Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Triangles

🥐 Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Triangles

Description

Crispy, golden puff pastry stuffed with a savory spinach and feta cheese filling — these triangles are a perfect appetizer, snack, or light lunch. Inspired by Greek spanakopita, they’re simple to make with ready-made puff pastry and taste absolutely divine. The creamy, salty feta balances the earthy spinach, while herbs and onion add an aromatic touch.

🧾 Ingredients

Servings: 12 triangles
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

For the Filling

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 cups fresh spinach (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)

• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

• 1/4 cup ricotta or cream cheese (optional, for creamier texture)

• 1 egg (lightly beaten, reserve 1 tbsp for brushing)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 1/2 tsp dried oregano or dill (optional)

For the Pastry

• 1 sheet puff pastry (about 250g), thawed if frozen

• 1 tbsp milk or water (for egg wash, optional)

🍳 Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Cook Filling:
   In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
   Add onion and garlic; sauté until translucent (about 3 minutes).
   Stir in spinach and cook until wilted (or warmed through if using frozen). Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

3. Mix Filling:
   In a bowl, combine the spinach mixture with feta, ricotta (if using), and beaten egg.
   Season with salt, pepper, and oregano/dill. Mix well.

4. Prepare Pastry:
   Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface.
   Cut into 12 equal squares (or rectangles).

5. Assemble Triangles:
   Place 1 tablespoon of filling in the center of each square.
   Fold one corner over to make a triangle. Press edges with a fork to seal.

6. Brush and Bake:
   Brush the tops with beaten egg (or milk) for a golden finish.
   Arrange on the baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes, until puffed and golden brown.

7. Serve:
   Cool for a few minutes before serving. Best enjoyed warm!

📝 Notes

• If using frozen spinach, make sure to squeeze out all excess water to prevent soggy pastry.

• You can substitute feta with goat cheese for a tangier flavor.

• To make ahead, prepare and freeze unbaked triangles; bake from frozen, adding 5 minutes to cook time.

💡 Tips

• For extra crispness, bake on the middle rack with a slight airflow (convection mode if available).

• Add a touch of nutmeg for warmth.

• Serve with a side of tzatziki or yogurt dip for extra flavor.

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven to restore crispness.

🍽️ Servings

Makes 12 triangles, serving 4–6 people as an appetizer or snack.
Perfect for:

• Party platters

• Picnics

• Lunchboxes

• Tea-time snacks

🧠 Nutritional Information (Per Triangle, Approximate)

(Values may vary based on ingredients and portion sizes.)

🌿 Health Benefits

• Spinach: High in iron, calcium, and vitamins A & K — supports bone and eye health.

• Feta Cheese: Provides protein and calcium, with lower fat than many cheeses.

• Olive Oil: Contains healthy monounsaturated fats.

• Balanced Snack: Combines greens, protein, and carbs in one delicious bite.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q1: Can I use phyllo dough instead of puff pastry?
Yes! It will be more like a traditional Greek spanakopita. Just brush each phyllo layer with butter or oil before folding.

Q2: Can I make this vegan?
Absolutely — use vegan puff pastry, replace feta with vegan cheese or tofu, and use flaxseed “egg” (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water).

Q3: How do I prevent the triangles from bursting open?
Don’t overfill, and make sure the edges are sealed tightly with a fork or by brushing with egg wash.

Q4: Can I freeze them?
Yes — freeze unbaked triangles on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen at 400°F for 25–30 minutes.

Q5: What can I serve with them?
Serve with tzatziki, hummus, tomato salsa, or a fresh Greek salad.