Feta and Spinach Manakish

Feta and Spinach Manakish is a delightful Lebanese flatbread topped with a savory mixture of fresh spinach and tangy feta cheese, offering a perfect balance of flavors. This vegetarian dish is ideal for a light meal or snack, showcasing the vibrant ingredients of Middle Eastern cuisine.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour - 200 grams
• Warm water - 120 ml
• Active dry yeast - 5 grams
• Olive oil - 15 ml
• Salt - 5 grams
• Fresh spinach - 150 grams, chopped
• Feta cheese - 100 grams, crumbled
• Garlic - 1 clove, minced
• Ground black pepper - to taste
• Sumac - 1 teaspoon (optional)
• Sesame seeds - for sprinkling (optional)

Steps

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in warm water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
3. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes, or until doubled in size.
4. While the dough is rising, heat a pan over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, then add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Season with black pepper and sumac, if using. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Once the dough has risen, preheat your oven to 220°C (428°F).
6. Divide the dough into two equal pieces and roll each piece out into a flat circle about 25 cm in diameter.
7. Transfer the rolled dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spread the sautéed spinach mixture evenly over each dough circle and top with crumbled feta cheese.
8. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top if desired, then bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden.
9. Remove from the oven, let cool for a minute, slice, and serve warm.

Nutrition

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 12 g
• Carbs: 40 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Cholesterol: 30 mg
• Total Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Water: 0.15 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in iron and vitamins from spinach, promoting healthy blood and immune function.
• Feta cheese provides a good source of calcium and protein, supporting bone health.

Tags