Simplified Spanakopita with Puff Pastry

While I’m quite comfortable working with traditional phyllo dough, I’ve noticed a strong preference for puff pastry among my community. When surveyed on Instagram, the response was clear: many of you love the ease and versatility of puff pastry. That’s why I’m thrilled to share this amazing spanakopita recipe, reimagined with the convenience of buttery, flaky puff pastry.

Ingredients for Perfect Puff Pastry Spanakopita

Creating delicious spanakopita with puff pastry requires a few simple yet essential ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to gather:

• Olive Oil: The base for sautéing our aromatics and adding a touch of Mediterranean richness.
• Yellow Onion and Garlic: These foundational aromatics build a deep, savory flavor profile for the spinach filling.
• Frozen Chopped Spinach: Thawed and thoroughly squeezed dry. This step is crucial to prevent a watery filling that could make your pastry soggy.
• Fresh Parsley, Cilantro, and Dill: A trio of fresh herbs that brightens the filling. Parsley and dill are traditional, while cilantro adds a unique, zesty twist, though it’s optional.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors in the filling.
• Large Eggs: One egg is mixed into the filling to bind it together, and the other is used as an egg wash for a beautiful golden crust.
• Crumbled Feta Cheese: The quintessential Greek cheese, providing a tangy, salty punch that is characteristic of spanakopita.
• Puff Pastry Sheets: The star ingredient for our easy spanakopita, thawed but still cold for best results.
• Optional: Butter or Oil for Brushing: A little extra fat for greasing the muffin tin ensures your pastries don’t stick and achieve an even crispier bottom.

Ingredient Notes for a Flavorful Filling

While traditional spanakopita often features thin, delicate layers of phyllo dough, this recipe embraces the convenience of puff pastry. The filling, however, remains true to its Greek roots, built around a core of earthy spinach and tangy feta. Key herbs like fresh parsley and dill are vital for that authentic flavor. I’ve also included cilantro in my recipe, a nod to my heritage, as it adds a wonderful, slightly tart dimension. If cilantro isn’t your preference, feel free to omit it. However, I highly recommend keeping the parsley; its fresh, slightly peppery notes are indispensable. Eggs are crucial here, acting as a binder to hold the luscious spinach and feta mixture together, ensuring a coherent and delicious filling in every bite.

How to Make Spanakopita in Puff Pastry: A Simple Guide

This streamlined process makes creating delicious spanakopita puffs a breeze. Follow these steps for flaky, savory perfection:

Preparing the Flavorful Spinach & Feta Filling

1. Begin by preparing your spinach. If using frozen spinach, ensure it’s fully thawed. This is a critical step: you must squeeze out as much excess water as possible. Use your hands, a cheesecloth, or a mesh strainer to firmly press out all moisture. A dry filling is key to preventing a soggy pastry.
2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and fragrant, typically 3-5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until aromatic, being careful not to let it brown or burn.
3. Stir in the well-drained spinach, chopped fresh parsley, cilantro (if desired), dill, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients. Cook the mixture for just 3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
4. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the spinach mixture cool down to room temperature for about 10 minutes. This step is important to prevent the egg from scrambling when added. Once cooled, incorporate one beaten egg and the crumbled feta cheese into the mixture, stirring until well combined.

Assembling & Baking Your Spanakopita Puffs

5. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a mini muffin tin by lightly brushing each cup with melted butter or oil. This optional step helps ensure easy release and an extra crispy bottom.
6. Carefully unroll a sheet of frozen puff pastry onto a clean, lightly floured surface. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the pastry sheet into 12 equal squares. Repeat with the second sheet of puff pastry.
7. Gently press one puff pastry square into the bottom and up the sides of each prepared mini muffin tin cup. Spoon a generous amount of the spinach and feta filling into each pastry-lined cup.
8. Carefully fold the edges of the puff pastry over the filling, encasing it to form a small, neat package or purse. Brush the top of each pastry with the remaining beaten egg wash; this will give them a beautiful golden sheen and help seal the edges.
9. Bake the spanakopita puffs in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden brown, puffed, and flaky. Let them cool slightly in the muffin tin before removing and serving.

