakopita, it’s important to have a range of complementary foods to serve alongside it. One simple yet delicious option is to serve a refreshing salad. A salad can not only add a touch of freshness to your meal, but also provide added nutrients to your diet.
There are plenty of ways to make a salad that complements your Spanakopita. One great option is a Greek salad. With fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, feta cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil, it’s a perfect match for the rich flavors of the Spanakopita. Alternatively, you can go for a simple green salad with sliced cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, and tangy vinaigrette dressing. Whether you opt for a Greek salad or something simpler, a salad is a light and refreshing choice to serve with your Spanakopita.
Beverage Choices: What to Drink with Your Delicious Spanakopita
Beverage choices can make or break the taste of any dish, and the same applies to spanakopita. This classic Greek dish is best complemented by refreshingly light beverages that don’t overpower its flavorful pastry goodness. A traditional way to accompany spanakopita is with a glass of chilled white wine. The crisp acidity and light body of white wine can cut down the richness of the feta cheese and spinach filling and balance the flavors of the dish.
If you prefer non-alcoholic beverages, then lemonade or any citrus-based drink can be an excellent alternative to wine. The acidic tang of lemon and other citrus fruits can also cut through the richness of the pastry and enhance the creamy cheese filling. Besides that, cold beer, iced tea, or even sparkling water are some other beverage options that pair well with spanakopita. Whatever beverage choice you make, make sure it complements the savory flavors of the spanakopita and adds a refreshing touch to your dining experience.
Spanakopita Variations: Recipes to Try Alongside Your Greek Favorite
Spanakopita is a traditional Greek delicacy loved all over the world. This savory pie is made from spinach, feta cheese, and phyllo pastry, and can be enjoyed as a snack or a main course. However, if you’re looking to elevate your spanakopita experience, there are a variety of tasty side dishes that you can try alongside this delicacy.
One popular variation is to serve spanakopita with a side of tzatziki. This refreshing dip is made from Greek yoghurt, cucumber, and garlic, and adds a cool, creamy contrast to the warm and crispy spanakopita. Another delicious option is to serve it with Greek salad. The fresh flavors of tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and feta cheese complement the flavors in the spanakopita perfectly, making for a well-rounded and satisfying meal. Other variations to try include roasted vegetables, olives, or hummus.
Healthy Side Options: Nutritious and Delicious Accompaniments to Spanakopita
Of course, one option is to serve Spanakopita on its own as an appetizer or main course, but adding a side dish can help round out the meal. For those looking to make a healthier choice, there are plenty of nutritious and delicious options that pair well with this classic Greek dish.
One great option is a simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing. This pairs well with the savory and slightly tangy flavors of the Spanakopita and provides some refreshing crunch to the meal. Another great option is a roasted vegetable medley. Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and makes them tender and delicious, creating a great contrast with the crispy phyllo pastry of the Spanakopita. Consider going for colorful options like roasted carrots, sweet potatoes, and red bell peppers to add a pop of color to your plate.
Serving Suggestions: Tips on How to Best Present and Enjoy Your Spanakopita
The presentation of your Spanakopita can make a big difference in how enjoyable it is to eat. To start, consider cutting it into small pieces, either squares or triangles, to make it easier to eat as finger food. You can also serve it alongside other Greek appetizers like tzatziki, hummus, or olives for a complete Greek mezze platter.
For a more substantial meal, Spanakopita can be served with a side salad or roasted vegetables. You could also pair it with grilled chicken or fish to add some protein to the meal. To make your presentation extra special, try garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill or a squeeze of lemon juice. Don’t be afraid to get creative and find your own unique way of serving and enjoying this delicious dish.
Conclusion
In conclusion, spanakopita is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether served as a main course, appetizer or snack, it is a delicious option for vegetarians, meat lovers, and those with gluten-free diets. Its unique blend of flavors and textures make it a perfect addition to any meal.
In addition, spanakopita is not only delicious, but also convenient and easy to prepare. With pre-made phyllo dough and frozen spinach available at most grocery stores, it can be whipped up in a matter of minutes. So, whether you are entertaining guests or simply looking for a satisfying meal, spanakopita is a great choice that is sure to please everyone’s taste buds.