Spanakopita Puff Pastry Swirls

Looking for a dish that’s flaky, savory, and just downright delicious? Spanakopita Puff Pastry Swirls are here to steal the show. These little spirals of golden, flaky puff pastry are filled with a creamy, flavorful spinach and feta mixture that’s as irresistible as it sounds. Imagine biting into a crispy, buttery layer of pastry, only to reveal a warm, savory filling that’s packed with fresh herbs and tangy cheese. Trust me, these bite-sized treats are perfect for everything from appetizer spreads to cozy dinners or even as a snack. They’re so delicious that you might find yourself making them again and again. Ready to give it a try? You’re in for a treat!

Why You’ll Love Spanakopita Puff Pastry Swirls

This dish isn’t just tasty—it’s an experience. Here’s why it’s going to become your new favorite:

• Flaky Perfection: The puff pastry crisps up beautifully in the oven, creating layers of light, airy goodness that melt in your mouth.
• Savory and Flavorful: The spinach and feta mixture is rich and packed with flavor, balanced with fresh herbs like dill and parsley.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for an easy weeknight dinner, or craving a snack, these swirls fit any mood or occasion.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare them ahead of time and bake them when you’re ready to serve, making them perfect for busy days or entertaining guests.
• Customizable: While spinach and feta is classic, feel free to get creative! Add in some sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or even a sprinkle of pine nuts for extra texture and flavor.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these golden, flaky delights:

• Puff Pastry: The star of the show. You’ll want to use a high-quality puff pastry for that crisp, buttery texture.
• Spinach: Fresh or frozen spinach works perfectly here. If you’re using frozen, just be sure to squeeze out any excess moisture before using.
• Feta Cheese: This crumbly, tangy cheese adds richness and flavor to the filling.
• Cream Cheese: Adds creaminess to the filling, binding everything together and giving it that irresistible smooth texture.
• Garlic: A little garlic goes a long way in enhancing the savory flavors of the filling.
• Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley and dill bring a burst of freshness and vibrant flavor.
• Egg: Used to bind the filling and brush the top of the swirls for a golden finish.
• Olive Oil: A little drizzle of olive oil enhances the richness of the filling and gives the pastry a gorgeous golden color.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s get these savory swirls on your table! Here’s how you make them:

Step 1: Prepare the Spinach Filling

If using fresh spinach, sauté it in a pan until wilted, then drain off any excess liquid. If using frozen spinach, thaw it and press out any moisture. Chop the spinach finely. In a bowl, combine the spinach, feta cheese, cream cheese, garlic, parsley, dill, and an egg. Mix everything together until well-combined and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Roll Out the Puff Pastry

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle. Aim for about 1/8-inch thickness. Once it’s rolled out, spread the spinach mixture evenly over the entire sheet of puff pastry.

Step 3: Create the Swirls

Starting at one edge, carefully roll the puff pastry into a tight log. Once rolled, slice it into 1-inch wide pieces. You should get about 12-15 swirls, depending on how thick you cut them.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Arrange the swirls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with a little beaten egg for a golden, shiny finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and puffed up, and the filling is hot.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once out of the oven, let the swirls cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm, either on their own or with a dipping sauce like tzatziki for a Mediterranean touch!

Nutrition Facts

Here’s an approximate breakdown for each serving (based on 12 servings):

• Calories: 160
• Total Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 35mg
• Sodium: 350mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Calcium: 120mg
• Iron: 2mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve Spanakopita Puff Pastry Swirls

These swirls are versatile and pair wonderfully with a variety of sides and accompaniments:

• Tzatziki Sauce: A cool and tangy yogurt-based sauce is a perfect dip for these warm, savory swirls.
• Greek Salad: Pair these with a simple Greek salad for a light, fresh complement to the rich swirls.
• Hummus: Serve with a side of hummus for a creamy dip that enhances the Mediterranean flavors.
• Olives: A small bowl of mixed olives adds a salty, briny touch that’s perfect for snacking alongside these swirls.

Additional Tips

• Use Phyllo Dough: If you want a more traditional spanakopita texture, you can swap puff pastry for phyllo dough, though it may require a little more care when handling.
• Freezer-Friendly: These puff pastry swirls freeze beautifully. After assembling, place them on a baking sheet and freeze for an hour. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, just pop them straight from the freezer into the oven (you may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the bake time).
• Customize the Filling: Feel free to add extras like olives, pine nuts, or even a bit of lemon zest for extra flavor.
• Make Mini Versions: If you’re serving them as appetizers, you can slice the puff pastry into smaller pieces and make bite-sized versions of these swirls.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use store-bought spinach?
A1: Yes, frozen spinach works just fine! Just be sure to thaw and squeeze out any excess moisture before using.

Q2: Can I prepare these ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! You can assemble the swirls, refrigerate them for up to a day, and bake them when you’re ready to serve.

Q3: Can I make these without feta?
A3: Yes, you can substitute the feta with ricotta, goat cheese, or a dairy-free cheese for a different flavor.

Q4: How can I make these spicier?
A4: You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the spinach mixture for a little kick.

Q5: Can I use phyllo dough instead of puff pastry?
A5: Yes, phyllo dough will give you a more traditional spanakopita texture, but it may require a bit more care when rolling. Just brush the layers with butter to keep them crisp.

Q6: Can I freeze these before baking?
A6: Yes! Assemble the swirls, freeze them on a baking sheet, and then store them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, no need to thaw, just add extra time to the baking process.

Q7: Can I add other veggies to the filling?
A7: Definitely! Chopped artichokes, mushrooms, or even a bit of sun-dried tomatoes would work wonderfully in this filling.

Q8: How do I store leftovers?
A8: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to keep the puff pastry crispy.

Q9: Can I make a large batch for a party?
A9: Yes! These swirls are perfect for parties, and you can easily double the recipe to make more.

Q10: Can I add meat to the filling?
A10: Absolutely! Ground lamb or beef would complement the spinach and feta filling beautifully, adding a savory twist to the dish.

Conclusion

Spanakopita Puff Pastry Swirls are a delightful way to bring Mediterranean flavors into your kitchen with minimal effort. They’re flaky, savory, and completely customizable, making them a perfect snack, appetizer, or even a light main dish. Whether you’re preparing them for a special occasion or just because you deserve something delicious, these little spirals are sure to impress. Enjoy!

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