Expert Tips for Spanakopita Success

Achieving perfect puff pastry spanakopita is easy with a few key tips:

• Embrace Fresh Herbs: While some herbs can be optional based on preference, fresh parsley is a must for authentic spanakopita flavor. Dill adds a wonderful aromatic touch, and cilantro (if you like it) brings a bright, zesty note. Don’t underestimate the power of fresh herbs to elevate your dish.
• Fresh Spinach Option: If you prefer to use fresh spinach instead of frozen, ensure you cook it down thoroughly. Fresh spinach contains significantly more water, so it must be wilted and then meticulously drained to prevent a watery filling. Squeeze it dry with a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
• Quick & Easy Filling Method: For an even faster preparation, you can skip cooking the onion and garlic and simply mix all the filling ingredients (except the egg for brushing) raw in a large bowl. This method works perfectly, especially if using frozen spinach. However, for those with picky eaters (like my own kids), sautéing the onions slightly softens them, making them more palatable.
• Thawing Puff Pastry: Always thaw your puff pastry according to package directions, typically in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for about 30-40 minutes. It should be pliable but still cold when you work with it; if it gets too warm, it becomes sticky and difficult to handle.
• Don’t Overfill: While it’s tempting to load up on the delicious filling, avoid overfilling your pastry cups. Leave enough room to neatly fold and seal the edges of the puff pastry, ensuring no filling leaks out during baking.
• Generous Egg Wash: A good egg wash (the remaining beaten egg) not only helps seal the pastries but also contributes to that gorgeous golden-brown, shiny crust that makes puff pastry so appealing. Brush it evenly over the tops and any visible pastry edges.

Storing and Reheating Spanakopita Puffs

These spanakopita puffs are just as delightful the next day, making them perfect for meal prep or enjoying leftovers. Proper storage ensures their freshness and flaky texture.

Refrigerate: Any leftover spanakopita should be placed in an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator. They will remain fresh and delicious for 3-4 days.

Freeze: For longer storage, baked spanakopita puffs freeze beautifully. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or plastic bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheat: To reheat, place the spanakopita on a baking tray and warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven until thoroughly heated through and crispy again. If reheating from frozen, there’s no need to thaw them beforehand; simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare Spanakopita in Advance

One of the best features of this puff pastry spanakopita is how easily it can be prepared ahead of time. This makes it an ideal option for entertaining or busy days, allowing you to minimize last-minute stress.

You can fully assemble the spanakopita puffs the night before you plan to serve them. Simply follow all the steps up to the point of baking. Once assembled and brushed with egg wash, cover the muffin tin tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, remove them from the fridge about 15-20 minutes before baking to allow them to come closer to room temperature, then bake according to the recipe instructions until golden brown and flaky. This method ensures you can enjoy freshly baked spanakopita without all the immediate prep work.

Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Your Spanakopita

These delightful spanakopita puffs are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. They make a fantastic side dish or an impressive starter, especially when entertaining guests or celebrating holidays. Here are some of my favorite ways to serve them:

• Classic Dips: The tangy, salty flavor of spanakopita pairs wonderfully with creamy, cool dips. My top recommendation is a refreshing Greek Yogurt Dill sauce, also known as Tzatziki. Other excellent Mediterranean options include smooth Hummus, smoky Baba Ganoush, or a nutty Tahini dip.
• Fresh Salads: To balance the richness of the pastry, serve your spanakopita alongside a crisp, fresh salad. A vibrant Fattoush salad with its crunchy pita bread and zesty dressing, or a hearty Eggplant Salad, would be excellent choices.
• Main Dishes: While perfect as an appetizer, these puffs also complement a variety of main courses. They are particularly fantastic with grilled meats, such as succulent Kebab. The lightness of the spinach pie makes it a great counterpoint to richer proteins.
• Standalone Snack: Honestly, these spanakopita puffs are so incredibly delicious on their own that they don’t always need a companion. They make a fantastic snack or a light lunch.

