Crispy on the outside and irresistibly soft on the inside, Spinach and Cheese Gözleme is a traditional Turkish flatbread filled with a hearty mixture of spinach, cheeses, and herbs. Cooked on a skillet until golden brown, this handheld dish is perfect as a snack, lunch, or light dinner, and is typically served with lemon wedges for a refreshing finish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Spinach and Cheese Gözleme is the perfect balance of simple preparation and satisfying flavor. The dough is easy to work with and doesn’t require yeast, while the filling combines fresh spinach and cheeses with herbs for a delicious savory profile. It’s a versatile, family-friendly meal that you can customize with your favorite ingredients, and it requires no oven—just a pan and a bit of olive oil.

ingredients

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

For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup warm water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Filling:

• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
• 2 green onions, finely sliced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Olive oil, for cooking

To Serve:

• Lemon wedges
• Extra chopped parsley (optional)

directions

1. In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Gradually add the warm water and olive oil, stirring to form a dough.
2. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover the bowl and let the dough rest for 30 minutes.
3. While the dough rests, prepare the filling by combining chopped spinach, crumbled feta, shredded mozzarella, green onions, parsley, and black pepper in a bowl.
4. Divide the rested dough into 4 equal pieces. On a floured surface, roll each piece into a thin oval or rectangle.
5. Place a portion of the filling on one half of the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Fold the dough over to enclose the filling and press the edges to seal.
6. Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly brush with olive oil.
7. Cook each gözleme for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crisp.
8. Remove from the pan, slice into triangles, and serve warm with lemon wedges and optional parsley.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 gözleme, serving 4 people.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Resting time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: Add cooked ground lamb, minced chicken, or beef for a meatier version.
• Spicy Option: Mix in chili flakes or diced fresh chilies with the filling.
• Vegan Version: Use plant-based feta and mozzarella, and ensure the dough is made with olive oil only.
• Herbaceous Twist: Add mint, dill, or coriander for a more aromatic profile.
• Sweet Gözleme: Skip the savory filling and use a mixture of tahini and sugar or sweetened ricotta and raisins.

storage/reheating

Store any leftover gözleme wrapped in foil or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm on a skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side until heated through. You can also reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving to maintain the crispy texture.

FAQs

What is gözleme?

Gözleme is a traditional Turkish stuffed flatbread, typically pan-cooked and filled with ingredients like cheese, spinach, or minced meat.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature before rolling out.

Is it possible to bake gözleme instead of pan-cooking?

While traditional gözleme is cooked on a griddle or skillet, you can bake it in a hot oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes, flipping once midway.

Can I freeze gözleme?

Yes, wrap uncooked or cooked gözleme in plastic wrap and freeze. Thaw before cooking or reheating.

What cheeses work best in this recipe?

Feta and mozzarella are commonly used, but you can also try kashkaval, halloumi, or a Turkish white cheese like beyaz peynir.

Do I need to cook the spinach before adding it?

No, fresh chopped spinach works best raw, as it softens during cooking and retains flavor and nutrients.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, but thaw and squeeze out all excess moisture before mixing with the other filling ingredients.

What type of flour should I use?

All-purpose flour works perfectly. You can also try using whole wheat flour for a slightly nuttier taste.

Is gözleme gluten-free?

Traditional gözleme is not gluten-free due to wheat flour. You can try using a gluten-free all-purpose blend, though texture may vary.

What are good side dishes with gözleme?

Serve with a fresh cucumber and tomato salad, yogurt dip, or a small bowl of olives for a traditional touch.

Conclusion

Spinach and Cheese Gözleme is a delightful taste of Turkish street food that’s simple to make at home. With its crisp exterior and rich, cheesy filling, it’s sure to become a favorite for both everyday meals and special occasions. Easy to adapt and quick to cook, this flatbread recipe brings comforting flavor and cultural charm to your table with every bite.

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