Perfect make-ahead holiday side with Mediterranean flair
Transform your holiday table with these flaky, golden-brown spanakopita triangles. This Greek classic brings Mediterranean elegance to any festive meal with its buttery pastry and savory spinach-feta filling.
These crispy spanakopita triangles are perfect for holiday gatherings, offering a vegetarian-friendly option that pairs beautifully with roasted meats. The combination of flaky phyllo dough and tangy feta creates a satisfying crunch with every bite.
With a make-ahead friendly recipe and simple preparation, these pastries are ideal for busy hosts. The golden-brown layers and aromatic herbs make them a standout holiday side dish that will impress guests while staying true to Greek culinary traditions.
Whether you're celebrating Christmas, Thanksgiving, or New Year's Eve, these spanakopita triangles add a touch of Mediterranean culture to your festive spread. Their crispy texture and savory flavor make them a versatile accompaniment to any main course.
The recipe's simplicity belies its gourmet appeal - just a few quality ingredients come together to create a restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen. From the first flaky bite to the last satisfying crunch, these triangles deliver authentic Greek flavor with every bite.
Why This Recipe Works
Make-Ahead Friendly
Assemble these pastries up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for perfect crispiness every time.
Vegetarian Option
This recipe uses only plant-based ingredients (except feta) and offers a satisfying savory flavor without meat.
Flavorful & Nutritious
Spinach provides iron and vitamins while feta adds protein and calcium to this balanced holiday side.
Festive Presentation
The golden-brown triangles with herb specks make an elegant addition to any holiday table setting.
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Phyllo Dough
Provides the signature flaky texture. For best results, thaw frozen phyllo in refrigerator overnight before use.
Substitutions: Puff pastry (less flaky), tortillas (not traditional but workable)
Feta Cheese
Adds salty tang and moisture to the filling. Use crumbled feta for better binding.
Substitutions: Ricotta (milder), vegan feta
Spinach
Frozen spinach is convenient and retains nutrients better than fresh when cooked.
Substitutions: Fresh spinach (use 1.5x amount), kale (less traditional but works)
Herbs
Dill and parsley are traditional Greek herbs that add freshness and aroma.
Substitutions: Oregano, thyme, or basil
Pro Tips for Perfect Spanakopita
Filling Consistency
Cook spinach filling until completely dry to prevent soggy pastries. Test by pressing - should hold shape without moisture.
Handling Phyllo
Work quickly with phyllo in cool environment. If dough becomes brittle, cover with plastic wrap.
Butter Application
Use a pastry brush for even butter distribution. Work in small sections to prevent butter from hardening.
Make-Ahead Tip
Assembled pastries can be refrigerated for 24 hours. Bake just before serving for optimal crispiness.
Variations & Customizations
Vegetarian Version
Add 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese for extra flavor. Replace feta with vegan cheese if desired.
Cheese Lovers
Double the feta and add 1/4 cup crumbled Parmesan for a richer, cheesier filling.
Herb Medley
Mix dill, parsley, oregano, and thyme for a more complex flavor profile.
Mini Bites
Use smaller phyllo squares to make bite-sized appetizers for holiday parties.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Lamb shank with rosemary reduction
- Grilled turkey breast with cranberry sauce
- Roasted root vegetables with thyme
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with a crisp white wine like Assyrtiko or a light red such as Agiorgitiko. For non-alcoholic, try sparkling water with lemon.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Assemble pastries up to 24 hours in advance. Store in refrigerator covered with plastic wrap.
Refrigerator Storage
Store baked spanakopita in airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes.
Freezer Storage
Unbaked pastries can be frozen for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5-7 minutes to baking time.
Reheating Instructions
For best results, reheat in oven rather than microwave to maintain crispiness.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: Pastries are too soggy
A: Ensure filling is completely dry before assembling. Cook spinach until all moisture evaporates.
Q: Phyllo becomes brittle
A: Work in a cool environment and cover unused phyllo with plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
Q: Pastries burn before done
A: Cover with aluminum foil during last 5 minutes of baking to prevent over-browning.
Q: Filling leaks out
A: Make sure to seal edges properly with butter. Double-fold corners if necessary.
Final Thoughts
These crispy spanakopita triangles bring authentic Greek flavor to your holiday table. With their flaky layers and savory filling, they're sure to impress guests while offering a vegetarian-friendly option. The make-ahead nature makes them perfect for busy holiday hosting.
Whether you're celebrating Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive occasion, these pastries add a touch of Mediterranean elegance to your menu. Their versatility allows them to complement both meat and vegetarian main courses, making them an essential holiday side dish.
