Description
These Spanakopita Puff Pastry Swirls are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer featuring a savory filling of spinach, feta, ricotta, and aromatic spices wrapped in flaky puff pastry. Perfectly golden and crisp on the outside with a creamy, flavorful center, these swirls are ideal for parties, snacks, or a tasty side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Filling
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Pastry and Topping
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the spinach and cook until wilted if using fresh, or heated through if using frozen. Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes.
- Mix the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach mixture with crumbled feta cheese, ricotta cheese, ground nutmeg (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Prepare the Puff Pastry: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet to smooth out any wrinkles, making it ready for filling.
- Assemble the Swirls: Spread the spinach and cheese filling evenly over the puff pastry sheet, leaving a small border around the edges. Carefully roll the pastry into a log or cylinder shape starting from one side.
- Slice and Arrange: Cut the pastry log into approximately 1-inch thick slices. Arrange these slices spaced evenly on a lightly greased baking dish or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Egg Wash and Topping: Beat the egg and brush it over the tops of the puff pastry swirls to ensure a golden and glossy finish when baked. Optionally, sprinkle sesame seeds on top for added texture and flavor.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed up and golden brown all over.
- Serve: Allow the swirls to cool slightly for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm as an appetizer, snack, or side dish.
Notes
- You can substitute frozen spinach for fresh; just be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture to prevent sogginess.
- Adding nutmeg is optional but adds a subtle warm flavor to the filling.
- Sesame seeds on top add nice crunch but can be omitted if preferred.
- Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
- Leftover swirls can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven to maintain crispness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
