Easy Gluten Free Spanakopita Parcels

 Craving a taste of the Mediterranean without the gluten? These Easy Gluten Free Spanakopita Parcels are your answer! Imagine flaky, golden pastry filled with a savory blend of spinach, feta, and fresh herbs. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or light meal, they’re surprisingly simple to make. Inspired by traditional Greek flavors, these parcels are a delightful, fuss-free way to enjoy spanakopita. Let’s dive into this incredible recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Gluten Free Spanakopita Parcels

These aren’t just any gluten-free snacks; they’re a flavor explosion in every bite! Here’s why you’ll adore these Easy Gluten Free Spanakopita Parcels:

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under an hour!
• Gluten-Free Goodness: Enjoy without the gluten worries.
• Savory & Delicious: A perfect blend of spinach, feta, and herbs.
• Versatile: Great as an appetizer, snack, or light meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Impress your friends and family with these delightful parcels.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
• Perfectly Portable: Ideal for picnics, potlucks, and lunchboxes.
• Aromatic Experience: Your kitchen will smell incredible while these bake.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to create these amazing Easy Gluten Free Spanakopita Parcels. Quality ingredients make all the difference, so choose wisely! Don’t worry if you don’t have an ingredient; there are substitutions below!

For the Filling:

• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon – Adds richness and flavor.
• Large Onion: 1, finely chopped – Provides a sweet, savory base.
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced – Infuses aromatic depth.
• Fresh Spinach: 10 ounces (283g), washed and chopped – The star of the filling.
• Fresh Dill: 1/2 cup (approx. 10g), chopped – Lends a distinctive, fresh taste.
• Fresh Parsley: 1/4 cup (approx. 5g), chopped – Enhances the herbal notes.
• Feta Cheese: 8 ounces (227g), crumbled – Adds salty, tangy goodness.
• Large Eggs: 2, lightly beaten – Binds the filling together.
• Ground Nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon – Provides warmth and subtle spice.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste – Season to perfection.

For the Pastry:

• Gluten-Free Phyllo Pastry: 12 sheets – Creates the flaky, delicate crust.
• Melted Butter or Olive Oil: 1/2 cup (113g/118ml) – For brushing, adding flavor and crispness.

For the freshest flavor, source your herbs from a local farmer’s market. If fresh spinach isn’t available, frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry, can be used. Pro Tip: Toast the ground nutmeg lightly in a dry pan for a minute before adding it to the filling to unlock its full aroma!

YOU MIGHT LOVE: Cheesy Zucchini Breadsticks – A delightful snack with a cheesy twist.

Essential Equipment List

Having the right tools makes this recipe even easier! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delicious Easy Gluten Free Spanakopita Parcels:

• Large Skillet: For sautéing the spinach and onion.

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• Mixing Bowls: To combine the filling ingredients.
• Baking Sheet: For baking the spanakopita parcels.
• Parchment Paper: To prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
• Pastry Brush: For brushing the phyllo pastry with butter or oil.
• Knife: For cutting the phyllo pastry.
• Cutting Board: To protect your countertop while chopping.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 12 parcels
• Difficulty: Easy

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect Easy Gluten Free Spanakopita Parcels. Don’t worry if it seems daunting at first; it’s easier than you think!

Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures the parcels won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.

Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. The aroma will fill your kitchen!

Wilt the Spinach

Add the chopped spinach in batches, stirring until wilted and most of the liquid has evaporated, about 5-7 minutes. Ensure all the spinach is wilted and the excess moisture is gone, this will make your parcels crispy.

Combine the Filling Ingredients

Remove from heat and transfer the spinach mixture to a large bowl. Let it cool for 10 minutes. Once cooled, add chopped dill, parsley, crumbled feta cheese, beaten eggs, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined. The filling should be evenly mixed and slightly moist.

Assemble the Phyllo Parcels

Lay one sheet of gluten-free phyllo pastry on a clean surface. Brush lightly with melted butter or olive oil. Place another sheet on top and brush again. Repeat with a third sheet to create a sturdy base. Cut the layered phyllo into 4 equal strips. Place about 2 tablespoons of filling at the bottom of each strip. Fold the bottom corner over the filling to form a triangle, then continue folding in a triangular pattern until you reach the end of the strip.

