Some dishes are born to be the star of the appetizer table, and these Easy Mediterranean Spinach and Feta Crisps are exactly that. Picture flaky, golden phyllo pastry hugging a savory spinach and feta filling, perfectly seasoned with a hint of garlic, dill, and nutmeg. It’s like a Mediterranean vacation in every bite.
I first made these crisps when hosting a casual wine night with friends. I wanted something elegant yet approachable, and these little parcels delivered. They were gone within minutes, with everyone asking for the recipe. The best part? They’re deceptively simple to make, even if you’re new to working with phyllo dough.
These crisps are perfect for entertaining, whether it’s a fancy dinner party, a potluck, or a cozy night in. They’re versatile, portable, and irresistibly delicious. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get baking—your appetizer game is about to reach new heights.
These Easy Mediterranean Spinach and Feta Crisps are a delightful appetizer or snack that combine the flaky texture of phyllo pastry with a rich, savory spinach and feta filling. Infused with classic Mediterranean flavors like dill and garlic, these crisps are crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside.
The recipe is quick and approachable, using pre-made phyllo sheets to cut down on prep time without sacrificing flavor. They’re baked to golden perfection, making them a lighter alternative to fried snacks. Serve them with a side of tzatziki or a fresh salad for a complete Mediterranean experience.
Exciting Story
The first time I served these, my husband couldn’t stop eating them. “Are there more?” he asked, even before finishing the first batch. My kids, who usually avoid spinach, loved the crispy texture and creamy filling. Now, these crisps have become a family favorite—perfect for everything from lunchbox snacks to holiday appetizers. They’re proof that sometimes, the simplest recipes are the most loved.
Why These Easy Mediterranean Spinach and Feta Crisps
What Makes It Special
- Flaky and Savory: The phyllo dough crisps up beautifully, providing the perfect contrast to the creamy filling.
- Packed with Flavor: Spinach, feta, garlic, and dill create a mouthwatering Mediterranean profile.
- Easy to Make: Pre-made phyllo dough makes this recipe quick and stress-free.
- Versatile: Great as an appetizer, snack, or even a light meal with a side salad.
What You Need for Easy Mediterranean Spinach and Feta Crisps
For the Filling:
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or 1 cup frozen, thawed and drained)
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp dried dill
- 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Crisps:
- 1 package phyllo dough, thawed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (or olive oil, for brushing)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
How to Make Easy Mediterranean Spinach and Feta Crisps
- Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the spinach, feta, ricotta, garlic, dill, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. If using frozen spinach, make sure it is thoroughly squeezed dry to avoid excess moisture.
- Prepare the Phyllo Dough: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lay one sheet of phyllo dough on a clean surface and brush lightly with melted butter or olive oil. Layer a second sheet on top and repeat the process until you have 3 layers.
- Assemble the Crisps: Cut the layered phyllo into 3-inch wide strips. Place a teaspoon of filling near the bottom of each strip. Fold one corner of the strip over the filling to form a triangle, then continue folding (like folding a flag) until the strip is fully wrapped. Repeat with remaining phyllo and filling.
- Bake: Place the crisps on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with butter or olive oil and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden and crisp.
- Serve: Let the crisps cool slightly before serving. Pair with tzatziki sauce or a simple Greek salad for a complete Mediterranean experience.
Tips for Easy Mediterranean Spinach and Feta Crisps
- Work quickly with phyllo dough to prevent it from drying out. Keep unused sheets covered with a damp kitchen towel.
- For extra crispiness, bake the crisps on a wire rack placed over the baking sheet.
- Make the filling ahead of time and refrigerate for up to a day to save prep time.
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap feta for goat cheese or cream cheese for a milder flavor.
- Add sautéed onions or mushrooms to the filling for extra depth.
- Use puff pastry instead of phyllo for a different texture.
Make a Healthier Version
- Use olive oil instead of butter for brushing the phyllo.
- Substitute whole-wheat phyllo dough for added fiber.
- Reduce the feta cheese and increase the spinach for a lighter filling.
Closing for Easy Mediterranean Spinach and Feta Crisps
And there you have it! These Easy Mediterranean Spinach and Feta Crisps are the perfect blend of flaky, creamy, and flavorful. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. Don’t forget to share your creations and check out our other Mediterranean-inspired recipes. Kali orexi!
Frequently Asked Questions for Easy Mediterranean Spinach and Feta Crisps
- Can I make these ahead of time? Yes! Assemble the crisps and refrigerate them (uncooked) for up to a day. Bake just before serving.
- What if I don’t have phyllo dough? Puff pastry or wonton wrappers can be used as substitutes, but the texture will be slightly different.
- How do I store leftovers? Store cooked crisps in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
- Can I freeze these? Absolutely! Freeze the assembled, unbaked crisps on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5-7 minutes to the cooking time.
- What dipping sauce goes well with these? Tzatziki, hummus, or a roasted red pepper dip pair beautifully.
- Can I add meat to the filling? Yes, cooked ground lamb or chicken can be added for a heartier version.
- What if my phyllo dough tears? Don’t worry! Simply patch it with another piece of phyllo and brush with butter to seal.
- How do I prevent the crisps from getting soggy? Ensure the filling isn’t too wet and bake the crisps on a wire rack for even air circulation.
- Can I make these gluten-free? Use gluten-free phyllo dough, available in specialty stores.
- What can I serve with these crisps? Pair them with a fresh Greek salad, olives, or a platter of Mediterranean dips.
- Do I need to thaw frozen spinach? Yes, thaw and squeeze out as much moisture as possible to prevent soggy filling.
- Can I use fresh dill instead of dried? Absolutely! Use 1 tablespoon of fresh dill for a brighter flavor.