Save Flaky puff pastry spirals filled with creamy spinach and tangy feta cheese, perfect as an appetizer or snack.
This recipe has become a favorite for gatherings and quick bites.
Ingredients
- Dough: 1 sheet (about 250 g) puff pastry, thawed if frozen
- Filling: 150 g fresh spinach, washed and chopped (or 100 g frozen spinach, thawed and well-drained)
- Filling: 120 g feta cheese, crumbled
- Filling: 50 g cream cheese, softened
- Filling: 1 small garlic clove, minced
- Filling: 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- Filling: 1 egg, beaten (for binding and brushing)
- Filling: ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- Filling: ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- Filling: 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add spinach and sauté until wilted (2–3 minutes for fresh, 1 minute for thawed frozen). Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Step 3:
- In a bowl, mix sautéed spinach, feta cheese, cream cheese, dill, black pepper, nutmeg (if using), and half of the beaten egg.
- Step 4:
- Unroll the puff pastry sheet onto a lightly floured surface. Spread the spinach-feta mixture evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1 cm border along one long edge.
- Step 5:
- Roll up the pastry tightly from the opposite long edge, sealing the seam with a little water.
- Step 6:
- Slice the roll into 16 even pieces. Place spirals, cut side up, onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 7:
- Brush the tops with the remaining beaten egg.
- Step 8:
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until golden and puffed.
- Step 9:
- Allow to cool slightly before serving warm or at room temperature.
Save This recipe often brings family together for casual get-togethers and celebrations.
Notes
For extra crunch, sprinkle sesame seeds or nigella seeds on top before baking. Serve with a yogurt-herb dip for added freshness.
Required Tools
Skillet, mixing bowl, baking sheet, parchment paper, knife, pastry brush
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), eggs, and milk (dairy/feta/cream cheese). Double-check pastry ingredients if concerned about allergens.
Save These pinwheels make an inviting and delicious appetizer that’s sure to impress your guests.
Common Questions
- → Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen spinach can be used. Make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
- → How do I prevent the puff pastry from getting soggy?
Ensure the spinach mixture is cool and well-drained before spreading on the pastry. A lightly floured surface also helps maintain pastry crispness.
- → What alternatives exist for spinach in the filling?
Swiss chard or baby kale can be substituted to provide a similar texture and flavor profile.
- → Can the pinwheels be frozen before baking?
Yes, assemble and freeze unbaked pinwheels on a tray, then transfer to a sealed container. Bake straight from frozen, adding about 5 minutes to the baking time.
- → What spices enhance the flavor of these spirals?
A small pinch of ground nutmeg and freshly cracked black pepper complement the spinach and cheese filling nicely.
- → What tools are needed for preparation?
A skillet for sautéing, mixing bowl, baking sheet lined with parchment, knife for slicing, and pastry brush for egg wash are essential.