No matter how you choose to serve them, these flaky, savory pastries are sure to be a hit!

Creative Variations to Explore

While the classic spinach and feta filling is undeniably delicious, puff pastry spanakopita is highly adaptable. Feel free to get creative and experiment with these variations:

• Citrusy Brightness: For an extra layer of tartness and a bright aroma, mix in some finely grated lemon zest with the spinach filling. The citrus beautifully cuts through the richness of the cheese and pastry.
• Creamy Indulgence: Although not traditionally authentic, adding a tablespoon or two of cream cheese to the spinach mixture can create an even creamier, richer filling. This is a great option if you prefer a smoother texture.
• Different Cheeses: Beyond feta, consider blending in other Greek or Mediterranean cheeses. A touch of grated Kefalotyri or Parmesan can add depth, or a mild goat cheese can offer a different creamy texture.
• Add More Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by adding finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or even a handful of finely diced bell peppers to the spinach mixture. Ensure any added vegetables are well-drained of excess moisture.
• Alternative Shapes: Instead of using a muffin tin for individual puffs, you can create other popular shapes. Roll the puff pastry with the filling into a log, then slice it into “pinwheels” before baking for a fun, swirled presentation. You can also cut the pastry into larger squares or rectangles, place a dollop of filling on one side, fold it over into a triangle or rectangle, and seal the edges with a fork before baking.

Whether you stick to the original or try a new twist, these incredible pastries are fantastic on their own. If you happen to have any leftovers, simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and warm them slightly in the oven on a baking sheet the next day for a perfect snack or lunch.

Frequently Asked Questions About Spanakopita

Here are some common questions about making spanakopita, especially with puff pastry:

• Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen? Yes, absolutely! If using fresh spinach, you’ll need a larger quantity (about 1-1.5 lbs for 10 oz frozen). Wash it thoroughly, then wilt it by sautéing or steaming. Crucially, squeeze out as much excess water as possible after cooking to prevent a soggy filling.
• What’s the best way to thaw puff pastry? The ideal method is to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. If you’re short on time, you can thaw it at room temperature for about 30-40 minutes. It should be pliable but still cold. If it becomes too warm and sticky, chill it in the fridge for a few minutes before working with it.
• Can I make these gluten-free? Traditional puff pastry contains gluten. However, there are now several excellent brands of gluten-free puff pastry available in many grocery stores. Using a gluten-free puff pastry will allow you to enjoy this recipe while adhering to dietary restrictions.
• My puff pastry isn’t very puffy, what went wrong? This usually happens if the pastry gets too warm and the butter melts before baking, or if it’s overworked. Ensure your puff pastry is cold when you’re working with it, and handle it minimally to maintain its delicate layers. Also, make sure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature.
• How can I ensure my spanakopita puffs don’t stick to the muffin tin? Always grease your muffin tin cups well with butter or oil, even if they are non-stick. You can also line the cups with parchment paper squares for extra insurance and easier cleanup.

More Delicious Recipes to Try

Related Puff Pastry Delights

If you loved the ease and flakiness of puff pastry in this spanakopita, you’re in for a treat with these other puff pastry recipes:

• Easy Beef Empanadas: These savory empanadas use store-bought dough and a juicy, flavorful ground beef mixture, all baked until flaky, golden, and puffy.
• Irresistible Puff Pastry Chocolate Croissants: Craving a delightful treat with minimal effort? These flaky, buttery layers ooze with warm chocolate, perfect for parties or a quick snack.
• Festive Lemon Raspberry Tarts: A beautiful and easy dessert made with your favorite… puff pastry, combining tart lemon and sweet raspberries.

More Appetizer Ideas for Your Next Gathering

Looking for more crowd-pleasing appetizers to serve alongside your spanakopita puffs? Explore these fantastic options: