Spinach Feta Pinwheels: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Spinach feta pinwheels: Prepare to be amazed by these savory, flaky pastries that are as delightful to look at as they are to eat! Imagine layers of golden, buttery puff pastry swirled with a creamy, tangy filling of spinach and feta cheese. These aren’t just appetizers; they’re edible works of art that will disappear in minutes at any gathering.

The concept of filled pastries, like our spinach feta pinwheels, has roots stretching back centuries across various cultures. From the savory pies of ancient Greece to the delicate pastries of the Ottoman Empire, the idea of encasing flavorful fillings in dough has always been a culinary staple. This particular combination of spinach and feta, however, speaks to the Mediterranean diet’s emphasis on fresh, wholesome ingredients.

What makes these pinwheels so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of textures and flavors. The crisp, airy puff pastry gives way to a soft, cheesy center, while the spinach adds a subtle earthiness that complements the salty feta. They’re incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort for maximum impact. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, need a quick snack, or want to impress your guests with a sophisticated appetizer, these spinach feta pinwheels are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. I promise you, once you try them, you’ll be making them again and again!

Ingredients:

• 1 package (14.1 ounces) refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
• 10 ounces frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
• 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for topping)

Preparing the Spinach and Feta Filling

Okay, let’s get started with the heart of our pinwheels – the delicious spinach and feta filling! This is where all the flavor comes from, so we want to make sure we get it just right. Don’t skip the squeezing step for the spinach; otherwise, your pinwheels will be soggy.

1. Thaw and Squeeze the Spinach: If you’re using frozen spinach (which I usually do because it’s so convenient), make sure it’s completely thawed. The most important part is to squeeze out as much excess water as possible. I usually put the thawed spinach in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and wring it out over the sink. You’ll be surprised how much water comes out! This step is crucial to prevent soggy pinwheels.
2. Sauté the Garlic: In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter. We just want to release its lovely aroma.
3. Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the squeezed spinach, crumbled feta cheese, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, sautéed garlic, chopped dill, and chopped parsley.
4. Season to Perfection: Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember that feta cheese is already quite salty, so start with a small amount of salt and adjust as needed. Give it a good mix to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
5. Add the Egg: Add the lightly beaten egg to the spinach mixture. The egg acts as a binder, helping the filling hold together when we roll up the pinwheels. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined.

Assembling the Pinwheels

Now for the fun part – assembling the pinwheels! This is where we transform the pie crust and filling into those beautiful, swirly appetizers. Make sure your pie crust is cold but pliable for easy rolling.

1. Prepare the Pie Crust: On a lightly floured surface, unroll one of the refrigerated pie crusts. If the crust is too cold and cracks, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes until it becomes more pliable.
2. Spread the Filling: Evenly spread half of the spinach and feta filling over the entire surface of the pie crust, leaving a small border (about 1/2 inch) along one edge. This will help seal the pinwheel when we roll it up.
3. Roll it Up: Starting from the opposite edge (the one without the border), tightly roll up the pie crust into a log. Try to keep the roll as tight as possible to create neat pinwheels.
4. Seal the Edge: Moisten the border with a little water and press it firmly to seal the roll. This will prevent the filling from escaping during baking.
5. Repeat with the Second Crust: Repeat steps 1-4 with the second pie crust and the remaining spinach and feta filling.
6. Chill the Rolls: Wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This will make it easier to slice the pinwheels and prevent them from losing their shape during baking. You can even chill them for longer, up to a few hours, if you’re preparing them in advance.

Slicing and Baking the Pinwheels

Almost there! Now we slice, bake, and get ready to enjoy these savory treats. A sharp knife is key for clean slices, and don’t overcrowd the baking sheet.

