Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach: 7 Irresistible Benefits

Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach

Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach is a delightful culinary experience that transforms your ordinary pizza night into something extraordinary. This Mediterranean-inspired dish offers a crispy crust topped with a creamy blend of cheeses, tender wilted spinach, and the star of the show — aromatic roasted garlic. With its sophisticated yet comforting flavors, this recipe is sure to awaken your senses and transport you to sun-drenched shores, making it a must-try for any pizza lover.

Why You’ll Love This Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach

This dish isn’t just about taste; it packs incredible benefits. First, it combines leafy greens with roasted garlic, providing a rich source of vitamins and minerals. The Greek garlic spinach recipe is not only delicious but also a healthy option for any meal. Here are some compelling reasons to dive into this recipe:

  • Rich in nutrients, including vitamins A and K.
  • Roasted garlic adds a unique flavor and health benefits.
  • Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners.
  • Can be customized with various toppings and cheeses.
  • Pairs well with a variety of dishes, making it versatile.
  • Offers a delightful twist on traditional pizza.
  • It’s a vegetarian-friendly option that satisfies all palates.

This Mediterranean roasted garlic spinach dish is sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients for Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach

Gather these items:

  • 1 lb (450-500g) pizza dough
  • 2 large heads garlic
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Pinch of sea salt
  • Pinch of black pepper
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1½ cups whole milk
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ tsp freshly grated nutmeg
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground white pepper to taste
  • Roasted garlic cloves (from 1 head)
  • 5-6 oz fresh baby spinach
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for wilting spinach)
  • 1½ cups shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese (divided)
  • ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
  • ¼ cup Kalamata olives (pitted and sliced)
  • ¼ small red onion (thinly sliced, optional)
  • A few sun-dried tomatoes (thinly sliced, optional)
  • Fresh dill or oregano (chopped, for garnish)
  • Extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling)

How to Make Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach Step-by-Step

  1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice tops off 2 garlic heads, drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Wrap in foil and roast for 35-45 minutes until soft. Squeeze out cloves; reserve cloves from 1 head for the sauce, and the remaining for topping.
  2. Step 2: Allow pizza dough to come to room temperature (1-2 hours) in a lightly oiled, covered bowl.
  3. Step 3: In a saucepan, melt 3 tbsp unsalted butter. Whisk in 3 tbsp all-purpose flour for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in 1½ cups whole milk until smooth and thickened (5-7 minutes). Remove from heat, stir in ½ cup Parmesan, ¼ tsp nutmeg, salt, and white pepper. Mash and stir in the roasted garlic cloves from one head into the sauce.
  4. Step 4: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet, wilt 5-6 oz baby spinach (2-3 minutes), drain excess liquid, and chop. Prepare remaining toppings: crumble feta cheese, slice Kalamata olives, thinly slice red onion (if using), and thinly slice drained sun-dried tomatoes (if using).
  5. Step 5: Place a pizza stone or heavy baking sheet on the middle rack. Preheat oven to its highest setting (475°F-550°F / 245°C-290°C) for at least 30-60 minutes.
  6. Step 6: On a lightly floured surface or pizza peel, stretch dough into a 12-14 inch circle, leaving a thicker crust. Transfer to parchment on the peel. Spread the white garlic sauce, leaving a 1-inch border. Layer half of the mozzarella, then spinach, feta, olives, and red onion. Dot with the reserved roasted garlic cloves. Top with the remaining mozzarella.
  7. Step 7: Carefully slide the pizza onto the preheated stone or baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and lightly charred.
  8. Step 8: Remove from oven and transfer to a cutting board. Let rest for 3-5 minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped dill or oregano and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Slice and serve immediately.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach

Keep these in mind:

  • This recipe serves 4-6 people.
  • Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
  • Customize toppings as desired.
  • For a more intense garlic flavor, roast extra garlic and add it to the sauce.
  • Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors.

