Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Pinwheels Recipe
Spinach and Feta Pinwheels are a delicious savory appetizer made with flaky puff pastry filled with a flavorful mixture of sautéed spinach, onions, oregano, garlic, creamy feta cheese, and eggs. These golden-brown pinwheels are perfect for parties, snacks, or a light meal, offering a delightful combination of crispy pastry and tender, cheesy filling.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Yield: 2 dozen pinwheels
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 packages (10 ounces each) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 2 cups crumbled feta cheese
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
Pastry
- 1 package (17.3 ounces) frozen puff pastry, thawed
Instructions
- Sauté the aromatics and spinach: In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Stir in the dried oregano and minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant. Add the thawed and thoroughly squeezed dry spinach, cooking the mixture for 3 more minutes until all excess liquid evaporates. Transfer the spinach mixture to a large bowl and allow it to cool completely.
- Finish the spinach filling: Once the spinach mixture has cooled, stir in the crumbled feta cheese and lightly beaten eggs. Mix thoroughly to combine but avoid adding these ingredients while the spinach is still hot, as heat can melt the cheese and scramble the eggs, causing an undesirable texture.
- Prepare the puff pastry: Lightly flour your work surface to prevent sticking. Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheets gently. Evenly spread half of the spinach filling over each sheet, keeping the filling within 1/2 inch of the edges.
- Roll and slice the pinwheels: Carefully roll each pastry sheet jelly-roll style, starting from one long edge, to form tight logs. Using a sharp knife, cut each roll into twelve slices approximately 3/4 inch thick. Arrange the slices cut side down on greased baking sheets lined with parchment paper to ensure easy removal after baking.
- Bake the pinwheels: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the pinwheels for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and puffed. Remove from the oven and serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the spinach is thoroughly squeezed to remove excess moisture and prevent soggy pastry.
- Do not add feta cheese and eggs to the hot spinach mixture to avoid curdling and melting.
- Lightly flour the surface when working with puff pastry to prevent sticking and tearing.
- Using parchment paper on baking sheets helps the pinwheels lift easily without breaking.
- These pinwheels are best served warm but can be enjoyed at room temperature as well.
