This vegan version of the classic Greek spinach pie has layers of crisp, flaky phyllo pastry filled with a savory mixture of spinach, herbs, and vegan feta-style filling. It’s perfect as a main dish, appetizer, or brunch item.
Yield: 8–10 servings
Prep Time: 45 minutes
Bake Time: 45–50 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour 35 minutes
Ingredients
For the Spinach Filling
- 1 kg (2.2 lb) fresh spinach, washed and chopped
- OR 500 g (18 oz) frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 large onion, finely diced
- 4 spring onions, sliced
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup fresh dill, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped (optional)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
For the Vegan Feta Filling
Option 1: Tofu-Based Vegan Feta
- 400 g extra-firm tofu, pressed
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp nutritional yeast
- 1 tsp white miso paste (optional)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
For the Pastry
- 12–14 sheets vegan phyllo (filo) pastry
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp plant milk
Step 1: Prepare the Spinach
Using Fresh Spinach
- Wash spinach thoroughly.
- Remove thick stems if desired.
- Chop roughly.
- Place in a large bowl.
- Sprinkle with ½ teaspoon salt.
- Massage gently for 2–3 minutes.
- Let sit for 10 minutes.
The spinach will release moisture.
- Squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
- Set aside.
Using Frozen Spinach
- Thaw completely.
- Place in a clean kitchen towel.
- Squeeze firmly until very dry.
Removing moisture is essential to prevent a soggy pie.
Step 2: Cook the Aromatics
- Heat 3 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add onion.
- Cook for 6–8 minutes until softened.
- Add spring onions.
- Cook for 2 minutes.
- Add garlic.
- Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
Step 3: Make the Vegan Feta
- Crumble the pressed tofu into a bowl.
- Add:
- Lemon juice
- Olive oil
- Nutritional yeast
- Miso paste
- Salt
- Garlic powder
- Mix thoroughly.
The texture should resemble crumbled feta cheese.
For extra tanginess, let it sit for 15 minutes.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl combine:
- Spinach
- Onion mixture
- Vegan feta mixture
- Dill
- Parsley
- Mint
- Remaining salt
- Pepper
- Nutmeg
Mix thoroughly.
Check Moisture
Grab a handful of filling and squeeze.
If liquid drips out, squeeze the mixture further or stir in:
- 2 tbsp breadcrumbs
or - 1 tbsp semolina
Step 5: Prepare the Baking Dish
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Lightly oil a 23 × 33 cm (9 × 13 inch) baking dish.
Step 6: Prepare the Phyllo
Important Tips
- Keep phyllo covered with a slightly damp towel.
- Work quickly to prevent drying.
- Small tears are normal.
Mix:
- Olive oil
- Plant milk
This mixture will be brushed between layers.
Step 7: Build the Bottom Layers
- Place one phyllo sheet in the dish.
- Brush lightly with oil mixture.
- Add another sheet.
- Brush again.
Repeat with 6–7 sheets.
Allow some overhang around the edges.
Step 8: Add the Filling
- Spread the spinach mixture evenly.
- Press lightly with a spatula.
- Ensure the filling reaches all corners.
Do not compress too firmly.
Step 9: Add the Top Layers
- Place another phyllo sheet on top.
- Brush with oil mixture.
- Continue layering and brushing.
Use the remaining 6–7 sheets.
Fold overhanging edges inward neatly.
Brush the top generously.
Step 10: Score Before Baking
Using a sharp knife:
- Score the pie into squares or diamonds.
- Cut only through the top layers.
This makes serving easier after baking.
Step 11: Bake
Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 45–50 minutes.
The pie is done when:
- Deep golden brown
- Crisp and flaky
- Filling is hot throughout
If browning too quickly, loosely cover with foil.
Step 12: Rest Before Serving
- Remove from oven.
- Let rest for 15–20 minutes.
This helps the filling set and makes slicing cleaner.
Optional Lemon-Herb Drizzle
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp chopped dill
- Pinch of salt
Method
Whisk together and drizzle over warm slices.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- Greek-style salad
- Tomato and cucumber salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Lentil soup
- Vegan yogurt with garlic and dill
Storage
Refrigerator
- Store covered for up to 4 days.
Freezer
- Freeze baked or unbaked pie for up to 2 months.
Reheating
- Reheat in a 180°C (350°F) oven for 10–15 minutes.
- Avoid microwaving if possible, as it softens the pastry.

