What to Serve with Spanakopita – 25 Best Side Dishes

Spanakopita is a delicious Greek dish that is made with spinach, feta cheese, and phyllo dough.

It’s one of my favorite dishes to make for dinner because it’s simple yet so tasty.

But when I’m making spanakopita, I always struggle with what side dishes to serve with it.

I want something that will complement the flavors of the dish and make the meal more exciting.

So yeah, knowing what to serve with spanakopita isn’t all that easy.

So if you are in the same boat, then you are in luck!

I’ve rounded up 25 of the best side dishes to serve with spanakopita.

From roasted vegetables to salads and everything in between, there is sure to be something on this list that your family will love.

Read Also: The 10 Best Sauces For Spanakopita

What to Serve with Spanakopita – 25 Best Side Dishes

Spanakopita is a delicious Greek dish made with spinach and feta cheese, but it’s not complete without the perfect side dishes.

Here are twenty-five ideas for sides to serve with spanakopita that will perfectly complement its flavors:

Vegetables

Here are 5 vegetable sides that go great with spanakopita and will enhance its flavors:

Grilled or roasted asparagus

Asparagus is a vegetable that belongs to the lily family. It has long, thin stalks and small buds at the top.

The flavor of asparagus can range from sweet to bitter depending on how it is cooked.

• Tip: Grilled or roasted asparagus makes an excellent side dish for spanakopita. To enhance its flavors, try drizzling with olive oil and lemon juice before grilling or roasting in the oven. You can also add herbs such as oregano, thyme, or rosemary for extra flavor. Serve alongside your spanakopita for a delicious meal!

Greek Salad

Greek salad is a traditional Mediterranean dish made with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, feta cheese, olives and herbs.

It is usually dressed with olive oil and vinegar or lemon juice.

• Tip: To enhance the flavors of spanakopita when served as a side dish, try adding some fresh vegetables to your Greek salad. Try adding bell peppers for sweetness and crunch, red onion for sharpness and flavor, or even some diced avocado for creaminess. You can also add some crumbled feta cheese to give it an extra salty kick.

Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables are a delicious and easy way to add flavor and texture to any meal. Roasting is a cooking method that uses dry heat, usually in an oven, to cook food.

The high temperature of the oven causes the natural sugars in the vegetables to caramelize, creating a sweet and savory flavor.

• Tip: To enhance the flavors of spanakopita, try roasting some seasonal vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, mushrooms or onions. Toss them with olive oil and herbs like oregano or thyme before roasting for extra flavor. Serve alongside your spanakopita for a complete meal!

Greek Dolmades

Greek Dolmades are a traditional Greek dish made of vine leaves stuffed with rice, herbs, and spices.

The filling is typically seasoned with lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and dill. The vine leaves are then rolled up into small bundles and steamed or boiled until tender.

• Tip: To enhance the flavors of spanakopita when served alongside Greek Dolmades, try adding some crumbled feta cheese to the stuffing mixture for an extra salty kick. You can also add some chopped fresh mint or parsley to the mix for a bright flavor contrast that will bring out the best in both dishes.

Garlic & Herb Grilled Eggplant

Garlic & Herb Grilled Eggplant is a delicious vegetable side dish that pairs perfectly with spanakopita.

It is made by slicing eggplants into thick slices, marinating them in a mixture of garlic, herbs, and olive oil, then grilling them until they are tender and lightly charred.

The result is an incredibly flavorful side dish that will enhance the flavors of your spanakopita.

• Tip: To make this dish even more flavorful, try adding some crumbled feta cheese to the top of the grilled eggplant before serving. This will add a salty tanginess that complements the earthy flavor of the eggplant and brings out the flavors of your spanakopita even more!

Starches

Here are 5 starchy sides that go great with spanakopita and will enhance its flavors:

Crispy Roast Potatoes

• What Is It? Crispy roast potatoes are a classic side dish that is easy to make and can be served with almost any meal. The potatoes are cut into cubes, tossed in oil, and roasted until golden brown and crispy on the outside. They can be seasoned with herbs or spices for extra flavor.
• Easy Tip: To get the crispiest potatoes possible, use starchy varieties such as russet or Yukon Golds. Cut them into even-sized cubes so they cook evenly, then toss them in oil before roasting at a high temperature (400°F). This will help create a crunchy exterior while keeping the inside soft and fluffy. Serve hot with your favorite main course!

