Mediterranean Spinach and Feta Crisps

Name: Mediterranean Spinach and Feta Crisps
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 sheet of phyllo pastry; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/2 cup ricotta cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Sesame seeds for sprinkling (optional)

Author: Melon Claire

Published: November 22, 2024

Mediterranean spinach and feta crisps served on a plate

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Mediterranean Spinach and Feta Crisps are a delightful dish that captures the essence of sunny shores and fresh ingredients. These little parcels of goodness combine the vibrant, earthy aroma of sautéed spinach and the tangy creaminess of feta cheese, all enveloped in crispy phyllo pastry.

This recipe is not only a feast for the senses, but also incredibly easy to whip up, making it a must-try for anyone seeking comfort food that feels both indulgent and healthy. With a step-by-step approach, you’ll find that creating these crispy delights is straightforward even for beginner cooks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One of the greatest aspects of these Mediterranean Spinach and Feta Crisps is the simplicity of the preparation. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that feels gourmet yet accessible. They cook quickly, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings. Plus, who doesn’t love a recipe that comes together in less than half an hour? These crisps are not only a crowd-pleaser, but they also lend themselves beautifully to customization. Whether you want to add extra herbs or swap out feta for a different cheese, the possibilities are endless.

Ingredients

To create your Mediterranean Spinach and Feta Crisps, gather the following ingredients:

1 sheet of phyllo pastry: This thin, flaky pastry becomes perfectly crispy and golden in the oven, giving your dish a delightful crunch.
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped: Fresh spinach brings vibrant color and a nutritional punch, offering a slightly earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with cheese.
1 cup feta cheese, crumbled: Feta adds a creamy, tangy richness that complements the spinach perfectly.
1/2 cup ricotta cheese: This luxurious cheese enhances the filling’s creaminess, giving it a delightful texture that melts in your mouth.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic adds a warm aroma and flavor that elevates this dish, making it feel more robust and comforting.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Rich and fruity, olive oil enhances flavor while helping to crisp the phyllo pastry.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that tie all the flavors together.
Sesame seeds for sprinkling (optional): These tiny seeds add a nutty flavor, and a lovely crunch when toasted.

Step-by-Step Directions

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preparing your oven in advance ensures an even baking process.
Sauté the Garlic: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.
Cook the Spinach: Add the chopped spinach to the skillet, cooking until just wilted. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. The vibrant color will brighten as it cooks down.
Mix the Cheeses: Once the spinach has wilted, remove the skillet from heat and let it cool slightly. Then, mix in the crumbled feta and ricotta cheese. Season with salt and pepper to your liking, ensuring an even mix.
Prepare the Phyllo: Lay the sheet of phyllo pastry on a prepared baking sheet. Cut it into squares or rectangles about 4 inches wide to form pockets for your filling.
Fill the Pastry: Place a spoonful of the cheese and spinach filling in the center of each pastry piece. Carefully fold or twist the pastry to seal in the delicious filling.
Brush with Olive Oil: Using a brush, lightly coat each pastry with olive oil. This step ensures a golden, crispy finish and enhances the flavor.
Add Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle sesame seeds on top of each pastry, if desired. This adds a lovely crunch and an extra layer of flavor.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Your kitchen will soon be filled with an enticing aroma as these crisps bake to perfection.
Serve Warm: Once baked, remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the Mediterranean flavors in every bite!

Tips & Tricks

Phyllo Handling: Phyllo pastry can dry out quickly, so keep the unused sheets covered with a damp cloth while you work. This will prevent them from becoming brittle and unmanageable.
Customize: Feel free to add your favorite herbs, such as dill or parsley, to the filling for an extra flavor boost.
Batch Cooking: These crisps freeze well! Prepare a double batch, freeze half before baking, and pop them straight into the oven when a craving strikes.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Mediterranean Spinach and Feta Crisps make for a fantastic appetizer or snack. They are perfect for serving at parties or family gatherings. Pair them with a fresh, vibrant salad drizzled with lemon and olive oil for a light meal. They also complement a variety of dips such as tzatziki, hummus, or a rich tomato sauce. For a complete Mediterranean experience, serve alongside olives, roasted red peppers, or a platter of assorted cheeses.

Nutritional Information

Each Mediterranean Spinach and Feta Crisp contains approximately 100 calories. These delightful bites are low in carbohydrates, providing a good source of protein from cheeses and spinach, packed with vitamins and minerals. They offer a balanced treat perfect for an appetizer or snack.

Storing Tips & Variations

Store any leftover Mediterranean Spinach and Feta Crisps in an airtight container for up to 2 days in the refrigerator, although they are best enjoyed fresh. If you’d like to freeze them, assemble the pastry pockets without baking them, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from the freezer in a preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy.

Conclusion

Mediterranean Spinach and Feta Crisps are not only delightful to eat but also simple to make. They promise a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavors that will transport you to a sunny terrace overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. We encourage you to try this recipe for yourself and share your experience. You won’t regret the delicious journey of flavors that awaits!

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out excess moisture before mixing it with the cheeses.
Can I substitute other cheeses?
Absolutely! You can use goat cheese or even mozzarella for a different texture and flavor profile.
Is it necessary to use phyllo pastry?
While phyllo pastry gives that perfect crunch, you can substitute with puff pastry, though the cooking time may vary.
Can these be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the crisps ahead of time. Just keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
What can I do with leftover filling?
You can use leftover filling to stuff omelets, mix into pasta, or spread on toasted bread for a delicious bruschetta-style snack.