If you’re a fan of Greek cuisine, you’re in for a treat with this delightful article. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the mouthwatering flavors of the Savory Skopelos Cheese Pie Recipe. Filled with the richness of Greek Island specialties, this recipe guarantees to transport you to the sun-kissed shores and azure waters of Skopelos. Prepare yourself for a culinary adventure as we explore the secrets behind creating this savory delight that will have you craving for more. Get your aprons ready, because this cheese pie will become a family favorite in no time!
Skopelos Cheese Pie Ingredients
Fillo pastry sheets
The first ingredient you’ll need for this delicious Skopelos cheese pie recipe is fillo pastry sheets. Fillo pastry is a thin, delicate pastry that adds a crisp and flaky texture to the pie. Make sure to thaw the pastry sheets according to the package instructions before using them.
Skopelos cheese
Skopelos cheese is a traditional Greek cheese that is typically made from sheep’s milk. It has a rich and creamy flavor that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients in this pie. To prepare the filling mixture, crumble the Skopelos cheese into small pieces.
Feta cheese
Another key ingredient in this recipe is feta cheese. Feta cheese is a brined cheese made from the milk of sheep or goats. It has a tangy and salty taste that complements the creaminess of the Skopelos cheese. Crumble the feta cheese into small pieces for the filling mixture.
Greek yogurt
Greek yogurt adds a creamy and slightly tangy flavor to the pie filling. It also helps to bind the ingredients together and gives the pie a smooth and velvety texture. Be sure to use plain Greek yogurt without any added flavors or sweeteners.
Eggs
Eggs are an essential component of the filling mixture as they help to bind all the ingredients together. They also contribute to the richness and structure of the pie. Beat the eggs before adding them to the filling mixture.
Fresh dill
Fresh dill adds a refreshing and herbaceous flavor to the cheese pie. Chop the fresh dill into small pieces before mixing it with the other ingredients. This herb will give the pie a delightful burst of freshness.
Fresh mint
Fresh mint adds a subtle and aromatic touch to the cheese pie. Similar to the dill, chop the fresh mint into small pieces before adding it to the filling mixture. The mint will add a hint of coolness and elevate the flavors of the other ingredients.
Olive oil
Olive oil is used in multiple steps of the recipe. It is used to grease the baking dish and brush the layers of fillo pastry. Olive oil adds a rich and fruity flavor to the pie and helps to achieve a golden and crispy crust.
Salt
Salt is an essential seasoning that enhances the flavors of the Skopelos and feta cheeses. Add salt to the filling mixture according to your taste preferences. Remember to taste the mixture before adding too much salt, as feta cheese can already be quite salty.
Pepper
Pepper adds a subtle spicy kick to the pie and balances out the flavors of the cheeses and herbs. Add pepper to the filling mixture to your liking. Remember that the pie should not be overly spicy, but rather have a well-rounded and balanced flavor profile.
Preparation
Thaw the fillo pastry sheets
To ensure that the fillo pastry sheets are easy to work with and don’t tear, it is important to thaw them properly. Remove the fillo pastry sheets from the freezer and follow the package instructions for thawing. Typically, this involves leaving the pastry sheets at room temperature for a specified amount of time. To prevent the fillo pastry sheets from drying out, cover them with a damp towel while they thaw.
Prepare the filling mixture
The filling mixture is what gives this Skopelos cheese pie its delicious flavors and creamy texture. Start by crumbling the Skopelos and feta cheeses into small pieces. Then, chop the fresh dill and mint into small pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine the Skopelos cheese, feta cheese, Greek yogurt, beaten eggs, chopped dill, and chopped mint. Mix everything together until well combined. Season the filling mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
Grease the baking dish
Choosing the right baking dish is important for ensuring even cooking and a beautiful presentation of your cheese pie. Select a round or rectangular baking dish based on your preference. Brush the inside of the dish with olive oil, making sure to coat all the sides and corners. This will prevent the pie from sticking to the dish and make it easier to remove once it’s baked.
