If you have been dreaming of a savory, comforting dish that perfectly balances fluffiness with the rich tang of cheese, then you’re about to fall head over heels for this Greek Leek Pie with Feta and Ricotta Recipe. This classic Greek creation layers tender, sautéed leeks and fresh onions with the creamy goodness of feta and ricotta cheeses, all wrapped up in crisp olive-oil brushed phyllo dough. Every bite delivers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, making it an irresistible main course or hearty snack that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the secret to nailing this Greek Leek Pie with Feta and Ricotta Recipe. Don’t be fooled by the simplicity; each component plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, ensuring the final dish is vibrant, fresh, and utterly delicious.
- 8 Leeks, washed and chopped: These bring a mild oniony sweetness and soft texture that forms the base of the filling.
- 4 Fresh onions, chopped: Adds depth and subtle sharpness to balance the leeks.
- Dill, finely chopped: Offers a fresh, herbal brightness that pairs beautifully with cheese.
- Parsley, finely chopped: Adds a clean, peppery note enhancing the overall herbaceous feel.
- 1 Large onion, chopped: Extra onioniness for richness and moisture in the filling.
- 2 Medium eggs: Acts as a binder, giving structure to the mixture so it holds together nicely.
- 200 grams Feta cheese: The salty, tangy star of the cheese duo, essential for authentic flavor.
- 150 grams Anthotyro or ricotta cheese: Provides creaminess and soft texture that complements the feta.
- 80 grams Olive oil: Used both for sautéing the veggies and brushing the phyllo, contributing richness and crispness.
How to Make Greek Leek Pie with Feta and Ricotta Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Vegetable Base
Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C. Chop the leeks, fresh onions, and the additional onion, then toss them into a saucepan with 40 grams of olive oil. Sauté gently until everything turns soft and fragrant. This slow cooking releases their natural sweetness, creating a perfect canvas for the cheese flavors to shine on. While the vegetables soften, finely chop your dill and parsley so they are ready to mingle with the cheeses.
Step 2: Mixing the Cheese and Herbs
In a separate bowl, crumble the feta cheese and add the anthotyro or ricotta. The contrast between the crumbly feta and the smooth ricotta is what makes this pie irresistibly creamy yet robust. Toss in the freshly chopped dill and parsley, then gently stir until the mixture is evenly combined. The herbs infuse the creamy cheeses with fresh, zesty notes.
Step 3: Combining Everything
Once the vegetables have softened, add them to the bowl with the cheese and herb mixture. Crack in the eggs and mix everything thoroughly until well combined. The eggs will hold the filling together while baking, ensuring each slice comes out perfectly firm yet tender.
Step 4: Assembling the Pie
Brush your baking pan generously with olive oil to prevent sticking and add flavor. Lay the first sheet of phyllo dough and brush it liberally with olive oil. Repeat this process with three sheets, building a crisp, golden foundation for your filling. Spoon the cheese and leek mixture evenly over the layered phyllo. Then, layer more phyllo sheets on top, brushing each one with olive oil to ensure a beautifully crisp and golden crust when baked.
Step 5: Baking to Perfection
Place the assembled pie in your preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes or until the top is a rich, golden brown. The olfactory reward at this stage is remarkable – you’ll smell the buttery, cheesy aroma filling your kitchen, promising a savory delight to come. Serve it hot if you like the cheese melty and soft, or enjoy it cold for a firmer slice that still delivers bold flavors.
How to Serve Greek Leek Pie with Feta and Ricotta Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or dill over the pie just before digging in. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice complements the richness with a punch of brightness. For added flair, a dusting of cracked black pepper or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil works wonders.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs beautifully with a vibrant Greek salad loaded with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and red onions dressed in a simple lemon-olive oil vinaigrette. Roasted potatoes or a light vegetable soup can also round out the meal, making it both satisfying and complete.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the pie as individual squares on a wooden board alongside bowls of tzatziki or a spicy harissa sauce for dipping. You can even cut it into bite-sized finger foods for parties or picnics – it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s easy to share.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover Greek Leek Pie with Feta and Ricotta Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
If you want to prep ahead, this pie freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before popping it in the freezer. When wrapped well, it can last up to 2 months without sacrificing quality.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a moderate oven at 180°C for 15–20 minutes to regain that crispy phyllo crunch. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the texture, but if you’re in a hurry, a short microwave burst followed by a quick oven crisp will do the trick.
