Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Rolls
Golden, flaky puff pastry filled with a savory mixture of sautéed spinach, creamy feta, and ricotta cheese—these Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Rolls are a delightful snack or appetizer that combine simple ingredients with impressive flavor. Topped with sesame seeds for extra texture and aroma, they are ideal for entertaining or everyday indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These puff pastry rolls are the perfect blend of ease and elegance. Whether you’re hosting guests, preparing a picnic, or simply want something delicious with minimal effort, this recipe delivers. The crispy, buttery pastry contrasts beautifully with the rich, herbaceous filling, making each bite memorable. They’re also versatile enough to be served hot or cold, and can be made ahead of time.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, cooking for 3–4 minutes until soft and fragrant.
- Add the chopped spinach to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Cook until the spinach is wilted. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled spinach mixture with crumbled feta and ricotta cheese. Stir until evenly mixed.
- Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Spread the spinach and cheese filling evenly across the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border along one edge.
- Carefully roll the pastry into a tight log, seam-side down. Slice into 4–6 equal pieces.
- Arrange the rolls on the prepared baking sheet. Whisk the egg with milk to make an egg wash, then brush it over the tops of the rolls.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds over each roll.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and puffed. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 4 to 6 rolls, depending on how thick you slice them.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: Approximately 45 minutes
Variations
- Add herbs: Incorporate chopped fresh dill, parsley, or mint for added flavor.
- Use different cheese: Try goat cheese or cream cheese in place of ricotta for a tangier or creamier texture.
- Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to the spinach mixture.
- Include mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms add a rich umami depth to the filling.
- Mini version: Cut into smaller rolls for bite-sized appetizers or party snacks.
storage/reheating
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place the rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through and crisp. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the pastry soggy.
These can also be frozen before or after baking. Freeze individually on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat from frozen in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 15–20 minutes.
FAQs
How do I prevent the pastry from becoming soggy?
Allow the spinach mixture to cool before spreading it onto the pastry, and avoid overfilling with moist ingredients.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, thaw and drain frozen spinach thoroughly before using to prevent excess moisture.
What can I use instead of puff pastry?
You can substitute with phyllo dough, though it will result in a more delicate, crisp texture.
Are these rolls vegetarian?
Yes, as long as your cheeses are made without animal rennet, this dish is entirely vegetarian.
Can I prepare these in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the rolls a few hours ahead and refrigerate them until ready to bake.
Do I have to use sesame seeds on top?
No, the sesame seeds are optional. You can leave them off or use poppy seeds or grated Parmesan instead.
Can I add protein to this recipe?
Absolutely—cooked, crumbled sausage or diced chicken can be added to the filling.
What dipping sauces go well with these rolls?
They pair nicely with tzatziki, garlic yogurt sauce, or even a light tomato chutney.
How do I prevent the rolls from unrolling while baking?
Make sure the seam is placed down on the baking sheet, and consider sealing the edge with a bit of egg wash.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe can be easily doubled. Just use additional sheets of puff pastry and adjust the filling accordingly.
Conclusion
Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Rolls are a simple yet elegant solution for appetizers, snacks, or light meals. They combine rich, savory flavors with the unbeatable texture of golden pastry, offering flexibility for variations and make-ahead convenience. Whether for a party platter or an afternoon treat, these rolls are sure to satisfy.
PrintSpinach and Feta Puff Pastry Rolls
Golden, flaky puff pastry rolls filled with a savory mixture of spinach, feta, and ricotta cheese, topped with sesame seeds for a perfect appetizer or snack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 rolls 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and onion, sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and fragrant.
- Add spinach, season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Cook until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a bowl, combine spinach mixture, feta, and ricotta. Mix well.
- Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Spread the filling evenly, leaving 1 inch at the edge.
- Roll the pastry tightly into a log, seam-side down. Slice into 4–6 equal pieces.
- Place rolls on the prepared baking sheet. Whisk egg with milk and brush over each roll.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds generously on top.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden and puffed. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Ensure the spinach mixture is cool before adding cheese to prevent melting.
- Can be prepared ahead and baked just before serving.
- Try adding herbs like dill or parsley for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: spinach, feta, puff pastry, vegetarian appetizer, baked rolls