Assemble the pie
Assembling the pie is where all the individual components come together to create a delicious and visually pleasing dish. Start by placing a sheet of fillo pastry in the greased baking dish. Brush the pastry sheet with olive oil to ensure a crispy and golden crust. Repeat this step with multiple layers of fillo pastry, overlapping them slightly to create a sturdy base for the filling. To achieve an even distribution of layers, alternate the direction of each layer. Leave some excess fillo pastry hanging over the sides of the baking dish. This will be folded over the top of the pie to create a beautiful and rustic finish.
Brush with olive oil
Before baking the pie, it’s important to brush the top layer of fillo pastry with olive oil. Drizzle a thin, even coating of olive oil over the top layer, making sure to cover the entire surface. This will help the pastry to brown and become crisp during baking. The olive oil will also add a rich and aromatic flavor to the pie.
Bake in the oven
Preheat the oven to a specific temperature as indicated in the recipe. Once the oven is preheated, place the baking dish with the assembled pie inside. Bake the pie for a certain amount of time, usually until the top becomes golden brown and crispy. Baking times may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on the pie to avoid overcooking or burning. The baking process will transform the layers of fillo pastry into a beautifully crisp and golden crust, while the filling cooks and sets.
Let cool before serving
Once the pie is finished baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack. This will prevent the bottom of the pie from becoming soggy. Letting the pie cool also makes it easier to handle and slice without the filling oozing out. Once the pie has cooled to room temperature, you can cut it into slices and serve. The pie can also be served warm if desired, but be careful not to burn yourself on the hot filling.
Variations and Tips
Add sautéed onions for extra flavor
To enhance the flavors of the cheese pie, consider adding sautéed onions to the filling mixture. Sauté the onions in a bit of olive oil until they become translucent and slightly caramelized. Allow the onions to cool before mixing them with the other ingredients. The addition of sautéed onions will add a delicious savory note to the pie.
Try different herbs such as parsley or oregano
While the recipe calls for fresh dill and mint, you can experiment with different herbs to suit your taste preferences. Consider using parsley or oregano as alternatives to the dill and mint. These herbs will add their own unique flavors and aromas to the cheese pie.
Experiment with adding spinach or other vegetables
For a healthier twist and added nutritional value, you can incorporate spinach or other vegetables into the filling mixture. Sauté the spinach or vegetables until they are cooked and excess moisture is removed. Allow them to cool before adding them to the mixture. The addition of vegetables will not only make the pie more colorful but also provide a range of delicious flavors.
Serve with a side of Greek salad
To complete your Greek culinary experience, serve the Skopelos cheese pie with a side of traditional Greek salad. The fresh and vibrant flavors of the salad, consisting of tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, onions, and feta cheese, will complement the richness of the pie. The combination of the savory cheese pie and refreshing salad is a perfect match.
Pair with a glass of white wine
A glass of chilled white wine is the perfect accompaniment to this savory Skopelos cheese pie. The crisp and fruity flavors of the wine will contrast beautifully with the creamy and tangy taste of the pie. Choose a white wine that pairs well with cheese, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a Chardonnay, to enhance the overall dining experience.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge
If there are any leftovers from your Skopelos cheese pie, be sure to store them properly. Place the remaining pie in an airtight container and refrigerate. The pie can be enjoyed cold or reheated in the oven for a short period of time. Proper storage will help maintain the pie’s flavors and texture, ensuring that you can enjoy it for days to come.
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Author: Bob
With over 20 years in Bioinformatics and AI in Molecular Diagnostics, Bob Stavrou advises BiCos, focusing on authenticating OLIVE OIL DNA. He's also a passionate contributor to YouTube Cooking with Greek People and appeared on Greek TV show Savvatokiriako Me Ton Manesi, bridging science and culinary arts. Watch it on Alpha TV.
