Spinach and Cheese Phyllo Pastry Rolls

Spinach and Cheese Phyllo Pastry Rolls

These crispy, golden rolls are filled with a creamy spinach and cheese mixture wrapped in delicate phyllo pastry. Light, flaky, and packed with flavor, they’re perfect served warm or at room temperature.

📋 Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 5 cups fresh spinach (or 1 pack frozen, thawed and squeezed dry)
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
• ½ cup ricotta or cream cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 8 sheets phyllo pastry
• ¼ cup melted butter or olive oil (for brushing)

👩‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté onion until soft (3–4 minutes), then add garlic and cook another 1 minute.
3. Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted (or stir in thawed spinach). Remove from heat and cool slightly.
4. In a bowl, mix spinach mixture with feta, ricotta (or cream cheese), Parmesan, egg, salt, and pepper.
5. Lay 1 sheet of phyllo pastry on a clean surface. Brush lightly with melted butter or olive oil. Layer with a second sheet and repeat.
6. Cut the double-layered sheet in half lengthwise to make two strips.
7. Place a heaping tablespoon of filling at one end of each strip and roll up like a cigar or fold like a triangle. Seal the edge with a bit of butter/oil.
8. Place rolls seam-side down on the baking tray. Repeat with remaining sheets and filling.
9. Brush tops with butter/oil and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
10. Let cool slightly before serving.

📝 Notes:

• If using frozen spinach, make sure to squeeze out all excess water to prevent soggy filling.
• Keep phyllo pastry covered with a damp towel while working to prevent drying out.
• Ricotta adds creaminess; cream cheese gives a richer texture.

💡 Tips:

• Add a pinch of nutmeg to the spinach mix for a subtle flavor boost.
• Serve with a yogurt dip or tzatziki for a refreshing contrast.
• Want a heartier version? Mix in a little cooked, crumbled chicken or turkey.
• Use mini phyllo cups instead of sheets for a bite-sized appetizer version.

🍽️ Servings:

• Makes 16 small rolls (about 8–10 servings as an appetizer or side)

⚖️ Nutritional Info (Per Roll, Approximate):

• Calories: 100
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 7g
• Carbs: 6g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Sugar: 0.5g
• Sodium: ~150mg

(Values vary depending on cheese type and butter used)

🌟 Benefits:

• A great way to sneak in greens
• Provides calcium and protein from cheese
• Vegetarian-friendly
• Light yet filling – perfect for snacks, starters, or brunch
• Can be prepped ahead and frozen before baking

❓ Q/A:

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble and freeze before baking. Bake straight from frozen at 375°F for about 30 minutes.

Q: Can I reheat leftovers?
A: Absolutely! Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350°F for 5–7 minutes until crisp.

Q: Can I use puff pastry instead?
A: You can, but it will be richer and less flaky. Adjust baking time to 20–22 minutes.

Q: Are these good for kids?
A: Yes! They’re mild in flavor and packed with nutrients—great for lunchboxes or after-school snacks.