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 (½ cup) plain breadcrumbs (or fine semolina)
30g (1 cup) fresh dill, finely chopped
15g (½ cup) fresh parsley, finely chopped
10g (⅓ cup) fresh mint, finely chopped (optional but traditional)
½ 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 (½-¾ 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
Sauté 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 180-190°C (350-375°F) . 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 .