Bake to Golden Perfection

Brush the top with more butter or oil and place on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with remaining phyllo sheets and filling. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning!

Cool and Serve

Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your homemade Easy Gluten Free Spanakopita Parcels!

CHECK OUT: Greek Yogurt Raspberry Oat Muffins – A delightful and healthy treat for breakfast or snack!

Tips for Success

Want to make sure your Easy Gluten Free Spanakopita Parcels turn out perfectly every time? Here are a few expert tips:

• Prevent Soggy Bottoms: Ensure spinach is thoroughly drained to avoid excess moisture.
• Handle Phyllo Carefully: Gluten-free phyllo can be delicate; work quickly and keep the stack covered with a damp towel to prevent drying.
• Even Baking: Rotate the baking sheet halfway through to ensure even browning.
• Flavor Boost: Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the filling for extra zing.
• Don’t Overfill: Too much filling can make the parcels difficult to fold and bake evenly.

Variations & Substitutions

Want to switch things up or need to make a substitution? Here are some great options for your Easy Gluten Free Spanakopita Parcels:

• Cheese Variations: Try using ricotta cheese in combination with feta for a creamier filling.
• Herb Substitutions: If you don’t have fresh dill or parsley, use dried herbs, but reduce the amount by half.
• Vegetable Additions: Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
• Vegan Option: Substitute the feta with a vegan feta alternative and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water) instead of chicken eggs.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Easy Gluten Free Spanakopita Parcels

These Easy Gluten Free Spanakopita Parcels are delicious on their own, but here are some serving suggestions to make them even better:

• Side Salad: Serve with a fresh Greek salad for a complete Mediterranean meal.
• Dipping Sauce: Pair with a creamy yogurt-dill dip or a lemon-tahini sauce.
• Soup: Enjoy alongside a hearty vegetable soup or a light broth-based soup.
• Appetizer Platter: Include them on an appetizer platter with olives, hummus, and pita bread.

Health Benefits

These Easy Gluten Free Spanakopita Parcels aren’t just delicious; they’re packed with nutrients! Spinach is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, plus iron and folate. Feta cheese provides calcium and protein. Nutmeg has anti-inflammatory properties. These parcels offer a balanced, nutritious snack or light meal. Perfect for a health-conscious lifestyle!

Storage & Reheating

Want to save some for later? Here’s how to properly store and reheat your Easy Gluten Free Spanakopita Parcels:

• Storage: Store the cooled parcels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy. You can also reheat them in an air fryer for 5-7 minutes.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the baked parcels. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven, but add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out as much excess water as possible before using it in the filling.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the parcels ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

What is gluten-free phyllo pastry?

Gluten-free phyllo pastry is a type of thin, unleavened dough made without gluten. It’s available in most health food stores or online. Be careful when working with it as it can be more fragile than regular phyllo.

Can I use olive oil instead of butter for brushing?

Yes, you can use olive oil instead of butter for brushing the phyllo pastry. It will give the parcels a slightly different flavor, but it’s a great alternative for those who are dairy-free.

How do I prevent the phyllo pastry from drying out?

To prevent the phyllo pastry from drying out, keep the stack covered with a damp towel while you’re working with it. Work quickly and brush each sheet with butter or oil as you layer them.

Nutritional Information

• Serving Size: 1 parcel
• Calories: Approximately 180
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Protein: 6g

Note: Exact nutritional information may vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

Craving more gluten-free delights? Here are a few more recipes you might enjoy!

• Cheesy Zucchini Breadsticks – A flavorful and cheesy snack perfect for any occasion.
• Greek Yogurt Raspberry Oat Muffins – A healthy and delicious muffin recipe for breakfast or a snack.
• Crispy Baked Zucchini Chips – A healthy and satisfying snack that’s easy to make.

Conclusion

These Easy Gluten Free Spanakopita Parcels are a fast, flavorful, and healthy way to enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean. They’re perfect for any occasion, from a quick snack to a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Whip them up tonight and tag us with your masterpiece! Let us know how it goes—comment below!

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