Spinach Pie Bites

INTRODUCTION

Spinach Pie Bites are a delightful and tasty treat that anyone can make and enjoy. These little bites combine layers of flaky phyllo dough with a savory filling of spinach and cheese. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even as a light meal, they are easy to prepare and offer a wonderful mix of flavors and textures. Whether you need a dish for a party, a family gathering, or just a cozy night at home, Spinach Pie Bites will surely impress everyone. Let’s explore how to make these delicious bites and find out why you will love them.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

There are many reasons to love Spinach Pie Bites. First, they are quick to make, especially since you can use frozen spinach. Preparing the filling only takes a few minutes, and the baking time is also short. Second, they are very versatile. You can serve them as an appetizer at parties or as a side dish with dinner. Third, these bites are packed with flavor. The combination of spinach, feta cheese, and cottage cheese creates a rich and creamy filling. And finally, they can be made ahead of time, leaving you more time to spend with your guests or family. You will love how easy and delicious these bites are!

HOW TO MAKE Spinach Pie Bites

Making Spinach Pie Bites is a straightforward process. By following simple steps, anyone can prepare these tasty treats in no time. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that everyone will enjoy.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

To make Spinach Pie Bites, you will need a few pieces of equipment:

• A large mixing bowl
• A 15x10x1-inch baking pan
• A brush for applying butter
• A sharp knife for cutting
• An oven for baking

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1 package (10 ounces) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
• 2 cups crumbled feta cheese
• 1 cup 4 percent small-curd cottage cheese
• 3/4 cup butter, melted
• 16 sheets phyllo dough (14×9-inch size)

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. In a large bowl, mix the lightly beaten egg, thawed spinach, feta cheese, and cottage cheese. Stir well to combine.
3. Brush the bottom of your baking pan with some melted butter.
4. Place one sheet of phyllo dough in the prepared pan and brush it with butter.
5. Layer in 7 additional sheets of phyllo dough, brushing each layer with melted butter as you go.
6. To keep the remaining phyllo sheets from drying out, cover them with a damp towel.
7. Once you have finished layering the phyllo, spread the spinach and cheese mixture evenly over the top.
8. Top this mixture with the remaining phyllo dough, again brushing each sheet with butter.
9. Place the pan in the freezer for 30 minutes to firm up a bit.
10. After freezing, use a sharp knife to cut the stack into 1-inch squares.
11. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 45 minutes or until the bites are golden brown.
12. Once done, remove them from the oven and let them cool. Refrigerate any leftovers.

HOW TO SERVE Spinach Pie Bites

Spinach Pie Bites can be served in many ways. They are best enjoyed warm but can also be served at room temperature. Have them on their own or pair them with a simple dipping sauce like tzatziki or yogurt sauce. You can also serve them with a fresh side salad for a complete meal. These bites are perfect for parties; just place them on a platter for guests to grab as they mingle.

STORAGE & FREEZING: Spinach Pie Bites

If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely, but still possible!), store the Spinach Pie Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to four days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.

You can also freeze uncooked Spinach Pie Bites. After cutting them into squares, place them in the freezer. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. You can bake them from frozen; simply add an extra 10 to 15 minutes to the baking time.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

When serving Spinach Pie Bites, you can enhance the experience by adding a variety of side dishes. A fresh Greek salad would pair perfectly with these bites. You could also serve some olives, sliced cucumbers, or fresh tomatoes to add color and flavor to the table. For drinks, consider pairing them with a glass of chilled white wine or lemonade.

VARIATIONS

Spinach Pie Bites can be customized easily. Consider adding ingredients like artichoke hearts, chopped onions, or even sautéed mushrooms to the filling for extra flavor. You can also try different types of cheese, such as ricotta or goat cheese, for a different taste. If you want a little spice, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the mixture. Feel free to get creative and make these bites your own!

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach. Just cook it down and ensure it is well-drained before mixing it into the filling.

2. How do I know when the bites are done?
The bites are done when they are golden brown on top. You can check them by lifting one of the squares slightly with a spatula.

3. Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to assemble the bites.

4. What can I serve with the Spinach Pie Bites?
These bites go well with dips like tzatziki or garlic sauce. A salad or a variety of fresh veggies would also complement the dish nicely.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Spinach Pie Bites

If you want to save time, consider preparing the Spinach Pie Bites ahead of time. As mentioned, you can make the filling a day in advance. Moreover, you can assemble the bites earlier in the day and just keep them in the fridge until you are ready to bake them. Alternatively, you can prepare them and freeze them uncooked. This will allow you to have a delicious snack or appetizer ready whenever you need it. Simply pull them out of the freezer and bake for a quick and tasty treat!

In conclusion, Spinach Pie Bites are an easy, delicious, and very versatile treat. You can make them for any occasion, and they are sure to please everyone who tries them. Enjoy the wonderful flavors and textures that these little bites bring to your table!

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