There’s something downright magical about the flaky, buttery crunch of spanakopita paired with that vibrant, tangy filling. This Easy Spanakopita Triangles Recipe hits all the right notes—simple to make, yet bursting with fresh herbs and creamy feta that just can’t be beat.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
I’ve made spanakopita countless times, and these triangles are by far my favorite version. They’re perfect finger food for parties, yet comforting enough for a cozy night in. Plus, using phyllo dough keeps things light but crispy—a real crowd-pleaser every time.
- Effortless Assembly: Folding these triangles is easier than you might think, making a fancy-looking dish feel totally doable in your own kitchen.
- Fresh, Bright Flavors: The combo of fresh spinach, herbs like dill and parsley, and salty feta is simply unbeatable.
- Versatile Appetizer or Meal: Whether you’re hosting or just want a satisfying snack, these spanakopita triangles fit the bill.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep them ahead and freeze for later, which is a real time saver I appreciate.
Ingredients & Why They Work
Each ingredient in this dish plays a role in building those iconic spanakopita flavors. Freshness is key—especially with the spinach and herbs—to keep the filling lively and light. And the phyllo, well, that’s pure crisp buttery bliss.
- Olive oil: Used for sautéing, it adds richness and helps soften the spinach without overwhelming flavor.
- Fresh spinach leaves: Fresh is best here; it wilts nicely and carries the flavor better than frozen varieties.
- Onion and green onions: They provide sweetness and a subtle sharp bite that balances the filling.
- Garlic: Just a touch to enhance depth without overpowering.
- Fresh parsley and dill: Dill is classic in spanakopita, giving that distinctive bright, herby tone; parsley adds freshness.
- Feta cheese: Crumbled feta brings the unmistakable salty creaminess that’s essential here.
- Egg: Binds everything together and helps keep the filling moist but not runny.
- Phyllo dough sheets: Thin layers that crisp up beautifully when brushed with butter.
- Butter (melted): Coats the phyllo for that golden, flaky finish.
Make It Your Way
One of the joys of this Easy Spanakopita Triangles Recipe is how easy it is to make your own. Sometimes, I swap in a handful of chopped scallions instead of plain green onions or add a pinch of nutmeg to the filling for extra warmth.
- Variation: Occasionally, I toss in some sautéed mushrooms or artichoke hearts for an earthy twist that’s still totally Greek-inspired.
- Dietary tweaks: For a vegetarian crowd, it’s perfect as-is; for vegan, you could try a tofu-based “feta” if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Seasonal extras: In spring, ramps or young garlic can add an extra layer of flavor.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Easy Spanakopita Triangles Recipe
Step 1: Wilt and Prep the Spinach
I start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a big pan, tossing in half the spinach until it wilts down nicely. Then I add the rest and let it all cook for 3-4 minutes. The key here is to cook off any excess moisture so your filling isn’t soggy. Once it’s cool enough, I squeeze as much water out as possible—wringing it tightly—and chop it roughly. Trust me, this step keeps your triangles crisp and not watery.
Step 2: Cook the Onion and Herb Mix
After wiping out the pan, I add the remaining olive oil and soften my onion for about 3-4 minutes. Then, I stir in green onions, garlic, parsley, and dill for just about 30 seconds to release those wonderful aromas without burning the garlic. Letting these flavors meld while still fresh makes the filling special.
Step 3: Combine and Season the Filling
Into a bowl goes the sautéed veggies, chopped spinach, crumbled feta, and beaten egg. I season generously with salt and freshly cracked pepper—taste is your best guide here. Mix it all well until evenly distributed. This filling should be flavorful and well-bound but not soggy.
Step 4: Layer and Cut the Phyllo Dough
Phyllo can be intimidating at first, but keeping it covered with a damp towel as you work prevents drying out. I lay one sheet in front of me, brush it with melted butter, then add a second layer and butter that, too. Then, I slice the layered phyllo into 3-inch strips—this width is perfect for folding without tearing.
Step 5: Fold the Triangles
Here’s the fun part! Spoon about 1 ½ teaspoons of filling onto one end of each strip. Fold one corner over the filling to form a triangle, then keep folding the strip like a flag until you reach the end. Brush the top with more butter for that gorgeous golden finish when baking. Placing your folded triangles on parchment-lined sheets lets them cook beautifully without sticking.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop the trays one at a time into a 375°F oven for about 18-20 minutes. You’re looking for a golden-brown, crisp exterior that cracks and crumbles delightfully. Serve immediately so everyone can enjoy them at their crunchiest!
Top Tip
Over the years, I’ve found a few tricks that really take this Easy Spanakopita Triangles Recipe from good to unforgettable:
- Don’t skip wringing the spinach: Excess moisture is the enemy of crisp phyllo—wring it tight!
- Use fresh herbs: They brighten the filling, making each bite zingier and more authentic.
- Keep phyllo covered: It dries out fast, so always work quickly and keep sheets under a damp towel.
- Butter generously: This ensures that flaky, golden crust that is so addictive—and helps with browning.
How to Serve Easy Spanakopita Triangles Recipe
Garnishes
I like to keep garnishes simple—just a wedge of fresh lemon on the side brightens those rich triangles perfectly. A scattering of chopped dill or parsley on the plate adds a pretty, fresh touch and complements the filling’s herbal notes wonderfully.
Side Dishes
These triangles shine alongside a crisp Greek salad dotted with olives and tomatoes, or a simple tzatziki dip for extra creaminess. I’ve also paired them with roasted veggies or a light orzo pasta salad for a fuller meal.
Creative Ways to Present
When I’m hosting, I like to arrange these spanakopita triangles in a circular fan shape on a platter with little ramekins of lemon yogurt dip or hummus. It’s always a hit, especially around the holidays or for game day gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, where they stay good for up to 2 days. Reheating gently helps restore some of the crispness, but these are best enjoyed fresh.
Freezing
I often freeze these triangles before baking. After folding, I place them on parchment-lined trays, freeze until firm, then transfer to freezer bags. When I want a quick snack, I bake them straight from frozen, just adding a few extra minutes to baking time.
Reheating
To reheat, I pop the triangles in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, which helps them crisp back up. Microwaving is quicker but tends to make the phyllo a bit soggy—oven is definitely best for texture.
Frequently Asked Questions:
You can, but frozen spinach tends to be wetter and requires extra draining and squeezing to avoid soggy triangles. Fresh spinach is preferred for the best flavor and texture in this Easy Spanakopita Triangles Recipe.
Keep the phyllo sheets covered with a damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap while you work. Phyllo dries out very quickly, so only uncover one sheet at a time to keep it pliable and easy to fold.
Absolutely! You can assemble the triangles and freeze them unbaked. Just freeze on a tray until firm, then transfer to bags. Bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for delicious, fresh-baked spanakopita anytime.
They pair beautifully with fresh lemon wedges, Greek salad, tzatziki sauce, or roasted veggies. These spanakopita triangles are versatile enough for appetizers or a light main course paired with simple sides.
Final Thoughts
Honestly, this Easy Spanakopita Triangles Recipe is one I turn to whenever I want to impress without stress. The flaky phyllo, herby spinach filling, and melty feta combine into something that feels special yet approachable. Whether it’s family dinner or hosting friends, these triangles always bring smiles and second helpings—give them a try and you’ll see why!
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Easy Spanakopita Triangles Recipe
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 70 minutes
- Yield: 30 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic Greek spanakopita recipe featuring sautéed spinach, feta cheese, fresh herbs, and seasoning wrapped in crispy, buttery phyllo dough triangles. This savory appetizer or main course is baked until golden brown and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Filling
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided use)
- 2 pounds fresh spinach leaves
- ½ cup onion (finely chopped)
- ½ cup green onions (thinly sliced)
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
- 8 ounces feta cheese (crumbled)
- 1 egg (lightly beaten)
- salt and pepper to taste
Dough & Butter
- 1 pound phyllo dough sheets (thawed)
- ¾ cup butter (melted)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F and line 2 sheet pans with parchment paper to prepare for baking.
- Cook Spinach: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add half the spinach and cook until wilted, then add the remaining spinach. Cook for 3-4 minutes until all spinach is wilted.
- Cool and Chop Spinach: Remove spinach from the pan, let it cool, then wring out excess water and coarsely chop the spinach.
- Sauté Onions and Herbs: Wipe out the pan. Heat the remaining tablespoon olive oil over medium heat, add finely chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in green onions, garlic, parsley, and dill, then cook for 30 seconds more.
- Mix Filling: Transfer the onion mixture to a bowl with chopped spinach, crumbled feta, and beaten egg. Season with salt and pepper generously and stir until combined.
- Prepare Phyllo Dough: Unroll phyllo dough on a flat surface, keeping unused sheets covered with plastic wrap or a damp towel to prevent drying out.
- Layer and Butter Dough: Lay out one sheet of dough with the long side facing you and brush with melted butter. Place a second sheet on top and brush again with butter.
- Cut and Fill Dough Strips: Cut the buttered dough stack vertically into 3-inch wide strips. Place 1 ½ teaspoons of filling at one end of each strip.
- Fold Triangles: Fold one corner over the filling to form a triangle, then continue folding the strip over itself in a flag-folding method until the end is reached. Brush the top with melted butter and place on prepared sheet pan.
- Repeat Folding Process: Repeat folding and placing triangles on the pans, spacing them 1 ½ inches apart.
- Bake Spanakopita: Bake one sheet pan at a time for 20 minutes or until the triangles turn golden brown and crisp.
- Serve: Serve the spanakopita triangles immediately while warm and crispy.
Notes
- Use fresh spinach for best flavor; frozen spinach can be substituted but must be thoroughly drained.
- Cover phyllo dough with a damp towel to keep it from drying out while working.
- You can adjust the amount of herbs to your taste for flavor variations.
- Butter or olive oil can be brushed on the dough to yield a crispier texture.
- These triangles can be made ahead of time and baked just before serving for convenience.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 72 kcal
- Sugar: 0.5 g
- Sodium: 127 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 24 mg
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