When you want a recipe that’s hearty, flavorful, and absolutely unforgettable, these spinach-stuffed layered bread rolls will be your new go-to. They’re golden and crisp on the outside, tender and flaky inside, and filled with a savory spinach and onion mixture that’s seasoned just right. Think of them as a cross between stuffed flatbread and layered pastry, but baked to perfection in your own kitchen. Whether you enjoy them as a snack, light dinner, or side dish, they are guaranteed to impress both family and guests. The combination of layered dough, buttery richness, and the earthiness of spinach makes them a versatile and comforting recipe that works year-round.

Full Recipe

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 1 tsp (1 g) instant yeast

• 2 cups (400 ml) warm water

• 6 cups (≈650 g) pastry flour, plus extra for dusting

• 1½ tsp (7 g) salt

For Layering:

• 60 g unsalted butter, melted

• ½ cup (100 ml) vegetable oil

For the Spinach Filling:

• 500 g fresh spinach

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 large onion, grated

• 1 tsp chili pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

For Finishing & Baking:

• Additional oil for brushing

• Optional sesame seeds or nigella seeds for topping

Cooking Directions

1. Activate & Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water, then stir in the salt. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft, slightly sticky dough comes together.

2. Knead & Rest: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover with a damp cloth and let rest for 10 minutes.

3. Portion & Laminate: Divide the dough into four equal pieces. Roll each piece into a thin circle about the size of a dinner plate. Mix the melted butter and oil together, then brush one circle with the mixture before stacking another on top. Repeat until all four layers are stacked, brushing each layer generously.

4. Cut & Rest Stacks: Cut the stack vertically into four strips. Cover and let the strips rest for 25–30 minutes to allow the dough to proof and relax.

5. Prepare the Spinach Filling: Wash and drain the spinach, sprinkle with salt, and massage gently to remove excess water. Chop finely and mix with grated onion and chili flakes.

6. Shape & Fill Rolls: Take one laminated strip, roll it out slightly, and brush with oil. Fold or pleat it as shown in traditional pastry techniques, creating a pocket. Add a spoonful of spinach mixture, fold again, and repeat until filled. Cut each strip into four rolls.

7. Brush & Bake: Preheat oven to 190 °C (375 °F). Place rolls on a parchment-lined tray, brush with oil, and sprinkle with sesame or nigella seeds if desired. Bake 45–50 minutes until golden brown.

8. Serve: Let the rolls cool slightly before serving warm, ideally with a yogurt dip or a crisp salad.

Nutrients

• Calories: ~270 per roll (depending on size)

• Protein: 7 g

• Fat: 13 g

• Carbohydrates: 31 g

• Fiber: 3 g

• Calcium: from spinach and sesame seeds

• Iron: rich from spinach and flour

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe because it takes simple ingredients and transforms them into something extraordinary. The layering technique makes the bread rolls buttery and flaky, almost like a pastry, while the spinach filling gives them a satisfying, earthy flavor. They’re perfect for sharing, easy to reheat, and versatile enough to serve as a main or a side. It’s also a fantastic way to sneak in greens for picky eaters without sacrificing taste.

The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish

This recipe takes inspiration from traditional Middle Eastern and Mediterranean pastries where layering dough with oil or butter is common. Think of it as a homemade version of börek or layered flatbreads, but instead of phyllo, you create your own soft dough and laminate it for layers. The filling is simple yet reminiscent of classic spinach pies served across Turkey, Greece, and the Balkans. It’s a dish born from humble pantry staples yet celebrated in cuisines around the world.

Ingredient Spotlight

The dough is simple—flour, yeast, water, and salt—but layering with butter and oil gives it a unique flaky structure. Spinach is the star of the filling, providing nutrients and a slightly bitter edge that balances the richness of the dough. Onion adds natural sweetness and aroma, while chili flakes bring a gentle kick. A final sprinkle of sesame or nigella seeds gives not only texture but also a nutty aroma that ties the whole dish together.

Storage and Reheating Tips

These rolls store well, making them perfect for meal prep or make-ahead entertaining. Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours or refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a 180 °C (350 °F) oven for 10–12 minutes to restore crispness. Freezing works beautifully too—just freeze baked rolls once cooled, then reheat directly from frozen at 180 °C (350 °F) for about 20 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it makes them soggy.

Common Variations to Try

This recipe is endlessly adaptable. You can swap spinach for Swiss chard, kale, or collard greens if those are more accessible. Cheese lovers may want to add crumbled feta or mozzarella to the filling for extra richness. For a heartier version, try including ground beef, chicken, or lamb along with the spinach. Spice enthusiasts can adjust the chili flakes or add paprika, cumin, or even curry powder to change the flavor profile. Vegans can replace butter with olive oil and omit cheese for a dairy-free variation.

Pairing Recommendations

These rolls pair beautifully with a variety of sides. A simple garlic-yogurt dip or tzatziki complements the richness of the bread. They also work well alongside soups like lentil, tomato, or chicken broth. For a complete meal, serve with a crisp Mediterranean salad loaded with cucumbers, olives, and feta. If you want to elevate them further, pair with roasted meats, grilled fish, or even a hearty stew.

Health Benefits

Spinach is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, along with iron, calcium, and fiber, making this dish as nutritious as it is delicious. The onions bring antioxidants and immune-boosting properties, while chili flakes add metabolism-boosting capsaicin. Using a mix of oil and butter provides richness but allows flexibility if you want to lighten the recipe. Since the rolls are baked, not fried, they’re a healthier alternative to many stuffed pastry options.

Conclusion

These spinach-stuffed layered bread rolls are the perfect marriage of flavor, texture, and tradition. They’re flaky yet hearty, savory yet refreshing, and can fit just about any occasion—from casual family dinners to special gatherings. Whether you serve them hot out of the oven or reheat them the next day, they’ll always be crowd-pleasers. With their roots in Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and their versatility in the kitchen, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your home cooking. Once you try it, you’ll understand why these rolls are worth every minute of effort.