Rice pilaf

• What Is It? Rice pilaf is a classic side dish made with rice, vegetables, and herbs. The rice is cooked in broth or stock to give it a flavorful base. Vegetables such as onions, carrots, celery, and mushrooms are often added for flavor and texture. Herbs like parsley, thyme, oregano, and bay leaves can also be used to enhance the flavor of the dish.
• Easy Tip: To make a quick and easy version of rice pilaf at home, start by sautéing some diced onion in butter or oil until softened. Then add your favorite combination of chopped vegetables (such as carrots and celery) along with some minced garlic. Add long-grain white rice to the pan and stir until lightly browned before adding chicken or vegetable broth to cover the ingredients by about an inch. Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce heat to low; cover pot with lid and simmer for 15 minutes or until all liquid has been absorbed into the rice. Fluff with a fork before serving!

Pita bread

• What Is It? Pita bread is a type of flatbread that is popular in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine. It is made from wheat flour, water, yeast, and salt. The dough is kneaded into a round shape and then baked in an oven until it puffs up. The result is a soft, chewy bread with a pocket inside that can be filled with various ingredients to make sandwiches or used as the base for other dishes such as spanakopita.
• Easy Tip: Toasting the pita before serving will give it extra flavor and crunch. Simply brush each side lightly with olive oil and place on a baking sheet in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 8-10 minutes until golden brown. Serve warm alongside your favorite spanakopita recipe!

Roasted garlic bread

• What Is It? Roasted garlic bread is a popular side dish for spanakopita, the Greek spinach and feta cheese pie. The bread is made by slicing a loaf of crusty Italian or French bread into thick slices, brushing each slice with olive oil, and then topping it with roasted garlic cloves. The slices are then baked until golden brown and crispy.
• Easy Tip: To make roasted garlic bread even more flavorful, try adding some freshly chopped herbs such as oregano or thyme to the olive oil before brushing it onto the slices of bread. This will add an extra layer of flavor that pairs perfectly with spanakopita!

Grilled or steamed corn on the cob

• What Is It? Grilled or steamed corn on the cob is a popular side dish for spanakopita. Corn on the cob is simply fresh corn that has been cooked and served with butter, salt, and pepper. The kernels are usually grilled or steamed until they are tender and juicy.
• Easy Tip: To make this side dish even more flavorful, try adding some herbs such as thyme or oregano to the butter before spreading it over the corn. You can also add some grated Parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy flavor. Serve with a wedge of lemon for added zest!

Proteins

Here are 5 protein-heavy sides that go great with spanakopita:

Grilled chicken skewers

• What Is It? Grilled chicken skewers are a popular side dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. The main ingredients are chicken, vegetables, and spices. The chicken is cut into cubes and threaded onto metal or wooden skewers with the vegetables. The skewers are then grilled over an open flame until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables have softened.
• Easy Tip: To make sure your grilled chicken skewers turn out perfectly every time, be sure to marinate them for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This will help ensure that they stay juicy and flavorful while cooking on the grill. You can also add some extra flavor by brushing them with a sauce or glaze during the last few minutes of cooking.

Greek-style lamb chops

• What Is It? Greek-style lamb chops are a popular side dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. The dish consists of marinated lamb chops cooked in a skillet with garlic, oregano, lemon juice, and olive oil. The result is tender, juicy meat with a delicious Mediterranean flavor.
• Easy Tip: To make the most flavorful Greek-style lamb chops, it’s important to marinate the meat for at least an hour before cooking. This will help infuse the flavors into the meat and ensure that it stays moist and juicy when cooked.

Grilled or baked fish fillets

• What Is It? Grilled or baked fish fillets are a popular side dish that can be served with a variety of accompaniments. Fish fillets are usually made from white-fleshed fish such as cod, haddock, or tilapia and can be cooked in the oven or on the grill. The fillets are typically marinated in herbs and spices before cooking to add flavor and moisture.
• Easy Tip: To make sure your grilled or baked fish fillets come out perfectly cooked every time, use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness. Insert it into the thickest part of the fillet; when it reads 145°F (63°C), your fish is done!

Greek lamb gyros with pita

• What Is It? Greek lamb gyros with pita is a popular side dish that consists of thinly sliced, marinated lamb served in warm pita bread. The meat is usually seasoned with oregano, garlic, and lemon juice before being cooked on a rotisserie or grill. The gyro is then topped with tomatoes, onions, lettuce, feta cheese, and tzatziki sauce.
• Easy Tip: To make this dish even easier to prepare at home, you can purchase pre-marinated gyro meat from the grocery store. This will save time and effort when it comes to preparing the meal. You can also use pre-made tzatziki sauce for an even quicker meal!

