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Food has a remarkable way of bringing people together, and there are few dishes that embody this more than a well-made Feta Cheese and Herb Phyllo Pie. This recipe is a blend of simplicity and rich flavors, perfect for both family gatherings and casual meals. It’s a timeless dish found in many Mediterranean kitchens, where fresh, wholesome ingredients come together in perfect harmony. The crispy layers of phyllo dough, combined with the savory, creamy filling of feta, herbs, and cheese, create a texture and taste that is hard to resist.

This phyllo pie is not just a dish but an experience. It’s comforting yet light, packed with the tang of feta cheese, the freshness of parsley, and the rich undertones of cheddar or mozzarella. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. It can be enjoyed as a hearty breakfast, a light lunch, or even a flavorful side dish for dinner. Whether served warm or cold, this feta cheese pie will surely become a household favorite.

The dish is also incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal preparation and simple ingredients, yet it delivers big on flavor. Phyllo dough, though delicate and thin, adds the perfect crunch to the creamy, savory filling. The combination of yogurt, eggs, and milk in the filling ensures a rich, velvety texture that complements the light and crispy layers of dough. With the addition of fresh parsley and cheese, each bite of this pie is packed with fresh, savory goodness.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Pie Filling:

200g feta cheese, crumbled
1 bunch parsley, finely chopped
2 eggs

1 tsp salt
4 heaping tbsp yogurt
200ml milk

100ml oil (vegetable or olive oil)
200ml mineral water
1/2 cup (50g) grated cheddar or mozzarella cheese

For the Phyllo Layers:

Ready-made phyllo dough (about 10-12 sheets, depending on the size of your baking dish)

Steps to Make Feta Cheese and Herb Phyllo Pie

1. Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, crumble the feta cheese into small pieces.
Add the chopped parsley to the bowl, and mix the two ingredients until well combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the 2 eggs, 4 heaping tablespoons of yogurt, and 200ml of milk.
Slowly add 100ml of oil to the egg mixture while whisking continuously to create a smooth consistency. This oil will help create a rich, velvety filling.
Add the 1 tsp of salt to the mixture and stir in the 1/2 cup of grated cheddar or mozzarella. This addition of cheese will give the filling a gooey, savory taste that complements the feta beautifully.

2. Prepare the Phyllo Layers

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Grease a baking dish with a little oil or butter to prevent the phyllo dough from sticking. A 9×9-inch square or 9-inch round dish works well for this recipe.
Lay the first sheet of phyllo dough in the bottom of the dish. Brush the sheet lightly with a bit of oil (vegetable or olive oil) to ensure the layers remain crisp.

Repeat this process, layering and brushing each sheet of phyllo dough with oil until you have about 6-8 sheets in the dish. Make sure the phyllo dough overlaps the sides of the dish as you layer. This will create a lovely, crispy crust around the edges.
Pour the feta and herb filling into the phyllo-lined baking dish and spread it evenly across the surface.

3. Assemble the Pie

After filling the pie, take the remaining phyllo sheets and layer them over the top, brushing each sheet with oil as you go. You want a good amount of phyllo on top to create a crispy, golden crust.

Once all the sheets are used, fold in the overhanging phyllo dough from the edges to create a neat, enclosed pie.

4. Bake

Place the assembled pie in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the pie to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Why This Recipe is Timeless

The Feta Cheese and Herb Phyllo Pie has stood the test of time for several reasons. First and foremost, it combines the delicious and hearty flavors of feta cheese, fresh herbs, and savory fillings, which are staples in Mediterranean cuisine. The use of phyllo dough, with its light and flaky texture, elevates the entire dish, turning it into something special. The crispy, golden layers paired with the creamy, flavorful filling make each bite a delightful experience.

This pie also has an incredible versatility that makes it timeless. While it is commonly served as a savory pie, it can be adapted to suit a variety of tastes. If you prefer a stronger herb flavor, you can add more parsley or even incorporate fresh dill, mint, or thyme. You can also use different cheeses depending on your preference—goat cheese, ricotta, or even a blend of cheeses can create unique flavor profiles.

Another reason this recipe remains timeless is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that is not only quick to make but also capable of serving a large group. It’s a great choice for gatherings, whether it’s a casual lunch with friends or a celebratory holiday meal. The convenience of using ready-made phyllo dough makes the recipe even more approachable, saving you time and effort without compromising on taste.

Phyllo dough pies like this one have a long history across many cultures, particularly in the Mediterranean and the Middle East. The rich tradition of phyllo-based pies is passed down through generations, each version adding its own spin on the ingredients and flavors. Whether you enjoy it as a standalone meal or serve it alongside other Mediterranean dishes, this pie is always a crowd-pleaser.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: ~280 kcal
Protein: 9g

Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g

Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Sodium: 650mg

FAQs

1. Can I use other cheeses instead of feta?
Yes, you can substitute feta with cheeses such as goat cheese, ricotta, or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar. Each will give the pie a slightly different flavor, so feel free to experiment based on your preferences.

2. Can I make this pie in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the pie a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.

3. Can I freeze this pie?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled pie before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as usual.

4. Can I use homemade phyllo dough?
If you prefer to make your own phyllo dough, you can absolutely do so. However, ready-made phyllo dough makes the recipe much quicker and easier, which is why it’s commonly used.

5. How can I make this pie healthier?
To make the pie lighter, you can use a lower-fat cheese like reduced-fat feta, use less oil, and choose whole wheat phyllo dough.

Tips for Making the Best Feta Cheese and Herb Phyllo Pie

Brush the Phyllo Dough Well: Be sure to brush each layer of phyllo dough with oil to create a crispy and golden crust.

Don’t Skip the Yogurt: The yogurt adds creaminess to the filling, so don’t omit it. It also balances the tang of the feta cheese.
Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley is key in this recipe, but feel free to experiment with other herbs like dill or thyme for added flavor.
Serve with a Side Salad: This pie pairs wonderfully with a light, fresh salad. Try a cucumber and tomato salad dressed with olive oil and lemon.

Rest Before Slicing: Allow the pie to rest for 10 minutes after baking to help the filling set and make slicing easier.

Storage Tips

Room Temperature: This pie can be kept at room temperature for up to 4 hours if it’s served immediately.
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing: To freeze, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Conclusion

The Feta Cheese and Herb Phyllo Pie is a delightful, versatile, and timeless recipe that combines simple ingredients with bold, satisfying flavors. With its crispy phyllo layers, creamy cheese filling, and fresh herbs, this dish is sure to please a crowd, whether served as a snack, main course, or side dish. It’s perfect for casual meals, festive occasions, or whenever you’re craving something that’s both hearty and light. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its flavor but in its flexibility—by swapping ingredients or adjusting the seasoning, you can make this dish uniquely your own. Give it a try, and enjoy the delicious, flaky perfection of this Mediterranean-inspired pie that will surely become a new favorite in your kitchen.