FAQs
Can I use different cheeses in this Greek Leek Pie with Feta and Ricotta Recipe?
Absolutely! While feta and ricotta (or anthotyro) are traditional and create the best balance of creaminess and saltiness, you can experiment with goat cheese or farmer’s cheese depending on what you have on hand.
Is phyllo dough necessary for this recipe?
Phyllo is key to achieving the signature flaky, crispy crust that contrasts beautifully with the soft filling. Puff pastry could be a substitute but will alter the texture and flavor profile quite a bit.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
This recipe is naturally vegetarian, as it contains no meat or fish, relying solely on vegetables, herbs, and cheese for flavor. It’s a wonderful option for a meatless meal that still feels hearty and satisfying.
What can I serve with Greek Leek Pie for a balanced meal?
A crisp salad with fresh vegetables or a simple lemony chickpea dish complements the rich pie perfectly. Adding fresh fruit or light yogurt on the side balances the meal with some cool refreshment.
How do I know when the pie is fully cooked?
Look for a golden brown crust on top and edges. The filling should be set and no longer jiggly when gently shaken, indicating the eggs have cooked through and all flavors have melded beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Making this Greek Leek Pie with Feta and Ricotta Recipe is like inviting a little taste of Greece into your kitchen. It’s a humble dish that requires simple ingredients but rewards you with layers of luscious flavors and textures. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying it on a quiet evening, it’s destined to become one of your go-to comforting favorites. Don’t hesitate to give it a try – it’s every bit as delicious as it sounds.
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Greek Leek Pie with Feta and Ricotta Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Greek Leek Pie with Cheese is a savory and aromatic dish featuring tender leeks and fresh onions sautéed with olive oil, combined with creamy feta and anthotyro (or ricotta) cheeses mixed with fresh dill and parsley. Encased in layered phyllo dough brushed with olive oil, the pie is baked to a golden brown perfection. Perfect as a main course, it can be served hot or cold, offering a delightful vegetarian meal inspired by traditional Greek flavors.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Herbs
- 8 Leeks, washed and chopped
- 4 Fresh onions, chopped
- 1 Large onion, chopped
- Fresh dill, finely chopped (about 2 tablespoons)
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (about 2 tablespoons)
Cheese and Dairy
- 200 grams Feta cheese
- 150 grams Anthotyro cheese or ricotta as an alternative
- 2 Medium sized eggs
Other Ingredients
- 80 grams Olive oil (divided, with 40 grams for sautéing and the rest for brushing the phyllo dough)
- Phyllo sheets (enough for 6 servings, approximately 6-8 sheets)
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and vegetables: Preheat your oven to 200°C (about 390°F). Chop the leeks, fresh onions, and the large onion finely, then place them in a saucepan with 40 grams of olive oil. Sauté the mixture over medium heat until the vegetables become soft and fragrant, which usually takes about 7-10 minutes. Meanwhile, finely chop the fresh dill and parsley.
- Prepare the cheese and herb mixture: In a separate large bowl, crumble the feta cheese and add the anthotyro or ricotta cheese. Add the finely chopped dill and parsley and gently toss the mixture together. Once your sautéed vegetable mixture has cooled slightly, add it to the cheese and herbs bowl and combine everything thoroughly. Then beat in the two eggs to bind the filling.
- Assemble the pie: Brush a baking pan with olive oil to prevent sticking. Lay down the first sheet of phyllo dough and brush it generously with olive oil. Continue layering each phyllo sheet this way, brushing each sheet with olive oil to ensure a crispy and flavorful crust. After layering about three sheets, spread the cheese and leek mixture evenly over the dough. Continue layering the phyllo sheets on top, brushing each one with olive oil as you go, until all sheets are used and the filling is enclosed.
- Bake the pie: Place the assembled pie into the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 40 minutes or until the top is a beautiful golden brown and crisp. The cooking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on the color and texture.
- Serve: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before slicing. This Greek Leek Pie with Cheese can be served warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for any meal occasion.
Notes
- Anthotyro is a traditional Greek fresh cheese similar to ricotta; if unavailable, ricotta is a perfect substitute.
- Make sure to sauté the leeks and onions until soft to prevent excess moisture in the pie.
- Phyllo dough dries quickly, so keep unused sheets covered with a damp cloth while assembling.
- For a crispier crust, brush each phyllo sheet well with olive oil.
- This pie can be made ahead of time and reheated gently before serving.
