When you’re craving a warm, savory snack that’s both impressive and easy to make, Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Twists are a game changer. These flaky, golden treats are filled with the perfect balance of creamy feta and fresh spinach, making them an ideal appetizer for dinner parties, a quick lunch, or even a fun afternoon snack. If you’ve ever tried store-bought puff pastry, you know how easy it is to create something both beautiful and delicious with minimal effort—and these twists take full advantage of that.
What Are Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Twists?
Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Twists are a delightful blend of buttery, flaky puff pastry and savory fillings. The twists themselves are inspired by a classic Greek dish, spanakopita, but with a quicker, more accessible twist—literally! These bite-sized delights are stuffed with sautéed spinach, tangy feta cheese, and fresh herbs, all wrapped in puff pastry and twisted into beautiful, golden spirals. The result is a crispy, flavorful pastry that’s crispy on the outside and soft and savory on the inside.
These twists are incredibly versatile, making them the perfect snack or appetizer. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a movie night, or preparing a quick snack for the kids, Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Twists are sure to impress. They’re the kind of dish that feels fancy but is surprisingly simple to put together.
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Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Twists
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 twists 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These **Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Twists** are a delicious and easy snack with flaky puff pastry, spinach, and tangy feta. Perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry
- 1 ½ cups fresh spinach
- ¾ cup feta cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Fresh herbs (dill or parsley)
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- 1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- 2. Sauté spinach in olive oil until wilted, then drain and chop.
- 3. Roll out the puff pastry and fold in half.
- 4. Spread spinach and feta mixture on pastry, then cut into strips.
- 5. Twist each strip and place on a baking sheet.
- 6. Brush with egg wash and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden.
Notes
- For a vegan version, substitute the feta with plant-based cheese and use a vegan puff pastry. You can also freeze the twists before baking and bake them straight from the freezer.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s no denying it—Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Twists are a treat that checks all the boxes. They’re quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and easy to customize based on your preferences. These twists combine buttery puff pastry with the earthy taste of spinach and the tang of feta, creating the perfect flavor balance.
Plus, they’re an excellent choice for anyone who loves finger foods. They’re perfect for game days, parties, or even as a side dish to complement a larger meal. And best of all, you can make them in about 30 minutes, making them a go-to option when you need something quick, but impressive.
Ingredients You’ll Need (and Why They Matter)
For these Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Twists, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that deliver maximum flavor with minimal prep time:
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1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought, thawed)
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1 ½ cups fresh spinach (you can use frozen, but fresh is best for texture)
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¾ cup feta cheese (crumbled)
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1 egg (for an egg wash to give that golden finish)
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1 tablespoon olive oil (to sauté the spinach)
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1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, but it adds a nice punch)
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Fresh herbs (such as dill or parsley for extra flavor)
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Salt and pepper (to taste)
These ingredients are all about creating a balance of textures and flavors. The puff pastry gives you that light, crispy crunch, while the spinach and feta filling adds richness and depth. The egg wash brings a beautiful golden color to the twists, making them even more irresistible.
Step-by-Step Preparation & Baking Instructions
Ready to get baking? Here’s how to make Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Twists from start to finish:
1. Preheat your oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that when your pastry goes in, it bakes evenly and crisps up beautifully.
2. Sauté the spinach
Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the fresh spinach and sauté it for about 2-3 minutes, just until it wilts down. You’ll notice the spinach releases a lot of moisture. To avoid a soggy filling, drain any excess liquid from the spinach and let it cool for a few minutes. Once cooled, chop it up slightly and mix it with the crumbled feta, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Roll out the puff pastry
Unroll your puff pastry sheet onto a floured surface. Use a rolling pin to gently roll it out into an even rectangle. The goal is to make the pastry slightly thinner and more pliable for easy twisting.
4. Assemble the twists
Spread the spinach and feta mixture evenly over the pastry, leaving about an inch around the edges. Then, fold the pastry sheet in half, covering the filling. With a sharp knife, cut the pastry into long strips (about 1 to 1 ½ inches wide). Next, twist each strip gently from both ends to create a spiral shape, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Egg wash and bake
Brush each twist with the egg wash for that beautiful golden finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until they’re golden brown and crispy. You’ll know they’re done when the pastry has risen beautifully and turned a deep golden color.
Dietary Variations: Vegan, Gluten-Free, Low-Calorie & More
While this recipe is already delicious, there are several ways you can adapt it to fit different dietary needs:
Vegan Adaptation
To make these twists vegan, simply substitute the feta with a plant-based version or use tofu crumbled in place of the feta. You can also skip the egg wash and use a bit of plant-based milk for a light glaze, or leave them without any glaze.
Gluten-Free Option
To make this recipe gluten-free, you can swap the puff pastry with a gluten-free version. Many stores now offer gluten-free puff pastry that works just as well for this recipe.
Low-Calorie / Lighter Version
If you’re looking to make these twists lighter, you can reduce the amount of feta or opt for a lower-fat version. Use less oil when sautéing the spinach, or swap the puff pastry for a lower-calorie alternative, such as phyllo dough.
Halal / Vegetarian
This recipe is already vegetarian, so it’s perfect for meat-free diets. To ensure it meets halal requirements, check the ingredients in the puff pastry to ensure they align with halal standards.
Storage, Make-Ahead & Reheating Tips
Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Twists are best served fresh from the oven when they’re golden and crispy. However, if you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven for about 5-7 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to restore their crispness.
If you’re planning ahead, you can prepare the twists, place them on a baking sheet, and refrigerate or freeze them until you’re ready to bake. Just make sure to let them come to room temperature before baking if frozen.
Enjoy Your Savory Twists!
Whether you’re hosting a party or just enjoying a snack, Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Twists are sure to be a hit. These delicious twists are easy to make, customizable to your dietary preferences, and packed with flavor in every bite. Give them a try the next time you want a quick and impressive dish that everyone will love!
FAQ
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh for these twists?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen spinach instead of fresh. Just be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out all excess moisture to prevent the filling from becoming too soggy. Fresh spinach tends to have a lighter texture, but frozen spinach will work just fine if you’re in a pinch.
How do I avoid soggy puff pastry with spinach?
To avoid soggy pastry, always drain the spinach thoroughly after cooking. Sauté it just enough to release moisture, but don’t cook it too long. Additionally, consider using a paper towel to blot any remaining moisture before mixing it with the feta.
Can I make these puff pastry twists ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the twists ahead of time. Assemble them on a baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to a day before baking. You can also freeze them, and bake directly from the freezer—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I use as a substitute for feta cheese?
If you’re not a fan of feta or need a substitution, goat cheese, ricotta, or cream cheese can be great alternatives. For a vegan option, use a plant-based feta or crumbled tofu seasoned with lemon juice and herbs.
How long do leftovers last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore the crispiness.
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