If you have been searching for a delightful dish that combines rich Greek flavors with the ease of gluten-free cooking, look no further than this Easy Gluten-Free Spanakopita Parcels Recipe. These golden, crispy parcels are packed with fresh spinach, aromatic herbs, and creamy feta cheese wrapped in flaky gluten-free phyllo pastry. They bring a wonderful balance of textures and tastes that will impress at any table, whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or a hungry crowd. Best of all, this recipe is straightforward, making it a perfect go-to when you want a delicious, homemade treat without any fuss.

Easy Gluten-Free Spanakopita Parcels Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple and accessible ingredients is the key to making this recipe shine. Each component plays an essential role, from the freshness of the herbs to the creamy tang of feta and the crisp texture of gluten-free phyllo sheets, creating a harmonious flavor experience.

250 g fresh spinach: Washed and chopped, this leafy green provides vibrant color and a nutritious base packed with iron and vitamins.
150 g feta cheese: Crumbled feta adds a creamy, salty bite typical of classic spanakopita.
1 small onion: Finely chopped to lend sweetness and depth when sautéed.
2 cloves garlic: Minced for a fragrant punch that warms the filling.
2 tablespoons fresh dill: Chopped fresh dill gives a bright, herby note that feels authentically Mediterranean.
2 tablespoons fresh parsley: Adds freshness and mild earthiness that complements the spinach beautifully.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings that classic Greek herb flavor you expect in spanakopita.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing vegetables and enhancing the filling’s richness.
Salt and pepper: To taste, balancing and enhancing the overall flavors.
8 sheets gluten-free phyllo pastry: These sheets create the irresistibly flaky, delicate crust without any gluten concerns.
3 tablespoons melted butter or olive oil: For brushing the phyllo so the parcels bake up golden and crisp.

How to Make Easy Gluten-Free Spanakopita Parcels Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Cooking Space

Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This sets the stage for perfectly crisp parcels and easy cleanup.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the finely chopped onion until it turns translucent and soft. Then add the minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute to release its wonderful aroma without burning.

Step 3: Cook Spinach

Add the chopped fresh spinach to the skillet with the onion and garlic. Cook until the spinach wilts down completely, which should take just a few minutes. Then remove the pan from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly, so it’s easier to handle.

Step 4: Mix the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled spinach mixture with crumbled feta cheese, fresh dill, parsley, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. This vibrant filling is bursting with flavor and ready to become the star of your parcels.

Step 5: Prepare Gluten-Free Phyllo Sheets

Lay one sheet of gluten-free phyllo pastry on a clean surface and brush it lightly with melted butter or olive oil. Place a second sheet on top and brush it again, helping the layers bake into a wonderfully flaky crust.

Step 6: Portion and Fill

Cut the double-layered phyllo sheets into 4 equal squares. Spoon a generous amount of the spinach and feta filling onto each square, making sure not to overfill for easy folding.

Step 7: Fold Into Parcels

Fold each square into a neat parcel by bringing the edges together and pressing gently to seal. This keeps the delicious filling locked inside while baking.

Step 8: Prepare for Baking

Arrange the sealed parcels on your parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with more melted butter or olive oil to encourage a golden, crispy finish once baked.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Place the parcels in your preheated oven and bake them for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they turn beautifully golden brown and crispy. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!

Step 10: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, allow the parcels to cool slightly on a wire rack. This rest lets the filling set and makes them easier to handle while maintaining that delightful crunch.

How to Serve Easy Gluten-Free Spanakopita Parcels Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkling chopped fresh dill or parsley over the warm parcels adds a pop of color and fresh herbal aroma. A light drizzle of lemon juice or a sprinkle of sumac can also brighten the flavors beautifully just before serving.

Side Dishes

These parcels pair wonderfully with a crisp Greek salad of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and olives dressed in olive oil and lemon. You might also serve them alongside a cool tzatziki dip or a bowl of hearty lentil soup for a more substantial meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, arrange the parcels on a large platter lined with fresh greens and edible flowers. Alternatively, stack them like little savory pillows and serve alongside assorted dips to create a shareable appetizer spread at your next gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any parcels left, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They remain tasty and convenient for quick lunches or snacks.

Freezing

You can freeze the baked parcels by placing them in a single layer on a baking tray and freezing until solid, then transferring them to a freezer bag. This method helps keep them from sticking together, allowing you to enjoy homemade spanakopita anytime.

Reheating

Reheat leftover or frozen parcels in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the phyllo soggy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and squeeze out all excess moisture before cooking to prevent watery parcels.

Is it necessary to use the exact herbs listed?

While dill and parsley give authentic flavor, you can experiment with other herbs like basil or mint depending on your taste preferences.

What if I can’t find gluten-free phyllo pastry?

Making your own gluten-free phyllo can be tricky, but some stores carry it frozen. Alternatively, consider using rice paper wrappers or gluten-free puff pastry for a different twist.

Can I make these parcels vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute the feta with a vegan cheese or tofu seasoned with lemon and nutritional yeast, and use olive oil instead of butter for brushing.

How crispy will the parcels be compared to traditional ones?

Thanks to the brushing with butter or oil and proper baking, gluten-free phyllo parcels achieve a delightfully crisp texture that’s very close to the classic wheat-based version.

Final Thoughts

Making this Easy Gluten-Free Spanakopita Parcels Recipe is such a rewarding way to savor traditional Greek flavors without worry or fuss. The balance of crisp, flaky pastry with savory spinach and feta filling is pure joy in each bite. I encourage you to give this recipe a try, whether you’re new to gluten-free cooking or a seasoned home chef looking for a new favorite. It’s a dish that brings warmth, comfort, and deliciousness straight to your table every time.