Read Also: Lamb Gyro Wine Pairing: The Best Wines for Lamb Gyros

Chickpea Salad With Lemon, Parmesan, and Fresh Herbs

• What Is It? Chickpea salad with lemon, Parmesan, and fresh herbs is a popular side dish that combines the nutty flavor of chickpeas with bright citrus notes from lemon juice and zest. The addition of Parmesan cheese adds a salty richness to the salad, while fresh herbs like parsley and basil provide an herbal aroma. This easy-to-make dish can be served as a side or enjoyed on its own as a light lunch.
• Easy Tip: To make this dish even easier to prepare, you can use canned chickpeas instead of cooking them from scratch. Simply drain and rinse the beans before adding them to the salad. You can also substitute other types of cheese for the Parmesan if desired; feta or goat cheese would both work well in this recipe.

Sauces and Dips

Here are 5 sauces and dips that go great with spanakopita:

Tzatziki sauce

• What Is It? Tzatziki is a Greek sauce or dip made with yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and herbs. It’s creamy and tangy in flavor and pairs well with grilled meats, vegetables, pita bread, and more.
• Easy Tip: To make tzatziki sauce quickly and easily at home, simply combine plain Greek yogurt with grated cucumber (squeeze out the excess liquid), minced garlic, fresh dill or mint leaves (or both!), olive oil, lemon juice or white wine vinegar to taste. Add salt and pepper to taste as well. Serve chilled for best results!

Hummus

• What Is It? Hummus is a popular Middle Eastern dip or spread made from cooked, mashed chickpeas blended with tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic and salt. It is typically served as an appetizer or snack with pita bread or vegetables.
• Easy Tip: To make hummus quickly and easily at home, simply combine one can of drained chickpeas with two tablespoons of tahini paste in a food processor. Add two cloves of minced garlic, the juice of one lemon and a pinch of salt to taste. Blend until smooth and creamy then drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil before serving.

Baba ganoush

• What Is It? Baba ganoush is a Middle Eastern dip or spread made from mashed eggplant, tahini (sesame paste), olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic. The eggplant is usually roasted over an open flame to give it a smoky flavor. It can be served as an appetizer with pita bread or vegetables for dipping, or used as a condiment on sandwiches and wraps.
• Easy Tip: To make baba ganoush quickly and easily at home, start by roasting the eggplant in the oven until it’s soft and charred. Then mash the flesh with a fork before stirring in tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt and pepper to taste. Serve chilled or at room temperature with warm pita bread or crudités for dipping.

Raita

• What Is It? Raita is a popular Indian condiment made with yogurt, cucumber, and spices. It’s cooling and creamy, making it the perfect accompaniment to spicy dishes like curries or tandoori chicken. The combination of yogurt and cucumbers creates a refreshing flavor that helps balance out the heat from spicier dishes.
• Easy Tip: To make raita quickly and easily, simply mix together plain Greek yogurt with grated cucumber, chopped fresh mint leaves, salt to taste, and a pinch of cumin powder. Serve chilled as an accompaniment to your favorite Indian dish!

Spicy harissa sauce

• What Is It? Harissa is a spicy North African condiment made from chili peppers, garlic, olive oil, and spices such as cumin and coriander. It has a smoky flavor with a hint of sweetness and can range in heat from mild to very hot. The sauce is often used as an accompaniment to couscous or other grain dishes, but it can also be used as a marinade for meats or vegetables.
• Easy Tip: To make harissa even easier to use, try making it into a paste by adding more olive oil until the desired consistency is reached. This will allow you to spread it on sandwiches or mix it into dips like hummus for extra flavor. Harissa pairs especially well with spanakopita – just add some of the paste directly onto each triangle before baking!

Desserts

Here are 5 desserts you can serve with spanakopita:

Greek Baklava

• What Is It? Greek baklava is a traditional dessert made with layers of phyllo dough, chopped nuts, and honey. The dough is layered with butter or oil and then baked until golden brown. Once cooled, the pastry is cut into diamond shapes and topped with a syrup or honey glaze.
• Easy Tip: To make Greek baklava easier to prepare, use pre-made phyllo dough instead of making it from scratch. This will save time and effort while still providing delicious results! Be sure to brush each layer generously with melted butter or oil before adding the next layer for maximum flavor and flaky texture.

Greek Yogurt with Berries, Nuts and Honey

• What Is It? Greek yogurt with berries, nuts and honey is a popular dessert that can be enjoyed regardless of what you had for dinner. This delicious treat combines the creamy texture of Greek yogurt with the sweetness of fresh or frozen berries, crunchy nuts, and a drizzle of honey. The combination creates a light yet satisfying dessert that can be enjoyed any time of day.
• Easy Tip: To make this dessert even easier to prepare, try using pre-made berry compote or jam instead of fresh or frozen berries. You can also use store-bought granola as an alternative to the nuts for added crunch. For an extra special touch, top your yogurt with edible flowers such as pansies or violets for a beautiful presentation.