Best Ways to Serve Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach

This roasted garlic spinach dish can be served in various ways:

  • As a main course accompanied by a fresh salad.
  • Slice it into smaller pieces for a delightful appetizer.
  • Pair it with a glass of white wine to enhance the flavors.

How to Store and Reheat Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach

To ensure your leftovers maintain their deliciousness, store any uneaten pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through, making it perfect for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach

What’s the secret to perfect Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach?

The secret lies in roasting the garlic until it’s caramelized, which enhances its flavor and sweetness. This makes all the difference in your spinach with roasted garlic.

Can I make Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the toppings and sauce in advance, then assemble and bake just before serving. This makes it a great option for parties or gatherings.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach?

Ensure the dough is at room temperature before stretching it, and avoid overloading the pizza with toppings, which can make it soggy. Follow the steps closely for the best results!

Variations of Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach You Can Try

If you’re looking to mix things up, consider these variations:

  • Add artichoke hearts for a Mediterranean twist.
  • Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
  • Use whole wheat dough for a healthier option.
  • Experiment with different herbs, like thyme or rosemary, to enhance the flavor profile.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach

Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach: 7 Irresistible Benefits


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Jessica
  • Total Time: 2 hours
  • Yield: 46 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza is a flavorful delight that combines a crispy crust with a creamy cheese blend, wilted spinach, and roasted garlic.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450-500g) pizza dough
  • 2 large heads garlic
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Pinch of sea salt
  • Pinch of black pepper
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1½ cups whole milk
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ tsp freshly grated nutmeg
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground white pepper to taste
  • Roasted garlic cloves (from 1 head)
  • 56 oz fresh baby spinach
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for wilting spinach)
  • 1½ cups shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese (divided)
  • ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
  • ¼ cup Kalamata olives (pitted and sliced)
  • ¼ small red onion (thinly sliced, optional)
  • A few sun-dried tomatoes (thinly sliced, optional)
  • Fresh dill or oregano (chopped, for garnish)
  • Extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice tops off 2 garlic heads, drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Wrap in foil and roast for 35-45 minutes until soft. Squeeze out cloves; reserve cloves from 1 head for the sauce, and the remaining for topping.
  2. Allow pizza dough to come to room temperature (1-2 hours) in a lightly oiled, covered bowl.
  3. In a saucepan, melt 3 tbsp unsalted butter. Whisk in 3 tbsp all-purpose flour for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in 1½ cups whole milk until smooth and thickened (5-7 minutes). Remove from heat, stir in ½ cup Parmesan, ¼ tsp nutmeg, salt, and white pepper. Mash and stir in the roasted garlic cloves from one head into the sauce.
  4. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet, wilt 5-6 oz baby spinach (2-3 minutes), drain excess liquid, and chop. Prepare remaining toppings: crumble feta cheese, slice Kalamata olives, thinly slice red onion (if using), and thinly slice drained sun-dried tomatoes (if using).
  5. Place a pizza stone or heavy baking sheet on the middle rack. Preheat oven to its highest setting (475°F-550°F / 245°C-290°C) for at least 30-60 minutes.
  6. On a lightly floured surface or pizza peel, stretch dough into a 12-14 inch circle, leaving a thicker crust. Transfer to parchment on the peel. Spread the white garlic sauce, leaving a 1-inch border. Layer half of the mozzarella, then spinach, feta, olives, and red onion. Dot with the reserved roasted garlic cloves. Top with the remaining mozzarella.
  7. Carefully slide the pizza onto the preheated stone or baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and lightly charred.
  8. Remove from oven and transfer to a cutting board. Let rest for 3-5 minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped dill or oregano and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Slice and serve immediately.

Notes

  • This recipe serves 4-6 people.
  • Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
  • Customize toppings as desired.
  • Prep Time: 1 hour
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 300
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

Hi! I’m Margaret!

A passionate home cook and food lover who loves nothing more than sharing my favourite recipes with the world.

Subscribe

Get exclusive access to recipes and cooking tips!





You’ll also love