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Preheat oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the filling:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the spring onions and a pinch of salt, and sauté until softened and golden, about 8 minutes.
Add the garlic and cook until fragrant.
Add the spinach in batches and cook over high heat until wilted and the liquid has evaporated. Season with salt and pepper.
Remove from heat and stir in the dill and cream cheese. Add the feta and mix well. Prepare the béchamel sauce:
In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for a few minutes until golden brown.
Gradually whisk in the milk to form a smooth sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Cook until the sauce boils and thickens slightly.
Remove from heat. In a small bowl, whisk the eggs. Slowly add a little of the hot béchamel to the eggs to soften them, then return the mixture to the saucepan.
Stir in the grated Parmesan.
Assemble the Pastitsio:
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, then drain.
In a 9 x 13-inch baking dish, place half of the pasta. Top with a ladleful of béchamel sauce, crumbled feta cheese, and a sprinkle of mozzarella. Mix well. Spread the spinach and feta filling evenly over the pasta.
Add a ladleful of béchamel sauce to the remaining pasta and toss with the crumbled feta. Arrange it over the spinach filling in the baking dish.
Sprinkle the mozzarella on top, then pour the remaining béchamel sauce over the top.
Bake in a preheated oven on the center rack for about an hour, or until the béchamel is lightly browned.
Resting and Serving:
Let the pastitsio rest for 2 hours before slicing and serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley or dill if desired.
Pair with a Greek salad or a side of roasted vegetables.
Cooking Tips
Be sure to cook the spinach over high heat to evaporate all the liquid, avoiding a watery filling.
Letting the pastitsio rest ensures crisp slices and better flavor development.
Nutritional Benefits
Spinach: Rich in iron, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants.
Feta Cheese: Provides protein and calcium.
Green Onions: Rich in vitamins K and C and a good source of fiber.
Dietary Information
Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Reheat in a 350°F (180°C) oven until hot.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
Savory: The combination of spinach, feta, and béchamel sauce creates a rich and satisfying dish.
Hearty: Perfect for a hearty, comforting meal.
Versatile: Great for family dinners, potlucks, or special occasions. Conclusion
This spinach and feta pastitsio is a delicious and hearty dish that will undoubtedly become a family favorite. The combination of tender pasta, a savory spinach filling, and a creamy béchamel sauce creates a comforting and satisfying meal. Savor the exquisite flavors and satisfaction of a Greek-inspired home-cooked dish.
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