04/08/2026
Kolokithopita (Greek Zucchini & Feta Pie)
Kolokithopita is a beloved Greek savory pie that celebrates the bounty of summer vegetables . The name literally means "zucchini pie," and it's a perfect example of the Greek tradition of wrapping fresh, seasonal ingredients in layers of crispy, golden phyllo dough . This rustic pie features a luscious filling of tender zucchini, creamy feta cheese, fresh herbs, and eggs, all encased in a buttery, flaky crust that shatters with every bite .
Ingredients
For the Zucchini Filling:
1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) zucchini (about 5-6 medium), grated
2 teaspoons fine salt (for drawing out moisture)
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
4 scallions, thinly sliced
4-6 large eggs
250-300g (9-10 oz) feta cheese, crumbled
60g (ยฝ cup) plain breadcrumbs (or fine semolina)
30g (1 cup) fresh dill, finely chopped
15g (ยฝ cup) fresh parsley, finely chopped
10g (โ
cup) fresh mint, finely chopped (optional but traditional)
ยฝ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Pinch of freshly grated nutmeg (optional)
For the Phyllo Layers:
450g (1 lb) phyllo dough, thawed if frozen
120-180ml (ยฝ-ยพ cup) extra virgin olive oil (or melted butter, for brushing)
1 tablespoon sesame seeds, for sprinkling (optional)
Instructions
Part 1: Prepare the Zucchini (The Most Important Step!)
Grate the zucchini: Using a box grater or food processor with a grating attachment, grate the zucchini into a large bowl .
Salt and drain: Sprinkle the grated zucchini with the 2 teaspoons of salt and toss well to distribute. Transfer to a large colander set over a bowl or in the sink . Let it drain for at least 1 hour (or up to 2 hours) . This crucial step draws out excess moisture .
Squeeze out every drop: After draining, take handfuls of the grated zucchini and squeeze firmly over the sink to remove as much liquid as possible. For best results, wrap the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and twist tightly to extract the remaining water . The zucchini should feel noticeably dry and light . This is the secret to a crisp, non-soggy pie .
Part 2: Prepare the Filling
Sautรฉ the aromatics: In a skillet, heat the 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat . Add the chopped onion and cook for 5-7 minutes until soft and translucent . Add the sliced scallions and cook for another minute . Remove from heat and let cool slightly .
Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the squeezed zucchini, the cooled onion mixture, crumbled feta, eggs, breadcrumbs, fresh herbs, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using) .
Mix thoroughly: Using a spatula or your hands, mix until everything is well combined and the eggs are fully incorporated . The filling should be moist but not watery . If you see excess liquid, squeeze the zucchini again next time, or add another tablespoon of breadcrumbs.
Part 3: Prepare the Phyllo and Assemble
Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 180-190ยฐC (350-375ยฐF) . Generously brush a 9x13 inch rectangular pan or an 11-inch round pan with olive oil .
Prepare phyllo station: Unroll the phyllo dough and place it on a clean work surface. Immediately cover it with a lightly damp (not wet) kitchen towel. Phyllo dries out within minutes when exposed to air and becomes brittle .
Layer the bottom: Place one sheet of phyllo in the prepared pan, allowing the excess to hang over the edges . Brush it lightly but thoroughly with olive oil . Repeat with half of your phyllo sheets (about 7-8 sheets, depending on your pan and phyllo thickness), brushing each layer with oil . For a round pan, arrange the sheets at slightly different angles so the overhang covers all sides .
Add the filling: Spread the zucchini filling evenly over the bottom phyllo layers .
Layer the top: Cover the filling with the remaining phyllo sheets, one at a time, brushing each layer with olive oil as before .
Seal and finish: Gently fold the overhanging phyllo edges over the top to encase the filling . Brush the very top generously with olive oil . Sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired .
Score the top (important!): Using a sharp knife, gently score the top few layers of phyllo into serving-sized squares or wedges . This allows steam to escape during baking and ensures clean cuts later .
Part 4: Bake and Rest
Bake: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, until the phyllo is a deep golden brown and crisp all over . If the top is browning too quickly, you can loosely cover it with foil for the last 10-15 minutes.
Rest (essential!): Remove from the oven and let the kolokithopita rest for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing . This crucial step allows the filling to set, making for clean, beautiful slices .
Part 5: Serve
Slice and serve: Cut along the score marks and serve warm, at room temperature, or even cold kolokithopita is delicious at any temperature .
Accompaniments: Serve with a Greek salad (horiatiki), a dollop of tzatziki, or simply on its own with a glass of cold Greek w**e .