If you’re searching for a delightful appetizer that combines flaky, buttery pastry with a savory, vibrant filling, then you will absolutely love this Spinach & Feta Pastry Rolls Recipe. These rolls are a perfect marriage of fresh spinach, tangy feta, and aromatic herbs wrapped in golden, crisp puff pastry. Each bite offers a satisfying texture contrast and flavors that feel both homey and luxurious, making them a go-to dish for gatherings, snacks, or a light meal. It’s one of those recipes that’s easy to make but impresses with every flaky mouthful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Spinach & Feta Pastry Rolls Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a key role in flavor and texture. From the tender spinach and creamy feta to the crisp puff pastry, every component is essential to create that irresistible taste and golden appearance.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and sweetness while sautéing the onions and garlic.
- Small onion (finely chopped): Provides a gentle sweetness and base flavor.
- Garlic cloves (minced): Brings aromatic warmth and depth.
- Fresh spinach (chopped): Offers a vibrant green color and fresh, earthy note.
- Salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the filling.
- Black pepper: Adds a touch of subtle heat and complexity.
- Nutmeg: A little sprinkle works wonders to elevate the spinach filling with warmth.
- Feta cheese (crumbled): Delivers the signature tangy creaminess that complements the spinach beautifully.
- Parmesan cheese (grated): Contributes a sharp, nutty flavor and helps bind the filling.
- Large egg (beaten): Binds the filling ingredients together perfectly.
- Fresh dill (chopped, optional): Adds a fresh herbaceous note that brightens the filling.
- Lemon juice: Injects a zesty brightness to balance the richness.
- Frozen puff pastry sheets (thawed): Creates the flaky, airy exterior that defines these rolls.
- Egg (for egg wash): Gives the pastry a beautiful golden sheen and crisp texture.
How to Make Spinach & Feta Pastry Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by heating olive oil over medium heat. Gently sauté the finely chopped onion until it becomes soft and fragrant, which takes about 3 to 4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute to release its aroma without burning it. Next, toss in the chopped spinach and cook just until it wilts down, preserving its bright green color. Remove the skillet from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly before transferring it to a mixing bowl. Stir in the salt, black pepper, nutmeg, crumbled feta, grated Parmesan, beaten egg, chopped dill if you’re using it, and the zingy lemon juice. This filling packs a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and fresh flavors.
Step 2: Roll and Fill the Pastry
Lightly flour your surface and gently roll out each puff pastry sheet to make it a little thinner and easier to work with. Cut each sheet in half lengthwise, creating four rectangles total. Evenly spoon the spinach and feta mixture along the long edge of each rectangle, then carefully roll the pastry over the filling, creating tight logs. This creates those lovely spiraled fillings that you’ll see when you slice the rolls after baking. Be sure to place your rolls seam-side down on the parchment-lined baking sheet to seal the edges.
Step 3: Egg Wash and Bake
Brush each roll generously with beaten egg to give them that irresistible golden shine once baked. If you want to add a bit of flair, lightly score the tops with a sharp knife — just enough to create pretty decorative lines without cutting all the way through. Pop your tray into the oven preheated to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the rolls puff up beautifully and become golden brown. Let them cool just slightly before slicing; this way, the filling sets perfectly but they are still deliciously warm.
How to Serve Spinach & Feta Pastry Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Spinach & Feta Pastry Rolls Recipe, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or extra dill on top for a fresh, green burst that’s as eye-catching as it is flavorful. A light drizzle of good quality olive oil or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt just before serving also adds a subtle finishing touch. If you like a little kick, a dusting of crushed red pepper flakes goes wonderfully with the creamy feta.
Side Dishes
These pastry rolls shine as a stand-alone snack but pair beautifully with crisp salads like a tangy Greek salad, or a cooling cucumber and yogurt dip. They also complement Mediterranean soups perfectly, making for a light lunch or a shareable appetizer platter that your guests will adore.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or special occasions, slice the rolls into bite-sized pinwheels for easy finger food. Arrange them on a pretty platter with colorful herbs and lemon wedges for zest and vibrancy. You can also serve the rolls alongside small bowls of tzatziki or tzaziki-style yogurt dip to add a creamy, refreshing dimension to the dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover spinach and feta pastry rolls store really well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep them at room temperature or gently reheat to enjoy their flaky texture and flavorful filling without any fuss.
Freezing
If you want to prepare these ahead for busy days or planned gatherings, freeze the baked rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a sealed freezer bag. They’ll keep perfectly for up to 2 months and are a fantastic make-ahead treat for a quick snack anytime.
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-from-the-oven crispiness, reheat the rolls in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 to 15 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to retain the delicate flakiness of the puff pastry.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen chopped spinach works wonderfully as a substitute. Just be sure to thaw it fully and squeeze out as much moisture as possible to avoid soggy pastry.
Is it necessary to use both feta and Parmesan cheeses?
While feta brings the tangy creaminess, Parmesan adds a nutty depth and helps bind the filling. Using both creates a more complex flavor, but you can tweak it depending on what you have on hand.
Can I make these rolls vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, swap out the cheeses for plant-based versions, use a flax or chia egg replacement, and choose a vegan puff pastry. The flavor profile will be different but still delicious!
What’s the best way to serve these for a party?
Slice the pastry rolls into smaller, bite-sized pieces and arrange them attractively on a platter with dips like tzatziki or hummus for easy sharing at any gathering.
Can these rolls be made gluten-free?
Yes, by using gluten-free puff pastry, you can enjoy a gluten-free version of this recipe but keep in mind the texture might vary slightly from traditional puff pastry.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely hope you give this Spinach & Feta Pastry Rolls Recipe a try because it’s one of those comforting yet elegant dishes that truly brightens up any table. The combination of buttery pastry and savory, fresh filling is a classic for a reason, and once you make them, I promise they’ll become a favorite in your recipe collection too. Enjoy sharing these warm, flaky delights with your friends and family!
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Spinach & Feta Pastry Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 rolls
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Spinach & Feta Pastry Rolls are a delicious Mediterranean-inspired appetizer featuring a savory filling of fresh spinach, feta, Parmesan, and herbs wrapped in flaky puff pastry. Perfectly baked to golden perfection, these vegetarian finger foods make an excellent snack or party treat that can be served warm or at room temperature.
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 10 oz fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 7 oz feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Pastry & Finishing
- 2 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, for egg wash
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Then add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release the aroma.
- Cook Spinach: Add the chopped fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, stirring occasionally. Once cooked, remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly before proceeding.
- Mix Filling Ingredients: Transfer the spinach mixture to a mixing bowl. Stir in salt, black pepper, nutmeg, crumbled feta, grated Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, fresh dill (if using), and lemon juice. Mix thoroughly to combine all flavors evenly.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out each thawed puff pastry sheet slightly to even out the thickness. Cut each sheet in half lengthwise to create four rectangular pieces in total.
- Assemble Rolls: Divide the spinach and feta filling evenly along the long edge of each puff pastry rectangle. Carefully roll each rectangle tightly around the filling to form log shapes, ensuring the seam is on the bottom to seal well.
- Apply Egg Wash and Decorate: Place the rolls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops of the rolls with the beaten egg to give them a golden, glossy finish when baked. Optionally, lightly score the tops with a sharp knife for decoration.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown, puffed, and crisp.
- Serve: Remove the rolls from the oven and allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving. These can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh spinach with frozen chopped spinach that has been thawed and thoroughly squeezed dry.
- These rolls are delicious served warm or at room temperature, making them ideal for make-ahead entertaining.
- Reheat leftovers in a moderate oven to maintain crispness rather than microwaving.
