If you're looking for a delicious and satisfying snack, consider trying Spanakopita! Two pieces of this Greek pastry weigh in at a total of 140 calories, making them a great option for those watching their calorie intake.

But Spanakopita isn't just low in calories - it's also packed with nutrients that can help support your overall health. Keep reading to learn more about this tasty treat and its many benefits!

In this article, we'll explore what Spanakopita is, its calorie and nutrient content, and some other important information you should know about this delicious pastry.

What is Spanakopita?

Spanakopita is a Greek pastry that's made with phyllo dough and stuffed with a mixture of spinach, feta cheese, and various herbs and spices. It's typically baked until golden brown and crispy, and then served warm as a snack or appetizer. This savory pastry has been a popular dish in Greece for centuries, and it's now enjoyed by people all over the world. Traditionally, Spanakopita is made in large sheets and then cut into smaller pieces, but you can also find mini versions that are perfect for snacking on-the-go.

Calorie Content

As mentioned earlier, two pieces of Spanakopita (56 g) contain a total of 140 calories. This makes it a relatively low-calorie snack option, especially given its delicious flavor and satisfying texture. Of course, calorie content can vary depending on the ingredients used to make the Spanakopita, as well as its size and shape. If you're concerned about your calorie intake, be sure to read food labels carefully and track your portions accordingly.

Nutritional Benefits

In addition to being low in calories, Spanakopita also offers a number of important nutritional benefits. For starters, it's a great source of antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage and reduce your risk of chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease. Spanakopita is also high in fiber, which can help you feel full and satisfied for longer periods of time. This can be especially helpful if you're trying to lose weight or improve your overall diet. And because it's made with spinach, Spanakopita is also a great source of vitamins and minerals like iron, magnesium, and calcium, which are essential for maintaining healthy bones, muscles, and nerves.

Protein Content

While Spanakopita is not a significant source of protein, it does contain some thanks to the feta cheese and spinach that are used to make it. Depending on the recipe you use, you can expect to get around 4-6 grams of protein per serving. While this isn't a huge amount, it can still be beneficial for supporting muscle growth and repair.

Fat Content

Spanakopita can be a moderate source of fat due to the phyllo dough and feta cheese used to make it. However, the fat content can vary depending on the recipe and portion size. In general, you can expect to get around 8-10 grams of fat per serving, with some of this coming from heart-healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats.

Carbohydrate Content

As a pastry made with phyllo dough, Spanakopita is a significant source of carbohydrates. Depending on the size and recipe used, you can expect to get around 15-20 grams of carbs per serving. While this can be beneficial for providing quick energy, it's also important to balance your carb intake with other nutrients like protein and fat to prevent blood sugar spikes and crashes.

Fiber Content

One of the best things about Spanakopita is its high fiber content. In every serving, you can expect to get at least 2-3 grams of fiber, which can help promote healthy digestion, lower your risk of chronic diseases, and help you feel full and satisfied between meals.

Vitamin Content

Thanks to the spinach used to make Spanakopita, this pastry is a great source of vitamins like vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin K. These nutrients can help support healthy vision, immune function, and blood clotting, respectively. Spanakopita is also a good source of other B vitamins like folate and riboflavin, which are essential for energy production and healthy metabolism.

Mineral Content

In addition to being rich in vitamins, Spanakopita is also a great source of minerals like iron, magnesium, and calcium. Iron is important for transporting oxygen throughout the body and preventing anemia, while magnesium plays a role in bone health, muscle function, and heart health. Calcium is also essential for strong bones and teeth, as well as proper nerve and muscle function.

Serving Size

The serving size for Spanakopita can vary depending on where you buy it or how you make it. In general, though, two pieces (56 g) is a common serving size that provides a good balance of nutrients and calories. If you're making Spanakopita yourself, be sure to measure your portions carefully to ensure you're getting the right amount of nutrients per serving.