Spanakopita Puff Pastry Swirl Bites Recipe
If you adore the rich, savory flavors of traditional Greek spanakopita but crave a faster, more playful way to enjoy it, the Spanakopita Puff Pastry Swirl Bites Recipe is about to become your new go-to appetizer. Imagine flaky puff pastry generously filled with a vibrant blend of spinach, crumbled feta, creamy mozzarella, fresh dill, and a hint of garlic, all rolled into perfect bite-sized swirls. These golden puff pastry bites are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, easy to whip up, and simply irresistible warm from the oven or at room temperature for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Spanakopita Puff Pastry Swirl Bites Recipe lies in its simple yet carefully balanced ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating the perfect harmony of flavors and textures—from the buttery flakiness of puff pastry to the fresh, cheesy filling that brings it all together.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides a subtle fruity base for sautéing the scallions and spinach with a healthy, smooth finish.
- 8 ounces baby spinach (rough chopped): The star green that adds fresh, earthy flavor and a vibrant pop of color.
- 2 scallions (chopped): Offers a mild oniony bite that complements the creamy cheese beautifully.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasoning to lift and balance all the flavors in the filling.
- 7 ounces crumbled feta cheese: Brings that iconic tangy saltiness that makes spanakopita truly irresistible.
- 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds melty creaminess that softens the feta’s sharpness and binds the filling together.
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill (chopped): Imparts a wonderfully aromatic, slightly sweet herbal note critical for authentic spanakopita flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a gentle kick of garlicky warmth without overpowering the other ingredients.
- 1 puff pastry sheet (defrosted): The golden, flaky vessel that transforms this filling blend into delightful, crunchy swirls.
- 1 egg + 1 tablespoon water (lightly beaten): Used for brushing to create a stunning golden, shiny crust on every swirl.
How to Make Spanakopita Puff Pastry Swirl Bites Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
First things first, preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it’s perfectly hot for baking. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent the delicate puff pastry from sticking. This sets the stage for your beautiful, golden bites.
Step 2: Sauté Spinach and Scallions
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add the chopped scallions. Sauté them for about one minute until fragrant and softened. Toss in the rough-chopped baby spinach, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until the spinach is mostly wilted—this softens the leaves and concentrates their flavor. Remove the mixture from the skillet and place it on a plate to drain and pat dry. Removing excess liquid is crucial so your puff pastry stays crisp, not soggy.
Step 3: Mix the Cheesy Spinach Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine your sautéed spinach and scallion mixture with crumbled feta, shredded mozzarella, chopped dill, and garlic powder. Mix gently but thoroughly to integrate all the flavors. This vibrant, cheesy filling is what gives these swirls their signature deliciousness.
Step 4: Assemble and Roll the Swirls
Lightly flour a clean, flat surface and roll out your thawed puff pastry just enough to straighten and slightly flatten the edges. Brush the entire surface evenly with the lightly beaten egg wash—this helps the filling stick and contributes to an irresistible golden crust. Sprinkle the spinach and cheese filling evenly over the puff pastry. Starting at one short edge, roll the dough tightly into a log as if making cinnamon rolls. Use a sharp knife to slice the rolled log into 1-inch thick swirls and transfer them to your prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Brush the exposed edges of each swirl with the remaining egg wash to promote even browning. Bake in your preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until the puff pastry is puffed up and beautifully golden brown. Your kitchen will start smelling like a Greek taverna in no time!
How to Serve Spanakopita Puff Pastry Swirl Bites Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and flavor, sprinkle fresh chopped dill or parsley lightly over the warm swirls just before serving. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice on top adds a delightful brightness that cuts through the richness perfectly.
Side Dishes
These Spanakopita Puff Pastry Swirl Bites Recipe pair wonderfully with light Greek salads featuring cucumber, tomatoes, olives, and a tangy vinaigrette. For a heartier meal, a bowl of tzatziki provides a cool, creamy dip that complements their crunchy, savory texture.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these swirls on a rustic wooden board lined with parchment paper, accompanied by small bowls of dips like hummus or roasted red pepper spread. For parties, arrange them in a circular pattern on a large platter, garnished with edible flowers or fresh herbs for that eye-catching wow factor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for 2 to 3 days while maintaining good flavor and texture.
Freezing
You can freeze the unbaked swirls by placing them on a lined tray and freezing until solid, then transferring them to a sealed freezer bag for up to 1 month. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 5 minutes to the baking time for perfect results.
Reheating
To bring your Spanakopita Puff Pastry Swirl Bites Recipe back to life, reheat them in a preheated 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until crisp and warm throughout. Avoid microwaving, as that can make the pastry soggy.
FAQs
Can I use regular spinach instead of baby spinach?
Absolutely! Just make sure to roughly chop it and cook it down until well wilted to reduce moisture so the pastries don’t get soggy.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
This recipe is naturally vegetarian since it’s packed with cheese and spinach, but if you want a vegan version, you can substitute the cheese with plant-based alternatives and use oil-based egg wash replacements.
Can I prepare the filling in advance?
Yes! You can make the filling a day ahead; just keep it covered in the fridge to let the flavors marry, then assemble the swirls when ready to bake.
What can I substitute if I don’t have puff pastry?
Puff pastry is ideal for its flaky texture, but phyllo dough can be a traditional alternative if you’re willing to be a bit more hands-on in assembly.
How spicy are these swirls?
These swirls are mild and savory with no heat, making them perfect for all ages and palates. You can always add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a gentle kick if you like.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a fun, flavorful snack or appetizer that’s both impressive and easy, you really owe it to yourself to try the Spanakopita Puff Pastry Swirl Bites Recipe. They are crispy, cheesy, packed with greens, and simply irresistible. Whether it’s for a casual family gathering or an elegant party, these swirls will bring smiles, seconds, and rave reviews. Happy baking and even happier eating!
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Spanakopita Puff Pastry Swirl Bites Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful Spanakopita Puff Pastry Swirls combine flaky puff pastry with a savory blend of spinach, feta, mozzarella, and fresh herbs. These easy-to-make swirls are perfect as appetizers or snack bites, featuring a golden, crispy exterior and rich, cheesy filling with hints of garlic and dill.
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 oz baby spinach, roughly chopped
- 2 scallions, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 7 oz feta cheese, crumbled
- 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons dill, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry, defrosted
- 1 egg + 1 tablespoon water, lightly beaten (egg wash)
- Flour, for dusting surface
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped scallions and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the baby spinach, season with salt and pepper, and cook until mostly wilted. Remove from heat and transfer to a plate. Drain any excess liquid and pat dry to prevent soggy pastry.
- Prepare Filling: In a large bowl, combine the sautéed spinach mixture with crumbled feta, shredded mozzarella, chopped dill, and garlic powder. Mix well to distribute the flavors evenly.
- Roll Puff Pastry: Lightly flour a clean flat surface and roll out the puff pastry slightly to even out the edges. Brush the entire surface with the egg wash to help seal and brown the pastry.
- Assemble Swirls: Evenly sprinkle the spinach-cheese filling over the egg-washed puff pastry. Starting from one short edge, carefully roll the dough up like a cinnamon roll, creating a tight spiral.
- Slice and Bake: Slice the rolled dough into 1-inch thick swirls and place them cut side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops and sides of the swirls with the remaining egg wash to enhance color and crispness.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the swirls are puffed and golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the spinach is well drained to avoid soggy pastry swirls.
- Feel free to substitute fresh herbs like parsley if dill is unavailable.
- These swirls can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.
- For a crispier crust, you can bake on a wire rack placed on the baking sheet.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in a toaster oven.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
