A delightful Mediterranean-inspired snack, these Spinach and Feta Crisps offer a perfect blend of flaky crunch and creamy, savory filling. Packed with nutrient-rich spinach, tangy feta cheese, and aromatic herbs, these golden-brown pastries make for an excellent appetizer, side dish, or even a light meal. Whether you’re entertaining guests or looking for a quick homemade treat, these crisps deliver an irresistible taste of the Mediterranean in every bite.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup ricotta cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 8 sheets phyllo pastry
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or additional olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat, add minced garlic, and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add chopped spinach to the pan and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine crumbled feta cheese, ricotta cheese, oregano, thyme, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Add the cooled spinach mixture to the bowl and stir until well combined.
- Lay one sheet of phyllo pastry on a clean surface and brush lightly with melted butter or olive oil. Place another sheet on top and repeat the process until you have four layers.
- Cut the stacked phyllo sheets into squares or triangles, depending on your preferred shape.
- Place a spoonful of the spinach and feta filling in the center of each cut pastry piece.
- Fold the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or rectangle, pressing the edges gently to seal. Use a fork or your fingers to crimp the edges securely.
- Arrange the filled pastries on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
- Brush the tops of the crisps with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Enjoy warm with a side of tzatziki sauce or a simple yogurt dip.