A traditional Turkish flatbread stuffed with a savory filling of sautéed spinach, creamy feta, and herbs, cooked until golden and crisp—perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Spinach and Feta Gözleme is a beloved Turkish street food known for its simplicity, versatility, and satisfying flavor. The crisp, golden flatbread encloses a warm and savory filling of spinach, onion, and tangy feta cheese. Easy to prepare at home with pantry staples, this dish offers a delicious vegetarian option that’s perfect any time of day. Whether served with yogurt, lemon, or a fresh salad, it makes for a delightful and wholesome meal.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Dough:
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp olive oil
1 cup warm water (as needed to form a soft dough)

For the Filling:
2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

directions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add olive oil and gradually pour in warm water, kneading until a soft, smooth dough forms. Cover with a clean towel and let it rest for 30 minutes.
While the dough rests, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Once cooled, mix in the crumbled feta cheese.
Divide the rested dough into 6 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a thin rectangle or oval on a floured surface.
Spoon the spinach-feta mixture onto half of each rolled-out dough, then fold the other half over the filling. Press the edges firmly to seal.
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook each gözleme for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crisp.
Remove from heat, slice, and serve warm with yogurt or a squeeze of lemon if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6 gözleme
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Rest Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

Add Cheese Blend: Mix feta with shredded mozzarella or kasseri for a creamier texture.
Include Herbs: Add fresh dill, mint, or parsley to enhance the flavor of the filling.
Meaty Option: Add cooked ground beef or sucuk (Turkish sausage) for a heartier version.
Whole Wheat Dough: Substitute part or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
Vegan Version: Use plant-based feta and skip the egg if adding it to the dough.

storage/reheating

Store leftover gözleme in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place on a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side until warmed through and crisp. Avoid microwaving, as it may soften the texture. You can also freeze gözleme individually wrapped and reheat from frozen in a skillet.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, thaw and squeeze out excess water before using. Adjust quantity as needed.

Can the dough be made ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature before rolling.

What type of feta works best?

Use a firm, brined feta for the best flavor and texture.

Can I bake the gözleme instead of pan-frying?

Gözleme is traditionally pan-cooked, but it can be baked at 400°F (200°C) until golden, though it may not be as crisp.

Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Yes, gözleme can be frozen cooked or uncooked. Wrap tightly and reheat in a skillet without thawing.

Can I add eggs to the filling?

Yes, you can mix in a lightly beaten egg with the spinach for extra richness, though it’s optional.

What should I serve with gözleme?

Plain yogurt, lemon wedges, pickles, or a fresh salad complement this dish well.

Can I use puff pastry instead of making dough?

While not traditional, puff pastry can be used for a different texture—bake instead of pan-frying.

Is gözleme gluten-free?

Not unless made with gluten-free flour. Adjust dough ingredients accordingly for a gluten-free version.

How do I prevent the dough from sticking?

Use enough flour on your surface and rolling pin, and don’t roll the dough too thin.

Conclusion

Spinach and Feta Gözleme is a flavorful and nourishing dish that’s surprisingly simple to prepare. With a crisp, golden crust and a savory filling, it captures the essence of Turkish street food in a homemade form. Whether enjoyed hot off the griddle or reheated later, this versatile flatbread is perfect for any time of day and sure to satisfy.