Spanikopita

this is a super simple authentic crowd pleaser - great for potluck parties or dinner at home.

1 roll of phillo dough* (it comes in a box with 2 in the frozen pastry section)
1/2 cup melted butter or olive oil
16 oz fresh spinach, roughly chopped
16 oz feta
2-3 cloves garlic, minced
4 eggs
basil or oregano to taste
salt to taste

*if the phillo dough is frozen, get it out to thaw an hour or two ahead of time.

1. preheat oven to 350°. in a large bowl, beat eggs, garlic, spices and salt together with a whisk or large fork. using a spatula or wooden spoon, mix in spinach then feta, set aside.
2. melt butter - or pour olive oil into a small dish. place 2 pieces of phillo dough in the bottom of a large (glass) casserole dish. brush the top with butter or olive oil. add 2 more pieces, brush with oil. do this 2 more times (should be 1⁄3 the roll of phillo).
3. spoon half of the spinach mixture on top of the phillo. cover with another 1⁄3 the roll of phillo, layering 2 pieces at a time and brushing with oil. spoon on the remaining spinach mixture and continue layering and oiling the rest of the phillo dough.
4. bake for 45 -55 minutes until the phillo dough is golden brown.

great as a main dish served with Greek salad and lemon rice (as shown in the photo) or as a side dish.