Crispy and Flavorful: Air Fryer Spanakopita Recipe
Spanakopita, a traditional Greek dish made with layers of flaky phyllo dough and a savory spinach and cheese filling, is a beloved appetizer or snack enjoyed by many. In this recipe, we’re putting a modern twist on this classic dish by using the air fryer to achieve that perfect crispy texture without all the hassle of deep-frying. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a delicious snack, these Air Fryer Spanakopita bites are sure to impress. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 2 (10-ounce) packages Frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 clove Garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup Feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup Mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tablespoon Fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other Ingredients:
- 1 (1-pound) package Phyllo dough, thawed
- 1/2 cup Unsalted butter, melted
- Tzatziki sauce, for serving
Instructions:
- Prepare Spinach Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed and drained spinach, minced garlic, crumbled feta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to combine.
- Assemble Spanakopita:
- Lay out one sheet of phyllo dough on a clean work surface. Brush the entire sheet with melted butter. Place another sheet of phyllo dough on top and brush with butter. Repeat this process until you have a stack of 5-6 phyllo sheets.
- Cut the stacked phyllo dough into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference.
- Place a spoonful of the spinach mixture in the center of each phyllo square. Fold the corners of the phyllo dough over the filling to create a triangle shape. Press the edges together to seal.
- Air Fry Spanakopita:
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (180°C).
- Place the assembled spanakopita triangles in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching each other.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes, or until the spanakopita are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve:
- Remove the spanakopita from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the air fryer spanakopita warm with tzatziki sauce for dipping.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Phyllo Dough Handling: Phyllo dough can dry out quickly, so be sure to keep it covered with a damp kitchen towel while you’re working with it to prevent it from becoming brittle.
- Filling Variations: Feel free to customize the filling to your liking. You can add ingredients like chopped onions, sun-dried tomatoes, or pine nuts for extra flavor.
- Make Ahead: You can assemble the spanakopita ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to air fry. Just be sure to brush them with butter just before air frying.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the garlic if you prefer a milder flavor, or replace it with minced shallots for a slightly sweeter taste.
Keto and Low-Carb Version:
For a keto-friendly or low-carb version of this recipe, you can make the following adjustments:
- Phyllo Dough Substitute: Instead of traditional phyllo dough, use almond flour or coconut flour-based dough to make keto-friendly spanakopita.
- Cheese Choices: Stick to low-carb cheeses such as feta, mozzarella, and Parmesan for the filling.
- Butter Substitute: Use ghee or olive oil instead of butter for brushing the phyllo dough.
With its crispy exterior and flavorful spinach and cheese filling, these Air Fryer Spanakopita bites are sure to be a hit at your next gathering or as a tasty snack any time of day. By using the air fryer, you can enjoy all the deliciousness of traditional spanakopita with a fraction of the effort and calories. So fire up your air fryer and give this recipe a try – your taste buds will thank you
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can absolutely use fresh spinach for this recipe. Simply wilt the fresh spinach in a skillet with a little olive oil until it’s fully cooked and then proceed with the recipe as instructed.
2. Can I freeze the spanakopita before air frying?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled spanakopita triangles before air frying them. Place the assembled triangles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag and store for up to 1 month. When ready to cook, air fry them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
3. What other sauces can I serve with spanakopita?
In addition to tzatziki sauce, spanakopita pairs well with other Greek-inspired sauces such as hummus, yogurt-based cucumber sauce, or even a simple lemon-garlic aioli.
4. Can I make mini spanakopita instead of triangles?
Absolutely! You can cut the phyllo dough into smaller squares or rectangles and fold them into smaller triangles for bite-sized spanakopita. These mini versions are perfect for appetizers or party platters.
5. Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it does not contain any meat. It’s a delicious option for vegetarians or anyone looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet.
More Tips and Variations:
- Add Some Heat: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the spinach mixture for a spicy kick.
- Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to add other fresh herbs such as parsley, mint, or basil to the spinach filling for added flavor.
- Make it Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, omit the cheese or use dairy-free alternatives such as vegan feta or nutritional yeast.
- Serve with a Salad: Pair your air fryer spanakopita with a fresh Greek salad or tabbouleh for a complete and satisfying meal.
- Try Different Fillings: While spinach and cheese are traditional, you can also experiment with other fillings such as sautéed mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or caramelized onions.
- Get Creative with Shapes: Instead of traditional triangles, try folding the phyllo dough into squares, rectangles, or even pinwheels for a fun twist on this classic dish.
Air Fryer Spanakopita is a delightful twist on the traditional Greek appetizer, offering all the delicious flavors and textures you love with the added convenience of air frying. With its crispy golden exterior and flavorful spinach and cheese filling, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a tasty snack, or simply craving a savory treat, this recipe is sure to satisfy. So dust off your air fryer and give this delicious dish a try – you won’t be disappointed!
