Macedonian Zelnik (Зелник)

Зелник (Macedonian Zelnik) is a traditional Macedonian savory pastry made with phyllo dough and a delicious filling of spinach and cheese. It's a popular dish in Macedonian cuisine and is perfect for a hearty and flavorful meal.

Macedonian Zelnik (Зелник)

Ingredients

  • 1 package of phyllo dough
  • 500g fresh spinach, chopped
  • 200g feta cheese, crumbled
  • 100g ricotta cheese
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. In a large bowl, mix together the chopped spinach, feta cheese, ricotta cheese, chopped onion, and beaten eggs. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Brush a baking dish with olive oil. Layer 5 sheets of phyllo dough in the bottom of the dish, brushing each sheet with olive oil.
  4. Spread half of the spinach and cheese mixture over the phyllo dough.
  5. Layer 5 more sheets of phyllo dough on top of the spinach mixture, brushing each sheet with olive oil.
  6. Spread the remaining spinach and cheese mixture over the phyllo dough.
  7. Finish by layering the remaining phyllo dough sheets on top, brushing each sheet with olive oil.
  8. Cut the zelnik into squares or triangles, then bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes or until golden brown.
  9. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
20 minutes
Cooking time:
40 minutes
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Oven

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
300 per serving
Carbohydrates
25g
Protein
15g
Fat
18g

Supplies

Baking dish Brush

Tools

Oven

Serving suggestions

Serve the зелник with a side of fresh salad and a dollop of Greek yogurt.

Tips & tricks

Make sure to brush each layer of phyllo dough with olive oil to achieve a crispy and golden crust.

Cost

$10