These Pinwheel Spinach & Feta Bites are a delicious and elegant appetizer, perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a tasty snack. The combination of spinach and feta cheese wrapped in flaky puff pastry creates a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. These bites are easy to make, yet they look impressive, making them a go-to recipe for any occasion.
Preparation Time:
- Active Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Baking Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed (about 250g)
- 150g fresh spinach (or 100g frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 100g feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 garlic clove, minced (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (if using fresh spinach)
Directions:
- Prepare the Spinach Filling:
- For Fresh Spinach: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic (if using) and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat, let it cool slightly, and then squeeze out any excess moisture.
- For Frozen Spinach: Thaw and drain the spinach thoroughly, squeezing out as much moisture as possible.
- Combine the Filling:
- In a bowl, mix the cooked spinach with crumbled feta cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ensure the mixture is well combined.
- Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle, about 10×12 inches (25×30 cm).
- Assemble the Pinwheels:
- Spread the spinach and feta mixture evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Starting from one of the longer sides, carefully roll up the pastry into a tight log.
- Using a sharp knife, slice the roll into 1/2-inch (1.25 cm) thick pinwheels.
- Bake:
- Place the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet, cut side up, leaving a little space between each one.
- Brush the tops of the pinwheels with the beaten egg to give them a golden finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let the pinwheels cool slightly before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve these pinwheels as an appetizer, snack, or as part of a brunch spread.
- Pair with a dipping sauce like tzatziki, marinara, or a simple yogurt dip.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the spinach is well-drained to prevent the pastry from becoming soggy.
- Use pre-rolled puff pastry to save time and make the process even easier.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Spinach: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and a good source of iron and fiber.
- Feta Cheese: Provides calcium and adds a salty, tangy flavor to the dish.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free puff pastry.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 150 kcal
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 250mg
Storage:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- These pinwheels are quick and easy to make, yet they look impressive and taste delicious.
- The combination of flaky puff pastry with the savory spinach and feta filling is irresistible.
- They are versatile and can be served as an appetizer, snack, or even a light meal.
Conclusion: Pinwheel Spinach & Feta Bites are a delightful and easy-to-make appetizer that’s sure to impress your guests. With their flaky, golden pastry and savory filling, they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a tasty snack, or simply want to enjoy a delicious treat, these pinwheels are a fantastic choice. Try them out and enjoy the delicious combination of spinach, feta, and puff pastry!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use other types of cheese?
- Yes, you can substitute feta with goat cheese, ricotta, or even grated mozzarella.
- Can I prepare these pinwheels in advance?
- Yes, you can assemble the pinwheels, refrigerate them, and then bake them fresh when needed.
- Can I use frozen puff pastry?
- Absolutely. Just make sure to thaw it according to the package instructions before using.
- Can I add other ingredients to the filling?
- Yes, you can add ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or herbs for extra flavor.
- Can I make this recipe vegan?
- Yes, use a vegan puff pastry and replace the feta with a vegan cheese alternative.
- How can I prevent the puff pastry from becoming soggy?
- Ensure the spinach is well-drained and avoid overfilling the pastry.
- What can I serve with these pinwheels?
- They pair well with a variety of dips such as tzatziki, marinara, or hummus.
- Can I freeze these pinwheels?
- Yes, you can freeze them before or after baking. If freezing before baking, bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- How do I reheat leftover pinwheels?
- Reheat them in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
- What can I do with leftover filling?
- Use it as a filling for omelets, in sandwiches, or mix it with pasta for a quick meal.