This Gözleme recipe is a delightful Turkish flatbread that combines a savory filling of spinach and vegan Feta cheese with aromatic spices. Perfect for any occasion, whether as an appetizer, main course, or snack, Gözleme is both versatile and flavorful. The unique blend of ingredients makes it a standout choice for anyone craving a delicious dish that can be enjoyed by everyone, including those following a vegan diet.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious meal ready in no time.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of spinach, vegan Feta cheese, and seasonings creates an irresistible flavor profile.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy Gözleme as an appetizer, main course, or snack – it’s perfect for any meal!
- Easy to Customize: Feel free to experiment with different fillings based on your preferences.
- Healthy Option: Packed with spinach and wholesome ingredients, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Rolling pin
- Mixing bowl
- Non-stick pan or griddle
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out the dough evenly, ensuring the Gözleme cooks uniformly.
- Mixing bowl: A must-have for combining ingredients easily without making a mess.
- Non-stick pan or griddle: Helps achieve that perfect golden-brown crust without sticking.
Ingredients
This Gözleme recipe is filled with a savory mixture of spinach, vegan Feta cheese, and aromatic seasonings. It’s a versatile and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick meal or snack.
For the Dough
- 1.5 cups warm water (355 ml, lukewarm)
- 1 tablespoon dry yeast (optional)
- 4-5 cups flour (500-625 grams, adjust as needed)
- Salt (to taste)
For the Filling
- 14 oz spinach (400 grams, finely chopped)
- 1 onion (finely diced)
- 7 oz vegan Feta cheese (200 grams, crumbled)
- 1 tablespoon red paprika flakes
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon tomato paste
- Salt if needed
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Gözleme
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine warm water and dry yeast (if using). Gradually add flour and a pinch of salt. Mix until it forms a soft dough.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
Transfer your dough to a floured surface. Knead for about 5-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in an oiled bowl and cover it with a kitchen towel. Let it rise for 30 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Filling
While the dough rises, heat some oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion until translucent. Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and mix in crumbled vegan Feta cheese, red paprika flakes, black pepper, tomato paste, and salt to taste.
Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down. Divide it into equal portions. Using a rolling pin, roll each portion into thin circles on a floured surface.
Step 5: Fill and Cook
Place some filling on one half of each rolled-out circle. Fold over to create a semi-circle shape and press edges to seal. Heat your non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat and cook each Gözleme for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Enjoy your homemade Gözleme hot with fresh parsley sprinkled on top!
How to Serve Gözleme
Gözleme is a delicious and versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether as a quick snack or a part of a larger meal, these savory flatbreads are sure to please everyone.
With Fresh Salad
- Crisp Greens: Serve your gözleme with a side of mixed greens for a refreshing contrast.
- Tomato and Cucumber Salad: A classic Mediterranean salad that adds brightness to the meal.
With Dipping Sauces
- Garlic Yogurt Sauce: A creamy dip that complements the flavors of gözleme beautifully.
- Chili Oil: Drizzle some chili oil on top for an extra kick of flavor.
As Part of a Mezze Platter
- Assorted Dips: Include hummus, baba ganoush, and tzatziki for a flavorful spread.
- Vegetable Sticks: Offer carrots, bell peppers, and celery for crunch alongside your gözleme.
How to Perfect Gözleme
To achieve the best results with your gözleme, consider the following tips that will enhance both flavor and texture.
- Use Warm Water: Using warm water helps activate the yeast (if using) for better dough rise.
- Knead Well: Kneading the dough thoroughly ensures it becomes elastic and easy to work with.
- Rest the Dough: Allowing the dough to rest makes it easier to roll out and results in flakier layers.
- Don’t Overfill: Use just enough filling to prevent tearing while cooking; too much can lead to messy gözleme.
- Cook on High Heat: Cooking on high heat gives the flatbread a nice crispy exterior while keeping it soft inside.
- Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to try different fillings like mushrooms or potatoes for varied flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Gözleme
Pairing gözleme with complementary side dishes enhances your dining experience. Here are some excellent options.