Traditional Greek Galaktoboureko

• What Is It? Galaktoboureko is a traditional Greek dessert made with layers of phyllo dough filled with a creamy custard and topped with a sweet syrup. The custard is usually flavored with lemon or orange zest, while the syrup can be flavored with honey, cinnamon, or other spices. This classic Greek dessert is often served as part of a larger meal such as spanakopita or moussaka.
• Easy Tip: To make this delicious treat even easier to prepare, you can use store-bought phyllo dough instead of making your own from scratch. Just be sure to thaw it out before using it so that it doesn’t tear when you are layering it in the pan. You can also substitute the custard filling for ricotta cheese if desired.

Kataifi

• What Is It? Kataifi is a popular Greek dessert made with shredded phyllo dough, butter, and syrup. The dough is mixed with melted butter and then layered in a pan before being baked until golden brown. Once cooled, the kataifi is drizzled with honey or syrup and topped with chopped nuts for added flavor.
• Easy Tip: To make kataifi even easier to prepare, you can buy pre-shredded phyllo dough from most grocery stores. This will save you time when making the dish as all you need to do is mix it with the butter and layer it in the pan before baking. You can also use store-bought syrup or honey instead of making your own if desired.

Loukoumades (Greek Donuts)

• What Is It? Loukoumades are a traditional Greek dessert made of deep-fried dough balls that are soaked in honey syrup and sprinkled with cinnamon. They have been around for centuries, but they remain popular today as a delicious treat to enjoy after dinner or as an accompaniment to spanakopita.
• Easy Tip: To make loukoumades at home, all you need is some basic ingredients like flour, yeast, sugar, and oil. The dough should be left to rise before it is fried in hot oil until golden brown. Once cooked, the donuts can be dipped in honey syrup and topped with cinnamon for a sweet finish.

Drinks

Here are 5 drinks that go great with spanakopita:

Greek beer or wine

• What Is It? Greek beer and wine are popular beverages to enjoy with a meal, especially when served alongside spanakopita. Beer is often light and refreshing, while wines range from dry whites to sweet dessert wines. Both can be found in most grocery stores or specialty shops.
• Easy Tip: When pairing beer or wine with spanakopita, look for something that will complement the flavors of the dish without overpowering them. A crisp white wine such as Assyrtiko or a light lager like Mythos are both good choices. For those who prefer reds, try an Agiorgitiko or Xinomavro.

Sparkling water with lemon or mint

• What Is It? Sparkling water with lemon or mint is a refreshing and light beverage that pairs perfectly with spanakopita. The sparkling water adds a bit of fizz to the drink, while the lemon or mint provides a bright flavor. This combination makes for an easy-to-make and delicious beverage that can be enjoyed any time of day.
• Easy Tip: To make this drink even more special, add some fresh herbs such as basil or rosemary to the mix. This will give it an extra layer of flavor and make it even more enjoyable!

Greek coffee

• What Is It? Greek coffee is a traditional beverage made from finely ground coffee beans, water, and sugar. The mixture is boiled in a small pot called a briki until it forms a thick foam on top. Greek coffee is served in small cups with the grounds still in the cup.
• How To Make It: To make the perfect cup of Greek coffee, start by adding one teaspoon of finely ground coffee to your briki for each cup you are making. Add one teaspoon of sugar per cup as well (or more or less depending on your preference). Then add cold water to fill the briki up to just below the spout and bring it to a boil over medium heat. Once it starts boiling, remove from heat and let sit for 30 seconds before returning it back to low heat until you see foam forming at the top. Serve immediately!

Lemon-infused iced tea

• What Is It? Lemon-infused iced tea is a refreshing and flavorful beverage that can be enjoyed any time of day. This drink combines the classic flavors of black tea with the tartness of fresh lemon juice, creating a unique flavor profile that pairs perfectly with savory dishes like spanakopita. The addition of sugar or honey to this drink adds sweetness and depth, making it an ideal accompaniment to any meal.
• Easy Tip: To make this delicious beverage quickly and easily, simply steep two bags of black tea in boiling water for five minutes before adding freshly squeezed lemon juice and sweetener to taste. Allow the mixture to cool completely before pouring over ice cubes in a tall glass. Garnish with a slice of lemon for added flavor and presentation!