These Pinwheel Spinach and Feta Bites are a delightful and savory appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella, and a touch of nutmeg wrapped in flaky puff pastry creates a delicious bite-sized treat that’s sure to impress your guests.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 box puff pastry dough
- 1 lb frozen spinach (1 box)
- 1/2 pack cream cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1 egg yolk
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
Prepare the Filling
- Cook the Spinach: Thaw the frozen spinach and squeeze out any excess water. Set aside.
- Sauté the Shallot and Garlic: In a pan, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped shallot and minced garlic. Sauté until soft and fragrant.
- Mix the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach, sautéed shallot and garlic, cream cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Prepare the Pastry
- Roll Out the Puff Pastry: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the puff pastry dough on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle.
- Spread the Filling: Evenly spread the spinach and cheese mixture over the puff pastry dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Roll and Slice: Carefully roll up the dough, starting from one of the long sides, to form a log. Slice the log into 1-inch thick pinwheels.
Bake
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the pinwheels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Egg Wash: In a small bowl, beat the egg yolk with a splash of water. Brush the tops of the pinwheels with the egg wash to help them turn golden brown in the oven.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the pinwheels are puffed and golden brown.
Serve
- Cool and Serve: Allow the pinwheels to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
- Appetizer: Serve these pinwheels as an elegant appetizer at your next gathering.
- Finger Food: Perfect for parties and casual get-togethers.
- Snack: Enjoy as a savory snack any time of day.
Cooking Tips
- Drain Spinach Well: Ensure the spinach is well-drained to prevent the filling from becoming too watery.
- Even Slices: Use a sharp knife to slice the rolled dough into even pinwheels for uniform baking.
- Crispy Pastry: For extra crispy pastry, bake the pinwheels on the middle rack of your oven.
Nutritional Benefits
- Spinach: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium.
- Cheese: Provides protein and calcium, adding to the nutritional value of the bites.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free puff pastry if needed.
- Low-Carb Option: Substitute with low-carb pastry alternatives.
Storage
- Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe easy to follow.
- Delicious and Savory: The combination of creamy cheese and spinach is always a crowd-pleaser.
- Versatile: Perfect for various occasions, from casual gatherings to elegant parties.
Conclusion
These Pinwheel Spinach and Feta Bites are a perfect addition to any menu. They are easy to make, delicious, and sure to impress your guests. Enjoy the delightful combination of spinach, cheese, and flaky pastry in every bite. Bon appétit!