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the pinwheels from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
2. Slice the Pinwheels: Remove the chilled logs from the refrigerator. Using a sharp, serrated knife, slice each log into 1/2-inch thick pinwheels. You should get about 12-15 pinwheels from each log.
3. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the sliced pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
4. Egg Wash (Optional): For a golden-brown finish, brush the tops of the pinwheels with a lightly beaten egg. This will also add a nice sheen.
5. Sprinkle with Sesame Seeds (Optional): If desired, sprinkle the pinwheels with sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal.
6. Bake to Perfection: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pinwheels are golden brown and the filling is heated through. Keep an eye on them, as baking times may vary depending on your oven.
7. Cool and Serve: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the pinwheels cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a serving platter. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for Success

Here are a few extra tips to ensure your spinach feta pinwheels are a hit:

• Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overfill the pie crust with the spinach and feta filling. Too much filling will make it difficult to roll up the pinwheels and may cause them to burst during baking.
• Use a Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is essential for slicing the pinwheels cleanly. A dull knife will squish the filling and make the pinwheels look messy.
• Chill the Dough: Chilling the rolled-up logs before slicing is crucial. This will firm up the filling and make it easier to slice the pinwheels without them losing their shape.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the pinwheels ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
• Customize the Filling: Feel free to customize the filling to your liking. You can add other vegetables, such as sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers, or use different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or mozzarella.

Variations

Want to mix things up a bit? Here are some fun variations you can try:

• Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil to the spinach and feta filling for a Mediterranean twist.
• Ham and Cheese: Replace the spinach with diced ham and use cheddar cheese instead of feta for a savory ham and cheese pinwheel.
• Pesto and Parmesan: Spread pesto on the pie crust instead of the spinach filling and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese for a simple and flavorful pinwheel.
• Spicy Pinwheels: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the spinach and feta filling for a little kick.

Serving Suggestions

Spinach feta pinwheels are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

• Appetizer: Serve them as a delicious appetizer at your next party or gathering.
• Snack: Enjoy them as a satisfying snack any time of day.
• Lunch: Pack them in your lunchbox for a tasty and convenient meal.
• Brunch: Add them to your brunch spread for a savory and flavorful option.
• Side Dish: Serve them as a side dish with soup or salad.

I hope you enjoy making and eating these spinach feta pinwheels as much as I do! They’re always a crowd-pleaser, and they’re so easy to customize to your own taste. Happy baking!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Spinach Feta Pinwheels are truly a must-try for your next gathering, a quick lunch, or even a satisfying snack. I know, I know, I might be biased, but trust me on this one. The flaky puff pastry, the creamy feta, and the vibrant spinach create a symphony of flavors and textures that will have everyone reaching for seconds (and maybe even thirds!).

What makes these pinwheels so special? It’s the perfect balance of savory and slightly salty, with a hint of freshness from the spinach. They’re incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort and ingredients, yet they deliver maximum flavor. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile! You can serve them warm, straight from the oven, for that melt-in-your-mouth experience, or let them cool down for a delightful picnic treat.

But the fun doesn’t stop there! Feel free to get creative with your fillings. Want to add a little kick? A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce will do the trick. Craving something heartier? Consider adding some cooked chicken or crumbled sausage. For a vegetarian twist, try incorporating sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, or roasted red peppers. The possibilities are endless!

Serving Suggestions:

These Spinach Feta Pinwheels are fantastic on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Serve them with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, or alongside a fresh salad for a light and refreshing meal. They’re also a great addition to a cheese board or appetizer platter. For a more substantial meal, try serving them with a bowl of creamy tomato soup.

Variations to Explore:

* Mediterranean Pinwheels: Add Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkle of oregano to the filling.
* Spicy Pinwheels: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
* Chicken Pinwheels: Add cooked and shredded chicken to the filling for a heartier option.
* Vegetarian Pinwheels: Experiment with different vegetables like roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or mushrooms.
* Different Cheeses: While feta is the star, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like ricotta, goat cheese, or even a sprinkle of parmesan.

I truly believe that these Spinach Feta Pinwheels will become a staple in your recipe repertoire. They’re quick, easy, delicious, and endlessly customizable. What more could you ask for?

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create some culinary magic! I’m confident that you’ll love these pinwheels as much as I do.

And now, for the most important part: I want to hear about your experience! Did you try the recipe? Did you make any variations? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos, comments, and suggestions in the comments section below. I can’t wait to see what you create! Happy baking, and enjoy every delicious bite of these amazing Spinach Feta Pinwheels! I am sure that you will find this recipe to be a winner.

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