MEMORIES OF MACEDONIA ~ ZELNIK (Pita Pie) Cheat Version

feta cheese

🥗Healthier: cottage cheese

💰Cheaper: ricotta cheese

Cottage cheese offers a lower-fat option while maintaining flavor.

phyllo dough

🥗Healthier: whole wheat pastry dough

💰Cheaper: homemade dough

Whole wheat adds fiber and nutrients.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Canola oil is more affordable and has a neutral flavor.

spinach

🥗Healthier: kale

💰Cheaper: Swiss chard

Kale provides similar nutrients and is often less expensive.

Chop leeks and wash them thoroughly to remove any grit.

Sauté leeks in a mixture of butter and olive oil with a pinch of salt until the liquid evaporates and they are soft.

Defrost phyllo pastry in the fridge overnight and keep covered with a clean tea towel.

Grease a 10-inch pie plate liberally with the oil mixture.

Layer sheets of phyllo pastry in the greased dish, drizzling with olive oil between layers.

Crumble feta cheese and sprinkle it over the phyllo layers.

Add the sautéed leek mixture on top of the feta.

Gather the phyllo edges over the filling, creating a rustic look, and drizzle with more oil.

Bake in the oven until crispy and golden brown.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens