Name: Turkish Spinach and Feta Börek Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Turkish
Ingredients: ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil; ½ cup finely chopped green onions (mostly white parts); 3 pounds fresh spinach (rinsed, dried, and chopped) or 1½ pounds frozen spinach; 2 large eggs; 12 ounces crumbled feta cheese (about 1½ cups), drained well; ½ cup finely chopped Italian parsley; ½ teaspoon ground black pepper (adjust to taste); Salt (adjust to taste); ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil (plus extra for brushing); ¼ cup yogurt (full-fat or reduced-fat); 1 large egg (beaten); 2 egg yolks; 1 to 2 tablespoons milk; 16 oz phyllo dough (thawed overnight following package instructions); 2 to 3 tablespoons sesame seeds (white and black); ½ teaspoon nigella seeds (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 11 reviews

If you’ve ever dreamed of savoring flaky, golden pastry stuffed with a savory blend of vibrant greens and tangy cheese, then this Turkish Spinach and Feta Börek Recipe is exactly what you need in your life. It’s a true crowd-pleaser, combining fresh spinach, creamy feta, and aromatic herbs wrapped in paper-thin phyllo dough that bakes up crisp and irresistible. Whether you’re after a comforting breakfast, a shareable appetizer, or a satisfying snack, this dish will charm your taste buds and have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You'll Need

A clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with a mix of crumbled white cheese and dark green chopped spinach. A woman's hand holds a wooden spoon which is stirring the ingredients, creating swirls of yellow olive oil that shine on top of the cheese and spinach mixture. The textures show soft, crumbly cheese contrasted with leafy, slightly wet spinach leaves. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Turkish Spinach and Feta Börek Recipe calls for some wonderfully simple ingredients that each layer flavor, color, and texture into the final dish. From the silky olive oil to the fresh spinach and crumbly, salty feta, every element plays a key role in making this börek unforgettable.

Extra virgin olive oil (¼ cup + ⅓ cup plus extra for brushing): Adds richness and helps create that golden, crisp phyllo texture.
Green onions (½ cup finely chopped, mostly white part): Provides a mild onion flavor that complements the spinach beautifully.
Fresh spinach (3 pounds rinsed, dried, and chopped or 1½ pounds frozen): The vibrant green base that lends freshness and moisture to the filling.
Eggs (2 large for filling + 1 beaten + 2 egg yolks): Bind the filling and give color and shine to the pastry top.
Feta cheese (12 ounces, well drained): Salty, crumbly, and creamy — key to the savory filling’s character.
Italian parsley (½ cup finely chopped): Adds a burst of herbaceous brightness.
Ground black pepper (½ teaspoon): For subtle warmth, adjusted to taste.
Salt: Season carefully since feta brings some saltiness already.
Yogurt (¼ cup, full-fat or reduced-fat): Helps keep the phyllo layers tender and flavorful.
Phyllo dough (16 oz, thawed overnight): The delicate, flaky crust that’s essential for this signature börek.
Milk (1 to 2 tablespoons): Mixed with egg yolks to create a glossy, golden finish.
Sesame seeds (2 to 3 tablespoons, white and black): Adds nutty crunch and visual appeal.
Nigella seeds (½ teaspoon, optional): Offers subtle, peppery notes enhancing the topping.

How to Make Turkish Spinach and Feta Börek Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Phyllo Dough

Begin by thawing your phyllo dough overnight in the fridge, then leave it at room temperature for two hours before using. This careful thaw ensures the sheets remain pliable and don’t tear easily as you layer your börek. For best results, keep the dough covered with a damp towel while working to prevent drying out.

Step 2: Cook the Spinach and Onions

In a large pot, gently heat olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the chopped green onions and cook them briefly until softened but not browned, about a minute. Then, add the fresh spinach in batches, letting each portion wilt before adding the next, stirring frequently to evaporate excess liquid. This step is crucial to avoid soggy filling. Once fully cooked, press out as much moisture as possible using a spatula to keep your filling delightfully creamy yet not watery.

Step 3: Mix the Filling

Once the spinach has cooled, transfer it to a large bowl. Add the crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, beaten eggs, black pepper, and a pinch of salt if needed. Gently combine everything to preserve the texture of the spinach and cheese, creating a filling that bursts with flavor in every bite.

