Discover a quick, delicious snack with Mediterranean Pinwheels with Spinach and Feta, a vibrant and healthy treat perfect for anytime bites. These flavorful pinwheels combine fresh spinach, tangy feta cheese, and a medley of Mediterranean-inspired ingredients wrapped in soft, tender dough. Whether you need a tasty appetizer, a party crowd-pleaser, or a wholesome snack, this recipe offers a perfect balance of nutrition, texture, and mouthwatering flavors that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple ingredients: Uses common, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find and quick to prepare.
- Flavor-packed: Combines the creamy tang of feta with fresh spinach and zesty herbs that awaken your taste buds.
- Versatile snack: Perfect for parties, lunchboxes, or a light dinner that satisfies without feeling heavy.
- Easy to customize: Can be adapted with different fillings, seasonings, or dough choices to suit your preferences.
- Quick assembly: Requires minimal prep time, making it ideal for busy days or last-minute entertaining.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in Mediterranean Pinwheels with Spinach and Feta plays an essential role in the dish’s flavor, texture, and visual appeal. You’ll find that this combination keeps things simple yet unbelievably tasty.
- Pre-made puff pastry or crescent dough: Provides a flaky, golden base that wraps all the delicious fillings perfectly.
- Fresh spinach: Adds vibrant color and a subtle earthiness to balance the cheese.
- Feta cheese: Offers tangy creaminess that’s the star flavor of the pinwheels.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: Bring a sweet and savory punch that brightens every bite.
- Garlic and herbs: Infuse aromatic Mediterranean notes for enhanced depth.
- Olive oil: Helps keep the dough moist and adds richness to the filling.
- Black pepper: Adds a subtle spice to balance the creamy and salty components.
Variations for Mediterranean Pinwheels with Spinach and Feta
This recipe lends itself beautifully to customization, letting you swap or add ingredients easily for dietary needs or taste preferences.
- Use fresh herbs: Add dill, oregano, or basil for an extra herbal punch.
- Swap cheese: Try goat cheese or ricotta for a milder or creamier flavor profile.
- Make it vegan: Use dairy-free feta and a plant-based dough alternative to suit vegan diets.
- Add nuts: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pine nuts for crunchy texture and nutty notes.
- Include roasted veggies: Toss in roasted red peppers or zucchini for more color and nutrition.
How to Make Mediterranean Pinwheels with Spinach and Feta
Step 1: Prepare the filling
Start by rinsing and finely chopping fresh spinach, then sauté it lightly with garlic and a drizzle of olive oil until wilted. Let it cool before mixing with crumbled feta, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and freshly ground black pepper.
Step 2: Roll out the dough
Unfold or roll out your puff pastry or crescent dough on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle, roughly 12 by 10 inches. This gives you a perfect canvas to spread the filling evenly.
Step 3: Spread the filling
Evenly spread the cooled spinach and feta mixture over the dough, leaving a small border along the edges for sealing when rolled.
Step 4: Roll and slice
Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Then slice the log into 1-inch thick pinwheels to create those signature spirals of filling and dough.
Step 5: Bake until golden
Place the pinwheels on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced slightly apart. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 to 20 minutes until the dough is puffed and beautifully golden brown.
Pro Tips for Making Mediterranean Pinwheels with Spinach and Feta
- Drain spinach well: Excess moisture can make the dough soggy, so squeeze or pat dry thoroughly before mixing.
- Chill the dough: Keep your dough cold before rolling to ensure it stays flaky during baking.
- Use parchment paper: This prevents sticking and makes clean-up faster than greasing your pan.
- Slice pinwheels evenly: Use a sharp knife or dental floss for clean cuts and even baking.
- Brush with olive oil or egg wash: This gives the pinwheels a shiny, appetizing finish once baked.
How to Serve Mediterranean Pinwheels with Spinach and Feta
Garnishes
Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or oregano on top after baking for a burst of color and fresh herbal aroma that complements the Mediterranean flavors.
Side Dishes
Pair these pinwheels with a light Greek salad, a dollop of tzatziki, or a bowl of olives for a well-rounded Mediterranean meal or snack platter.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange pinwheels in a spiral pattern on a large serving tray or stack them in a decorative mason jar to impress guests at parties or picnics.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover Mediterranean Pinwheels with Spinach and Feta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They retain their texture well and taste great even when chilled.
Freezing
You can freeze the uncooked pinwheels on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag once firm. Bake them from frozen by adding extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating
Warm leftovers in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore the crispy exterior and freshen up the filling without drying it out.
FAQs
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh spinach is preferred for this recipe because it offers better texture and flavor. Just make sure to sauté and drain it well to avoid sogginess.
Is Mediterranean Pinwheels with Spinach and Feta suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat or fish, only vegetables, cheese, and dough.
Can I prepare the pinwheels in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the pinwheels ahead of time and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking to save time.
What can I use if I don’t have puff pastry?
Crescent roll dough or even phyllo dough can be used as alternatives, though puff pastry provides the flakiest texture and best rise.
How spicy are these pinwheels?
They are mild but full of flavor. You can add chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper if you want a little heat.
Final Thoughts
Give Mediterranean Pinwheels with Spinach and Feta a try for a snack that scores high on flavor, ease, and wholesome ingredients. They’re fantastic for any occasion, whether a cozy night in or a lively gathering. Once you taste the perfect balance of creamy feta, fresh spinach, and flaky dough, you’ll find yourself making this recipe again and again!