Turkish Borek with Spinach and Feta Cheese Recipe

If you’re craving something flaky, savory, and totally comforting, then you’re going to love this Turkish Borek with Spinach and Feta Cheese Recipe. I absolutely love how this dish strikes the perfect balance between buttery, crispy layers of phyllo dough and that rich, tangy filling of spinach and salty feta. When I first tried making borek at home, I was surprised by how simple it is—yet it tastes like you ordered it from a charming street bakery in Istanbul. Stick with me as I walk you through every step, share my kitchen-tested tricks, and show you how this fantastic recipe can become your new go-to for lunch, dinner, or even a party snack.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together so harmoniously here—each one playing an important role in that signature borek flavor and texture. When shopping, try to grab fresh spinach and good-quality feta since they really shine in this recipe.

• Olive oil: Use extra virgin for the best flavor when sautéing and brushing the phyllo.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds a subtle kick that boosts the spinach filling.
• Medium-sized onion: Chopped finely to soften and sweeten the filling.
• Spinach: Fresh and roughly chopped, this is the star green veggie in the filling.
• Feta cheese: Crumbled for that salty, creamy texture classic to borek.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To enhance and balance the savory notes.
• Milk: Adds moisture and richness to the egg wash for crisp, golden layers.
• Eggs: Use to bind the filling and also in the milk mixture to brush on phyllo.
• Phyllo dough sheets: These thin, delicate layers become super flaky and crispy when baked—handle with care!

Variations

I love how flexible this Turkish Borek with Spinach and Feta Cheese Recipe can be. While the classic pairing of spinach and feta is unbeatable, sometimes I like to tweak the filling depending on what’s in my fridge or the mood I’m in—feel free to make it your own!

• Add Fresh Herbs: When I’ve got some dill or parsley on hand, tossing in a handful makes the filling so much brighter and more fragrant.
• Swap the Cheese: My family goes crazy for using ricotta or a mix of mozzarella with feta when we want a milder, creamier flavor.
• Add Mushrooms or Leeks: If you want a heartier bite, lightly sautéed mushrooms or leeks can be great additions.
• Make it Vegan: I discovered this trick when omitting the feta and replacing it with seasoned tofu crumble, plus substituting the egg wash with olive oil and plant-based milk—it’s delicious!

How to Make Turkish Borek with Spinach and Feta Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics and Prepare Spinach Filling

Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute—don’t let it burn! Then add the roughly chopped spinach. It’ll look like a lot at first, but it wilts down quickly. Stir continuously until all the moisture evaporates, and the spinach is tender, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat, season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, and let it cool slightly before mixing in the crumbled feta cheese.

Step 2: Prepare The Egg and Milk Mixture

While the spinach mixture cools, whisk together the eggs, milk, and 5 tablespoons of olive oil in a bowl. This mixture will be brushed over the phyllo dough layers to help them turn golden and hold together beautifully once baked.

Step 3: Layer the Phyllo Dough

Working carefully because phyllo is super delicate (and prone to drying out quickly!), lightly brush one sheet of phyllo with the egg and milk mixture. Place another sheet on top, brush again, and repeat until you’ve layered all three sheets. Spread the spinach and feta filling evenly on top.

Step 4: Roll or Fold, Then Bake

Traditionally, you can roll the layers like a log or fold them like a pie. I usually roll mine because it’s easier for portioning later. Brush more of the egg and milk mixture over the top for that perfect golden crust. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 20 minutes, or until the borek is beautifully golden and crisp on top.

How to Serve Turkish Borek with Spinach and Feta Cheese Recipe

Garnishes

I usually sprinkle a little fresh parsley or dill on top once it comes out of the oven—it adds that fresh pop of color and flavor I adore. A light dusting of sumac or a drizzle of tangy yogurt on the side is also lovely for an authentic touch.

Side Dishes

My go-to sides are always a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or a simple tomato and cucumber salad for freshness. This borek also pairs beautifully with a bowl of Turkish-style yogurt or even a cup of sweet mint tea.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, I like to cut the borek into small triangles and serve them on a pretty platter lined with fresh herbs. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a nice crunch contrast. It also looks fabulous stacked alongside a colorful mezze spread for that authentic vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover borek tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to 3 days, though honestly, it tends to disappear faster in my house!

Freezing

I’ve had great success freezing uncooked borek. After assembling and rolling it, I wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to a month. When I want to bake it, I thaw it overnight in the fridge first, then bake as usual for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.

Reheating

I reheat leftover borek in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 10 minutes to crisp it back up. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that signature crunch!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Honestly, this Turkish Borek with Spinach and Feta Cheese Recipe has become one of my absolute favorites—it’s one of those dishes that magically impresses without needing hours of prep or fancy ingredients. Whether you’re feeding family, impressing friends, or just want a cozy treat for yourself, I promise you’ll enjoy every flaky bite. Give it a try and see how quickly borek becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen!

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