This Spinach and Feta Pastitsio is a delightful twist on the classic Greek dish. Combining tender pasta, a rich spinach and feta filling, and a creamy béchamel sauce, this dish is perfect for a hearty and comforting meal. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Rest Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 1 lb (500g) bucatini or penne pasta
- 8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 oz (115g) feta cheese
For the Filling:
- 1 bunch (5-6) scallions, thinly sliced
- 3-4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 and 1/2 lbs spinach leaves
- Salt to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 4 oz (115g) cream cheese
- 11 oz (300g) feta cheese
For the Béchamel Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 eggs
- 1-2 cups kefalotiri or grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Make the Filling:
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the scallions and a pinch of salt, and cook until soft and golden, about 8 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Add the spinach in batches, cooking over high heat until wilted and the liquid has evaporated. Season with salt and pepper.
- Remove from heat and stir in the dill and cream cheese until incorporated. Add the feta cheese and mix well.
- Make the Béchamel Sauce:
- In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for a few minutes until toasted.
- Gradually add the milk, whisking to keep the sauce smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Cook until the sauce comes to a boil and thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat. In a small bowl, whisk the eggs. Slowly add some of the hot béchamel sauce to the eggs to temper them, then whisk the egg mixture back into the saucepan.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Assemble the Pastitsio:
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, then drain.
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, add half of the pasta. Top with a ladle of the béchamel sauce, crumbled feta, and a sprinkle of mozzarella. Toss to combine.
- Spread the spinach and feta filling evenly over the pasta.
- Add a ladle of béchamel sauce to the remaining pasta and toss with crumbled feta. Layer this over the spinach filling in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle the top with mozzarella cheese, then pour the remaining béchamel sauce over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven on the center rack for about an hour, or until the béchamel is lightly golden.
- Rest and Serve:
- Allow the pastitsio to rest for 2 hours to set before slicing and serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley or dill if desired.
- Pair with a Greek salad or a side of roasted vegetables.
Cooking Tips
- Make sure to cook the spinach over high heat to evaporate all the liquid, preventing a watery filling.
- Letting the pastitsio rest ensures clean slices and better flavor development.
Nutritional Benefits
- Spinach: Rich in iron, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants.
- Feta Cheese: Provides protein and calcium.
- Scallions: High in vitamins K and C, and a good source of fiber.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: This recipe is vegetarian-friendly.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful: The combination of spinach, feta, and béchamel sauce creates a rich and satisfying dish.
- Hearty: Perfect for a filling and comforting meal.
- Versatile: Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or special occasions.
Conclusion
This Spinach and Feta Pastitsio is a delicious and hearty dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. The blend of tender pasta, flavorful spinach filling, and creamy béchamel sauce makes for a comforting and satisfying meal. Enjoy the delightful flavors and the satisfaction of a homemade Greek-inspired dish.