- Çoban Salata (Shepherd’s Salad): A fresh salad made with diced tomatoes, cucumbers, and parsley, perfect for balancing the richness of gözleme.
- Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickles add a delightful crunch and acidity that contrasts well with the savory flatbread.
- Roasted Eggplant Dip (Baba Ganoush): This smoky dip pairs wonderfully with gözleme, adding depth of flavor.
- Olive Tapenade: A spread made from olives and capers that brings an intense briny taste to your meal.
- Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolma): These savory bites complement the flavors of the gözleme beautifully.
- Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: A nutritious side packed with protein and flavor from herbs and spices.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Gözleme can be a rewarding experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Incorrect Flour Measurement: Using too much or too little flour can affect the dough’s texture. Always measure accurately and adjust as needed to get a smooth dough.
- Skipping the Yeast: Although optional, skipping yeast can result in a denser Gözleme. If you want a fluffier flatbread, consider adding yeast for extra rise.
- Overfilling the Dough: Adding too much filling can lead to tearing. Be generous, but not excessive. A good balance will keep your Gözleme intact while cooking.
- Not Cooking on High Heat: Cooking on low heat results in soggy Gözleme. Ensure your pan is hot enough to create a crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft.
- Neglecting Seasoning: Under-seasoning can make your Gözleme bland. Taste your filling and adjust the spices before sealing the dough for maximum flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Gözleme in an airtight container.
- It can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Make sure it’s cooled completely before storing to avoid moisture buildup.
Freezing Gözleme
- Wrap each Gözleme tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place them in a freezer bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Gözleme
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place Gözleme on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat for about 1-2 minutes, checking periodically.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook each side for about 2-3 minutes until crispy and warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is Gözleme?
Gözleme is a traditional Turkish flatbread filled with various savory ingredients, commonly including spinach and cheese. It’s known for its crispy exterior and flavorful fillings.
Can I make Vegan Gözleme?
Yes! This recipe includes vegan Feta cheese, making it suitable for vegan diets. You can also customize fillings according to your preferences.
How do I know when my Gözleme is cooked?
Your Gözleme is ready when it has a golden-brown color on both sides and feels crisp when touched. The filling should be hot but not bubbling over.
Can I freeze leftover Gözleme?
Absolutely! You can freeze leftover Gözleme by wrapping them tightly and storing them in the freezer for up to two months.
Final Thoughts
This Gözleme recipe offers an easy way to enjoy delicious Turkish cuisine at home. Its versatility allows you to customize fillings based on what you have available, making it perfect for any meal or snack time. Give it a try, and explore endless variations!

Gözleme
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Gözleme is a delightful Turkish flatbread that boasts a savory filling of spinach and vegan Feta cheese, combined with aromatic spices. This versatile dish can be enjoyed as an appetizer, main course, or snack, making it perfect for any occasion. With its quick preparation and rich flavors, Gözleme is not only satisfying but also a healthy option packed with nutritious ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a delicious meal, this recipe is sure to impress everyone, including those following a vegan lifestyle.
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups warm water
- 1 tablespoon dry yeast (optional)
- 4–5 cups flour
- Salt (to taste)
- 14 oz spinach, finely chopped
- 1 onion, finely diced
- 7 oz vegan Feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 tablespoon red paprika flakes
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon tomato paste
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine warm water and dry yeast (if using). Gradually add flour and a pinch of salt until it forms a soft dough.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in an oiled bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let rise for 30 minutes.
- While the dough rises, heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté diced onion until translucent; then add spinach and cook until wilted. Mix in crumbled vegan Feta cheese, paprika flakes, black pepper, tomato paste, and salt.
- After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide into equal portions. Roll each portion into thin circles.
- Place filling on one half of each circle, fold the other half over to seal. Cook on a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Turkish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Use warm water to activate yeast for fluffier dough. Knead well for elasticity; resting the dough helps with rolling. Experiment with different fillings like mushrooms or potatoes for variety.

