If you are looking for a delightful appetizer or snack that combines flaky, buttery pastry with a savory spinach and feta filling, then this Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Bites Recipe is an absolute must-try. These little bites deliver a perfect balance of creamy cheese, fresh herbs, and tender spinach wrapped inside golden, crispy puff pastry, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or craving a cozy homemade snack, these easy-to-make puff pastry bites never fail to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients are the secret behind the incredible flavor and texture of this dish. Each component plays a key role—from the butter that adds richness to the blend of cheeses that bring creaminess and tang, while the spinach and parsley keep it fresh and vibrant. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 tablespoons butter: to sauté the onions and spinach, enriching the filling with a smooth, savory base.
- 1 medium onion, diced: adds sweetness and depth of flavor when sautéed.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: for a bright, aromatic punch.
- 1 1/2 cups frozen chopped spinach: thawed and drained to avoid sogginess while giving that classic green goodness and nutrition.
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped: uplifts the filling with fresh herbal notes and a pop of color.
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled: brings the signature salty, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with spinach.
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: adds a nutty sharpness and helps bind the filling together.
- 2 large eggs, divided: one binds the filling ingredients, while the other is used as an egg wash to give the pastry a beautiful golden shine.
- ½ teaspoon salt: to enhance all the flavors perfectly without overpowering.
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: for a mild kick and balance.
- 1 (10×15-inch) sheet puff pastry, thawed: the flaky, buttery casing that makes these bites irresistible.
How to Make Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Bites Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Prepare Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Generously grease a 12-cup muffin pan with cooking spray or butter to ensure the puff pastries don’t stick and get that perfectly crisp bottom crust.
Step 2: Thaw and Drain the Spinach
Make sure your frozen spinach is completely thawed beforehand. Then squeeze out as much moisture as possible using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to keep your filling wonderfully creamy but never soggy.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics and Spinach
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium-high heat until bubbly. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and drained spinach. Cook, stirring occasionally, until most of the moisture evaporates and the onions soften, about 3 to 5 minutes. Set this mixture aside to cool for a few minutes before assembling the filling.
Step 4: Combine Filling Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the cooled spinach mixture with chopped parsley, crumbled feta, grated Parmesan, one egg, salt, and pepper. Stir well until the filling comes together evenly. Pop it into the fridge to chill for about 10 minutes—it helps the flavors meld and makes filling the pastry easier.
Step 5: Cut the Puff Pastry
Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out your thawed puff pastry sheet. Cut it into 12 equal rectangles, roughly 3 by 4 inches each, by making three vertical and two horizontal cuts. This size fits perfectly for the muffin pan cups and ensures even baking.
Step 6: Assemble Your Bites
Press each pastry rectangle gently into the muffin pan cups, forming little cups. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the chilled filling into each one. Then, bring the four corners of the pastry together slightly over the filling and pinch them gently, leaving some filling peek-a-booing in the center. This rustic fold will make the presentation charming and allow that savory filling to shine.
Step 7: Brush with Egg Wash
Beat the remaining egg lightly and brush it over each pastry pocket to give them a brilliant golden color once baked. This extra step transforms these bites from homemade to something that looks like it belongs in a fancy bakery.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Pop the muffin pan into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the puff pastry is beautifully puffed and golden brown on top. Your kitchen will fill with an incredible aroma that’ll be impossible to resist.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Let the bites cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before carefully loosening them with a silicone spatula or knife. Serve warm or at room temperature for a perfect appetizer or snack.
How to Serve Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Bites Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra finely chopped fresh parsley or a few flakes of Parmesan right before serving adds a beautiful fresh touch and a bit of color contrast to these savory bites.
Side Dishes
These puff pastry bites pair wonderfully with a simple mixed green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or a light tomato soup for a cozy meal that balances richness with freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
For entertaining, serve the Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Bites Recipe on a wooden charcuterie board alongside olives, roasted nuts, and a variety of dipping sauces like tzatziki or a creamy herb dip to make the appetizer spread truly inviting and colorful.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover puff pastry bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep them covered to maintain their moisture, although they might soften slightly over time.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these bites later, freeze them uncooked on a baking sheet first to prevent sticking, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. When ready, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
Reheat leftover or baked frozen bites in a preheated oven at 350°F for 8 to 10 minutes to restore their flakiness and crisp exterior. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess and loss of texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Just be sure to sauté and drain fresh spinach thoroughly to remove excess moisture so your filling doesn’t become watery.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
This recipe is already vegetarian since it contains no meat. Just ensure your puff pastry is free from animal fats if you want it fully vegetarian-friendly.
Can I make these vegan?
You’d need to substitute the cheeses with vegan alternatives and use a plant-based butter and egg replacer for the wash. The spinach filling can be adapted by using tofu or cashew cream to replicate the creaminess.
What can I use instead of puff pastry?
Puff pastry is key for that flaky, buttery texture, but for a different twist, you might try phyllo dough, though it requires more layering and delicate handling.
How do I prevent the pastry from getting soggy?
Removing excess moisture from the spinach and making sure you sauté until most liquid evaporates are crucial steps. Also, chilling the filling before assembling helps keep things firm.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly satisfying about biting into a warm, flaky pastry filled with savory spinach and salty feta. This Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Bites Recipe brings a touch of elegance and comfort all in one easy, crowd-pleasing package. I can’t wait for you to try it and share the joy with friends and family—trust me, they’ll be asking for the recipe!
Print
Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Bites Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 bites
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Spinach Puff Pastry Bites are a delightful and savory appetizer perfect for parties or a light snack. Made with flaky puff pastry filled with a flavorful mixture of sautéed spinach, onions, garlic, fresh parsley, feta, and Parmesan cheeses, they are baked to golden perfection for a crispy, cheesy treat that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
Filling
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups frozen chopped spinach (about 10 ounces), thawed and drained
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper (or to taste)
Puff Pastry and Topping
- 1 (10×15-inch) sheet puff pastry, thawed if frozen
- 1 large egg (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Generously grease a 12-cup muffin pan with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking, and set it aside.
- Drain Spinach: Make sure the spinach is fully thawed. Using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels, squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the spinach to prevent sogginess.
- Sauté Vegetables and Spinach: In a large saucepan, heat the butter over medium-high heat until bubbly. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and drained spinach. Sauté for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most of the moisture has evaporated. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
- Mix Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed spinach mixture with chopped parsley, crumbled feta cheese, grated Parmesan, one egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until evenly combined. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 10 minutes to firm up slightly.
- Cut Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, lay out the thawed puff pastry sheet. Cut it into 12 equal rectangles, about 3 by 4 inches each, by making 3 vertical cuts and 2 horizontal cuts.
- Assemble Pastry Bites: Press one puff pastry rectangle into each cup of the prepared muffin pan. Spoon approximately 2 tablespoons of the spinach filling into each pastry cup. Fold the four corners of each rectangle gently toward the center and pinch lightly together, leaving some filling visible.
- Apply Egg Wash: Beat the remaining egg in a small bowl with a fork. Using a pastry brush, brush the egg wash evenly over the top of each puff pastry bite to achieve a glossy, golden finish when baked.
- Bake: Place the muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the pastry puffs up and turns golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the pastries cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Carefully loosen each puff pastry bite with a silicone spatula or knife, then remove from the pan. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Be sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the spinach to avoid soggy pastry.
- Chilling the filling helps it firm up, making it easier to handle when assembling.
- Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter for easy puff pastry cutting.
- You can substitute fresh spinach (blanched and squeezed dry) if preferred.
- These bites are best eaten on the day they are made but can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated in the oven.
