Mediterranean spinach feta cheese has become my go-to for quick weeknight dinners that still feel special. I remember the first time I tried a dish like this at a little cafe in Greece; the flaky pastry, the warm, savory filling, and that salty tang of feta was pure magic. This easy Mediterranean spinach feta dish captures that essence perfectly. It’s incredibly satisfying with its layers of flavor from the fresh spinach, briny olives, and sweet sun-dried tomatoes, all encased in golden, buttery puff pastry. This recipe is a fantastic way to bring a taste of the Mediterranean right into your kitchen. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean Spinach Feta Cheese

Get ready to fall in love with this incredibly versatile dish. It’s perfect for so many occasions!

• Incredibly Flavorful: The combination of savory spinach, salty feta, briny olives, and sweet sun-dried tomatoes is simply divine.
• Quick and Easy Preparation: This Mediterranean spinach feta bake comes together in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Perfect Appetizer: These make a stunning and delicious appetizer for parties or gatherings. Your guests will rave about this spinach feta cheese Mediterranean dip!
• Healthy Choice: Packed with vegetables and healthy fats, it’s a satisfying option that feels good to eat.
• Versatile Main Dish: Serve it as a light lunch or a satisfying vegetarian main course.
• Beautiful Presentation: The golden puff pastry and vibrant filling are visually appealing.
• Customizable: Easily adapt this spinach and feta cheese Mediterranean style recipe with your favorite additions.

Ingredients for Mediterranean Spinach Feta Cheese Bake

Gather these simple ingredients for an authentic Mediterranean spinach feta dish. They come together to create a truly delicious Mediterranean spinach feta experience.

• 1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing the aromatics
• 1 medium onion, chopped – provides a sweet base
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – indispensable for flavor
• 10 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped – wilts down beautifully, providing nutrients and volume
• 8 ounces feta cheese, crumbled – the star, offering that classic salty, tangy Mediterranean taste
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped – adds a concentrated sweetness and chew
• 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced – for that essential briny, Greek flair
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – to enhance all the flavors
• 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – for a gentle warmth
• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed – creates a wonderfully flaky, golden crust
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) – to give the pastry a beautiful sheen

How to Make Mediterranean Spinach Feta Cheese

Making this delicious Mediterranean spinach feta dish is surprisingly simple, and the results are absolutely stunning. Follow these easy steps to create a savory, flaky pastry that’s perfect for any occasion. You’ll be amazed at how quickly this Mediterranean spinach feta bake comes together!

1. Step 1: Prepare the Filling. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 medium onion, chopped, and cook until it’s nice and soft, about 5 minutes. Then, stir in 2 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for just 1 minute more until you can really smell its fragrant aroma. Add the 10 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped, and cook until it wilts down, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess liquid from the spinach. Once drained, remove the skillet from the heat. Now, stir in the 8 ounces feta cheese, crumbled, 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped, 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes (if using). Mix everything together until well combined. This is your savory Mediterranean spinach feta cheese filling!
2. Step 2: Assemble the Pastry. Gently unfold the 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed, onto a lightly floured surface. I like to work quickly so the pastry stays cold. Spoon the prepared Mediterranean spinach feta cheese mixture evenly onto one half of the puff pastry. Be sure to leave a border of about an inch around the edges. Carefully fold the other half of the puff pastry over the filling, creating a sealed turnover. Use a fork to gently crimp the edges all the way around, ensuring the filling stays tucked inside. This sealing step is crucial for a beautiful finish.
3. Step 3: Bake to Golden Perfection. Transfer the assembled Mediterranean spinach feta cheese turnovers to the prepared baking sheet. Use a sharp knife to cut a few small slits in the top of each pastry. These little vents will allow steam to escape as it bakes, preventing the pastry from puffing up unevenly. Brush the tops generously with the 1 beaten egg for an irresistible golden sheen. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is beautifully puffed and a deep golden brown. The aroma filling your kitchen will be incredible! Let these Mediterranean spinach feta cheese crisps cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Mediterranean Spinach Feta Cheese

Want to elevate your Mediterranean spinach feta cheese game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make a big difference in flavor and texture. Following these simple tips will help ensure your dish is absolutely delicious every time.