Step 4: Prepare the Oil-Yogurt Mixture and Egg Wash

Whisk together olive oil, yogurt, and one beaten egg in a small bowl until smooth. This blend will be brushed between phyllo layers to seal and impart softness. Separately, whisk the egg yolks with milk to make an egg wash, which will give your börek that irresistible golden crust.

Step 5: Assemble the Börek in the Pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly oil a 17x12-inch baking pan and begin layering your phyllo sheets. Place the first sheet and brush with the oil-yogurt mixture, repeating this process with around 12 sheets for the base. Spread the spinach and feta filling evenly on top. Then cover with the remaining 15 sheets, brushing each layer again with the yogurt mixture except the very last one. This layering ensures every bite has a perfect balance of flaky crust and rich filling.

Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches and Bake

Brush the top phyllo sheet generously with the egg yolk and milk wash. Sprinkle sesame seeds and optional nigella seeds across the surface for texture and nutty flavor. Use a sharp knife to cut the pastry into 24 squares, so it’s easier to serve after baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, reduce the heat to 325°F (165°C), and continue baking for another 20 minutes till beautifully golden and crisp. Let it cool for 10 minutes before cutting through completely and serving.

How to Serve Turkish Spinach and Feta Börek Recipe

The image shows two types of baked pastries placed on a white marbled surface. In the foreground, a white plate is filled with square pieces of golden-brown pastry layered with thin, shiny, crisp sheets on top and bottom, and a dark green spinach filling in the middle; the pastries are sprinkled with small sesame seeds on top. In the background, a wooden cutting board holds round, spiral-shaped buns with a similar golden-brown crust, also topped with black and white sesame seeds; the buns have visible swirls of green spinach inside. A small bunch of fresh green parsley lies behind the wooden board, adding a fresh touch to the scene. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The Turkish Spinach and Feta Börek Recipe shines on its own but adding a few fresh garnishes elevates the experience beautifully. Scatter some chopped fresh parsley or a sprinkle of sumac for a tangy kick that wakes up the senses. A light drizzle of lemon-infused olive oil just before serving adds a fresh, bright dimension that contrasts perfectly with the savory filling.

Side Dishes

This börek pairs wonderfully with simple sides, making it a versatile meal. A crisp mixed green salad with a lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness, balancing each bite. For heartier feasts, serve alongside a bowl of comforting Turkish lentil soup or a refreshing cucumber-yogurt salad (cacık) to create a memorable spread inspired by traditional flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Bring a bit of fun to your table by serving the börek in different shapes. The coiled version, or kol böreği, is a fabulous alternative that looks as stunning as it tastes—spiraled and portioned individually for easy sharing. You can also cut the baked sheet version into bite-sized triangles for elegant finger food at parties or brunches, perfect for casual gatherings or special occasions alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have any leftovers from your Turkish Spinach and Feta Börek Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for 2 to 3 days, and the flavors actually deepen, making your next serving just as delightful.

Freezing

You can freeze the assembled börek before baking. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then store it in the freezer for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, bake from frozen adding a bit more time until the pastry is crisp and golden, allowing you to savor this tasty dish whenever the craving hits.

Reheating

To reheat, place slices of börek on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the phyllo soggy, and you want to enjoy every flaky, buttery layer perfectly intact.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen spinach works well, just be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out all excess moisture to prevent the filling from becoming watery.

Is feta cheese the only cheese option for börek?

Feta is traditional and provides the perfect salty tang, but you can experiment with other crumbly cheeses like ricotta or cheese blends if you prefer a milder taste.

Do I have to use phyllo dough, or can I substitute something else?

Phyllo is essential for that signature flaky texture of börek. Puff pastry is a possible substitute but will change the final texture and flavor quite a bit.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling a day before and refrigerate it. Just bring it back to room temperature before assembling to make layering easier.

What’s the best way to prevent phyllo from drying out during assembly?

Keep unused phyllo dough covered with a damp kitchen towel while assembling to maintain its moisture and prevent tearing.

Final Thoughts

This Turkish Spinach and Feta Börek Recipe is such a joyful celebration of simple yet bold flavors wrapped in irresistible, flaky layers of phyllo. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate and has endless versatility for any time of day. I can’t wait for you to try it and share it with your loved ones—once you make it, this recipe will surely become a beloved favorite in your kitchen.

Turkish Spinach and Feta Börek Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need