Mediterranean Spinach and Feta (Printable Version)
Crispy phyllo parcels with savory spinach and feta filling, seasoned with Mediterranean herbs for golden appetizers.
# What You'll Need:
→ Filling
01 - 10.5 oz fresh spinach leaves, washed and chopped
02 - 7 oz feta cheese, crumbled
03 - 1.75 oz cream cheese
04 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
05 - 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried)
06 - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
07 - ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
08 - ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
09 - Zest of 1 lemon
→ Crisps
10 - 8 sheets phyllo (filo) pastry
11 - 2.1 oz unsalted butter, melted (or olive oil for brushing)
→ To Finish
12 - 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
# Step-by-Step:
01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a large skillet over medium heat, wilt the spinach for 2–3 minutes. Drain any excess liquid and let cool.
03 - In a bowl, combine the cooled spinach, feta, cream cheese, garlic, dill, parsley, black pepper, nutmeg, and lemon zest. Mix until well combined.
04 - Place one sheet of phyllo pastry on a clean surface; keep remaining sheets covered with a damp towel to prevent drying. Lightly brush the sheet with melted butter.
05 - Cut the sheet lengthwise into 2 equal strips. Place 1 heaped tablespoon of filling at the bottom of each strip. Fold the corner over the filling to form a triangle; continue folding up the strip, maintaining the triangle shape, until you reach the end. Repeat with remaining pastry and filling.
06 - Arrange the crisps on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with more melted butter and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.
07 - Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the crisps are golden brown and crisp. Serve warm or at room temperature.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- These crispy parcels disappear faster than you can bake them, making them perfect for feeding a crowd
- The combination of tangy feta and fresh herbs creates that restaurant quality flavor you crave
02 -
- Working with phyllo requires patience, but rushing leads to tears and torn pastry
- Drain the spinach really well or your filling will be soggy and your crisps will be sad
03 -
- Mix a pinch of red pepper flakes into the filling for warmth without overwhelming heat
- Brush the tops with egg wash instead of butter for an extra glossy finish