• For the crispiest pastry, make sure your puff pastry is fully thawed but still cold when you start assembling.
• Don’t overstuff the pastry; a little extra room helps it puff up perfectly.
• Drain the spinach very well after wilting to prevent a soggy filling.
• Taste your filling before assembling and adjust seasonings as needed.

What’s the secret to perfect Mediterranean spinach feta cheese?

The magic lies in the balance of salty feta, briny olives, sweet sun-dried tomatoes, and perfectly wilted spinach, all embraced by flaky puff pastry. Proper draining of the spinach is key to avoiding a watery filling. For more information on the benefits of spinach, check out nutritional information on spinach.

Can I make Mediterranean spinach feta cheese ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Assemble the pastries just before baking for the best texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Mediterranean spinach feta cheese?

Avoid overfilling the pastry and ensure you drain excess moisture from the spinach. Also, resist the urge to open the oven door too early, as this can cause the puff pastry to deflate. Understanding the science behind baking can help prevent these issues.

Best Ways to Serve Mediterranean Spinach Feta Cheese

These savory turnovers are incredibly versatile! They’re fantastic served warm as a delightful appetizer for any gathering, perhaps alongside a simple Caprese salad for a complete meal. For a lighter lunch or brunch, I love pairing these Mediterranean spinach feta cheese crisps with a dollop of tzatziki or a fresh lemon-herb vinaigrette dressing. They also make a wonderful side dish for grilled chicken or fish, adding a burst of Mediterranean flavor to your plate. This easy Mediterranean spinach feta recipe truly shines no matter how you serve it.

Nutrition Facts for Mediterranean Spinach Feta Cheese

Here’s a nutritional breakdown for one serving of this delicious Mediterranean spinach feta cheese, keeping in mind these are estimates:

• Calories: 300
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 5g
• Protein: 10g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used in your Mediterranean spinach feta recipe. For more information on general nutrition, consider resources on healthy grains.

How to Store and Reheat Mediterranean Spinach Feta Cheese

Properly storing and reheating your Mediterranean spinach feta cheese turnovers ensures they stay delicious for days. Once they’ve cooled completely, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. These savory pastries also freeze beautifully! For longer storage, wrap individual turnovers tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. This makes it super easy to enjoy this Mediterranean spinach feta bake whenever a craving strikes. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheating is simple. For best results, warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and the pastry is crisp again. You can also reheat them in an air fryer or toaster oven. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the puff pastry soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mediterranean Spinach Feta Cheese

Can I use different types of cheese in this Mediterranean spinach feta cheese recipe?

Absolutely! While feta is classic for that authentic Mediterranean spinach feta cheese flavor, you can absolutely mix it up. For a creamier texture, I sometimes add a spoonful of ricotta or even a bit of goat cheese. Just keep in mind that other cheeses might be less salty than feta, so you might want to adjust the seasoning a touch.

What can I serve with this Mediterranean spinach feta bake?

These savory pastries are wonderfully versatile! They make a fantastic appetizer on their own, but are also great with a side of Greek salad, a light lemon-herb dressing, or some refreshing tzatziki sauce. They can even stand in as a vegetarian main dish when paired with some roasted vegetables or a hearty grain like barley. This easy Mediterranean spinach feta dish is perfect for any meal.

How do I store leftovers of this spinach feta cheese Mediterranean style dish?

Once cooled, store any leftover Mediterranean spinach feta cheese turnovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They reheat beautifully in a toaster oven or a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes until crispy again. I don’t recommend microwaving them, as it can make the puff pastry lose its lovely crispness.

Variations of Mediterranean Spinach Feta Cheese You Can Try

While this recipe is already fantastic, I love experimenting with different twists on this Mediterranean spinach feta cheese bake. Here are a few ideas to keep things exciting and cater to different tastes or dietary needs. You can adapt this easy Mediterranean spinach feta recipe to suit your preferences!

• Spicy Kick: Amp up the heat by adding a pinch more red pepper flakes or a finely diced jalapeño to the filling. This Mediterranean spinach feta cheese recipe is great with a little spice!
• Vegan Option: Swap the feta for a good quality vegan feta alternative and use a plant-based egg wash (like a mix of plant milk and maple syrup) for the pastry.
• Mini Appetizers: Instead of full-sized turnovers, use mini cookie cutters to create bite-sized spinach feta cheese Mediterranean dip bites, perfect for parties.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to incorporate other Mediterranean-inspired vegetables into the filling, such as finely chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or artichoke hearts.

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