Name: Flaky Spinach & Feta Puff Pastry: Easy Savory Appetizer Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 package puff pastry (2 sheets, thawed in fridge overnight); 2 cups fresh spinach (or 1 cup frozen, thawed and well-drained); 1 small onion, finely diced (optional); 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional); 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1 egg (for filling binding); 1 tbsp fresh herbs (dill, parsley, or mint), chopped; Salt & pepper, to taste; Pinch of nutmeg (optional); 1–2 tbsp olive oil or butter (for sautéing); 1 egg (for egg wash)

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Introduction

This flaky spinach and feta puff pastry is a simple yet delicious savory appetizer perfect for any occasion. With a crisp golden crust and a flavorful filling of spinach, feta, and herbs, it’s sure to impress your guests or satisfy your snack cravings.

A stack of three square-shaped spinach and cheese pastries sits on a wooden board with a white marbled surface underneath. Each pastry has a golden-brown, flaky crust sprinkled with sesame seeds and finely chopped parsley on top. The layers of the crust are clearly visible, showing a light, airy texture. Inside, there is a dark green spinach and white cheese filling that looks creamy and dense, contrasting with the crispy outer layers. Some parsley is scattered around the board adding fresh green color. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 package puff pastry (2 sheets, thawed in fridge overnight)
2 cups fresh spinach (or 1 cup frozen, thawed and well-drained)
1 small onion, finely diced (optional)
2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1 egg (for filling binding)
1 egg (for egg wash)
1–2 tbsp olive oil or butter (for sautéing)
1 tbsp fresh herbs (dill, parsley, or mint), chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste
Pinch of nutmeg (optional, for warmth)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the filling by heating olive oil or butter in a skillet. Sauté the onion until soft, then add the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
Step 2: Add fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted. If using frozen spinach, skip cooking but make sure it is thoroughly squeezed dry.
Step 3: Transfer the spinach mixture to a bowl and let it cool slightly. Stir in crumbled feta, the beaten egg, chopped fresh herbs, salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using.
Step 4: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 5: Roll out the puff pastry slightly on a floured surface and cut it into squares or rectangles.
Step 6: Place 1–2 tablespoons of the filling in the center of each pastry piece. Fold into your desired shape—triangles or rectangles—and seal the edges by pressing with a fork.
Step 7: Brush the tops of the pastries with the beaten egg for a shiny, golden finish. Lightly score the tops to create vents for steam to escape.
Step 8: Bake for 20–25 minutes until the pastries are puffed and golden brown. Let them cool briefly on a wire rack before serving.

Tips & Variations

For added flavor, incorporate sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or sun-dried tomatoes into the filling.
To make this recipe vegan, use dairy-free puff pastry and a vegan feta substitute.
You can assemble the pastries ahead of time and freeze them unbaked; bake directly from frozen, adding 5–7 minutes to the baking time.
Serve these pastries with tzatziki, hummus, or a light Greek salad for a complete appetizer.

Storage

Store leftover pastries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness. You can also freeze baked pastries; thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat similarly.

How to Serve

Three square pieces of golden-brown puff pastry are stacked on top of each other on a wooden board. Each piece has several flaky layers with a shiny, crisp top sprinkled with sesame seeds and some green herbs. Inside, a thick layer of dark green spinach mixed with creamy white cheese fills the middle. The wooden board sits on a white marbled surface with a blurred bowl of green herbs visible in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach?

Yes, you can substitute 1 cup of thawed and well-drained frozen spinach for the fresh spinach. Just make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible to prevent soggy pastry.

Do I have to use both eggs listed in the recipe?

Yes, one egg is mixed into the filling to help bind the ingredients, while the second egg is reserved for brushing on top of the pastries to give them a beautiful golden finish.