Spinach and Feta Borek with Olive Oil
**Spinach and Feta Borek with Olive Oil** Crispy, flaky filo dough envelops a savory filling of wilted spinach, crumbled feta, and fresh herbs. The addition of olive oil adds richness and flavor to this traditional Turkish dish, making it a perfect appetizer or side dish.
The history of borek, a beloved pastry in Turkish cuisine, dates back centuries. Its origins can be traced to the nomadic tribes of Central Asia, who would use thin sheets of dough to wrap savory fillings and cook them over open fires. As the tribes migrated westward, they brought their culinary traditions with them, and borek became a staple dish in the Ottoman Empire. Over time, borek evolved into a diverse range of pastries, each with its own unique regional variations. The spinach and feta borek, known as ıspanaklı peynirli börek, is a particularly popular variety that showcases the fresh flavors of spring. The combination of wilted spinach, salty feta, and aromatic herbs creates a harmonious balance of flavors that is both comforting and satisfying. Today, borek remains a cherished dish in Turkish households and is often served as a meze (appetizer) or as a main course accompanied by a side of yogurt or ayran (a yogurt-based drink). It is also a common street food, sold by vendors in bustling markets and squares.
Spinach and Feta Borek with Olive Oil Spinach and Feta Borek with Olive Oil Spinach and Feta Borek with Olive Oil Spinach and Feta Borek with Olive Oil
Prep time: 30 | Cook time: 25 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 1 package of filo dough
  • 1 tablespoon of olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 pound of spinach, chopped
  • 1 cup of feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/2 cup of chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/4 cup of chopped fresh dill
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  3. Add onion and garlic to skillet and cook until softened.
  4. Add spinach to skillet and cook until wilted.
  5. Remove skillet from heat and stir in feta, parsley, and dill.
  6. Unroll filo dough and brush with olive oil.
  7. Place spinach mixture in the center of filo dough and fold up the sides.
  8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Why It Works
  • The use of filo dough creates a crispy, flaky exterior that contrasts perfectly with the soft and savory filling.
  • Wilting the spinach removes excess moisture, preventing the borek from becoming soggy.
  • Crumbled feta cheese adds a salty, tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the spinach.
  • Fresh herbs, such as parsley and dill, bring a vibrant freshness to the dish.
  • Brushing the filo dough with olive oil before baking adds richness and promotes golden browning.