Imagine biting into a crispy, golden pita stuffed with vibrant green spinach and creamy, tangy feta cheese that melts in your mouth. This Middle Eastern-inspired recipe is not just a meal; it's a culinary adventure that combines healthy ingredients with irresistible flavors. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch, a satisfying snack, or an impressive appetizer, these Spinach and Cheese Pitas are about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 whole wheat pitas
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: whole wheat pitas, fresh spinach, crumbled feta cheese, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Rinse the fresh spinach under cold water to remove any dirt or grit. Pat the spinach dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the spinach to the skillet.
- Sauté the spinach for about 2-3 minutes, or until it is wilted and tender. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Remove the skillet from heat and let the sautéed spinach cool slightly. Once cooled, transfer the spinach to a mixing bowl.
- Add the crumbled feta cheese to the bowl with the spinach. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until the ingredients are combined.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, prepare the pitas for stuffing.
- Carefully cut each whole wheat pita in half to create two pockets. You can do this by slicing along the edge of the pita.
- Stuff each pita pocket with the spinach and feta mixture, making sure to distribute the filling evenly between the two pitas.
- Place the stuffed pitas on a baking sheet. You can brush the tops with a little extra olive oil for added flavor and to help them crisp up.
- Once the oven is preheated, place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the pitas for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- After baking, remove the pitas from the oven and let them cool for a minute before serving.
- Serve the spinach and cheese pitas warm, either as a snack or as part of a meal. Enjoy!
Tips
- Choose fresh, crisp spinach for the best flavor and texture. Organic spinach tends to have a more robust taste.
- Make sure to thoroughly dry the spinach after washing to prevent soggy pitas.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or some red pepper flakes to your spinach and feta mixture.
- Use whole wheat pitas for added nutrition and a nuttier flavor profile.
- Don't overstuff your pitas - aim for an even distribution of filling to ensure each bite is perfectly balanced.
- If you want a crispier texture, you can finish the pitas under the broiler for 1-2 minutes after baking.
- These pitas are best served immediately while still warm and crispy, but they can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated in an oven or toaster oven.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 305kcal
Carbohydrates: 36g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 30mg
