Batsaria is a hearty and flavorful Greek dish that combines a mix of greens with creamy feta cheese and aromatic herbs, all baked in a delicious batter. This casserole is perfect as an appetizer or main dish, making it a versatile addition to your meal rotation. It’s packed with nutrients and flavor, making it a hit with family and friends!
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 80 minutes
Servings: 10 to 16 servings
Yield: 1 (9×13-inch) pan
Ingredients
For the greens:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted, divided
- 2 (10 to 12-ounce) bags frozen collard greens, kale, or a mix, thawed
- 7 to 8 ounces feta cheese, crumbled, divided
- 1 bunch green onions, trimmed and thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, coarsely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, coarsely chopped
- 1/4 cup couscous
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 4 large eggs
For the batter:
- 2 cups (260g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup plus 1/4 cup water, divided
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Drizzle 2 tablespoons of the melted butter into a 9×13-inch baking pan and reserve the rest.
- Prepare the Greens: Drain the thawed greens in a colander and squeeze out the excess water. Place the greens in a large bowl.
- Make the Filling: Crumble the feta (reserve 1/2 cup for topping) and add it to the bowl with the greens. Mix in green onions, garlic, parsley, mint, dill, couscous, salt, and pepper. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and add them to the greens mixture.
- Make the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In the egg bowl, combine the 2 eggs, Greek yogurt, and olive oil. Whisk until smooth. Stir in 1 cup of water into the egg mixture, then add it to the flour mixture, creating a thick batter.
- Assemble the Dish: Scoop a rounded cup of batter into the buttered pan and spread it into a thin layer. Whisk the remaining 1/4 cup of water into the remaining batter and stir in the reserved feta.
- Layer and Bake: Sprinkle the greens mixture over the batter. Drizzle the remaining batter and melted butter over the top. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, until golden and bubbling. Let cool for 5 minutes before cutting.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm as a main dish or appetizer, alongside a fresh salad.
- Pair with tzatziki sauce for a refreshing dip.
Cooking Tips
- Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the greens for better texture.
- This dish can be prepared in advance and baked just before serving.
Nutritional Benefits
- Rich in Greens: Packed with vitamins A, C, and K from the greens.
- High in Protein: Feta and eggs provide protein and calcium.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-Friendly: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians.
- Customizable: Feel free to swap greens or herbs based on your preference.
Nutritional Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 223
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Protein: 8g
Storage
- Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a fantastic way to use frozen greens, making it a quick and nutritious meal option.
Conclusion
Batsaria is a delicious, wholesome dish that highlights the flavors of greens and herbs, enveloped in a light batter. This recipe not only satisfies but also brings the delightful tastes of Greek cuisine to your table. Perfect for gatherings, this casserole is sure to impress your guests and become a family favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use fresh greens instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh greens can be used, but they will need to be cooked down slightly before adding. - How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. - Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes! Assemble it ahead of time and bake just before serving. - What other cheeses can I use?
Ricotta or goat cheese can be good alternatives to feta. - Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving. - How do I serve this dish?
It can be served warm or at room temperature, making it great for potlucks. - What can I serve alongside this dish?
A simple Greek salad or roasted vegetables pair well. - Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes, the mild flavors are generally appealing to children. - Can I add meat to this dish?
Yes, cooked chicken or sausage can be mixed in for extra protein. - What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
Dried herbs can be used, but reduce the quantity to avoid overpowering the dish.