If you love Greek cuisine, you’re likely familiar with spanakopita. This delicious pastry is made with spinach and feta cheese, wrapped in crispy layers of phyllo dough. While spanakopita is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, it’s also possible to reheat it later on. However, to keep the pastry crisp and the filling hot, it’s important to follow some tips and tricks. In this article, we’ll explore how to reheat spanakopita in the oven, microwave, and stovetop, as well as how to store leftovers properly.
How to Reheat Spanakopita in the Oven
If you want to reheat spanakopita in the oven, start by preheating your oven to 350°F. While the oven is heating up, wrap the spanakopita in aluminum foil, making sure it’s tightly sealed. This will prevent the pastry from drying out during reheating.
Once the oven is heated, place the wrapped spanakopita on a baking sheet and put it in the oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is crispy and the filling is hot all the way through.
One important tip for reheating spanakopita in the oven is to avoid opening the foil during baking. This will let out steam and moisture, making the pastry dry out more quickly.
How to Reheat Spanakopita in the Microwave
If you’re short on time, you can also reheat spanakopita in the microwave. However, this method requires a bit more attention to prevent the pastry from becoming soggy.
Start by wrapping the spanakopita in a damp paper towel or cloth. This will add moisture to the pastry and prevent it from drying out in the microwave.
Next, place the wrapped spanakopita in the microwave and heat it on high for 30-second intervals. Check the pastry after each interval to see if it’s hot enough. Depending on your microwave’s power, it may take 1-2 minutes to fully reheat the spanakopita.
One key tip for reheating spanakopita in the microwave is to avoid overheating the filling. If the filling gets too hot, it can become runny and make the pastry soggy. To prevent this, check the temperature of the filling after each interval and adjust the heating time accordingly.
How to Reheat Spanakopita on the Stovetop
If you prefer stovetop cooking, you can also reheat spanakopita on a frying pan or griddle. This method can help the pastry stay crispy and the filling heat evenly.
To reheat spanakopita on the stovetop, start by heating a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat. Brush the surface with a bit of olive oil or butter to prevent sticking.
Next, place the spanakopita on the pan or griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side. Flip the pastry gently with a spatula to avoid breaking the phyllo layers.
One important tip for reheating spanakopita on the stovetop is to avoid overcrowding the pan. If you try to reheat too many pastries at once, they may not heat evenly or become soggy. Instead, cook them in batches if necessary.
How to Store Leftover Spanakopita
If you have leftover spanakopita that you want to reheat later on, it’s important to store it properly. Otherwise, the pastry may become soggy or the filling may spoil.
To store leftover spanakopita, start by letting it cool down to room temperature. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container. Alternatively, you can put it in a plastic freezer bag and seal it tightly.
If you plan to store the spanakopita in the fridge, it can last for up to 3-4 days. To reheat it, follow the instructions above for oven, microwave, or stovetop reheating.
If you want to store the spanakopita for longer than 4 days, it’s best to freeze it. To freeze spanakopita, wrap it in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Place the wrapped pastries in a freezer-safe container or bag and seal it tightly.
Spanakopita can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat frozen spanakopita, first let it thaw in the fridge overnight. Then, follow the instructions above for oven, microwave, or stovetop reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you reheat spanakopita more than once?
It’s best to avoid reheating spanakopita more than once, as this can make the pastry dry out and the filling become tough. If you have leftovers, store them properly and reheat them once before consuming.
Can you freeze spanakopita before cooking?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked spanakopita for later use. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe container. To cook, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and bake it according to the original recipe.
Can you reheat spanakopita in a toaster oven?
Yes, you can reheat spanakopita in a toaster oven. Simply follow the instructions for oven reheating and adjust the temperature and time settings accordingly.
How do you know when spanakopita is reheated properly?
To know if spanakopita is reheated properly, check the temperature of the filling with a food thermometer. It should reach at least 165°F to be safe for consumption. Additionally, the phyllo layers should be crispy and not soggy.
Conclusion
Reheating spanakopita is a great way to enjoy this delicious pastry even after it has cooled down. Whether you use the oven, microwave, or stovetop, following the tips and tricks above can help keep the pastry crispy and the filling hot. Additionally, storing leftovers properly can prevent spoilage and extend the shelf life of the pastry. So next time you have spanakopita leftovers, don’t hesitate to reheat and enjoy them all over again!
