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This spinach and feta filling wrapped in crispy, flaky phyllo dough creates the perfect Mediterranean appetizer that balances rich cheese with earthy greens. The combination transforms simple ingredients into elegant triangles that disappear within minutes whenever I serve them at gatherings.
These crispy treats became my signature dish after learning to make them during a cooking class in Greece. Now my friends specifically request them for dinner parties and I love watching their faces light up with the first crispy bite.
Ingredients
- Fresh spinach: Provides the nutritional foundation and authentic flavor. Choose bright green bunches with no yellowing for best results
- Feta cheese: Creates the signature tangy Mediterranean flavor. Select authentic Greek feta made from sheep milk for traditional taste
- Ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess that balances the feta's saltiness. Full fat version works best for richness
- Garlic: Brings essential aromatic depth. Look for firm bulbs with no sprouting
- Dried dill: Complements the spinach beautifully. Purchase small quantities to ensure freshness
- Ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle warmth that elevates the filling. Freshly grated provides the best flavor
- Phyllo dough: Creates the flaky exterior. Allow proper thawing time in refrigerator overnight
- Unsalted butter: Helps achieve golden perfection. European style butter with higher fat content creates extra flakiness
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Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare The Filling:
- Combine all filling ingredients thoroughly in a mixing bowl using a fork to break up the feta. If using frozen spinach ensure you squeeze out excess moisture completely using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. The mixture should hold together when pressed but not be overly wet.
- Create Phyllo Layers:
- Work quickly with the phyllo to prevent drying. Keep unused sheets covered with a slightly damp kitchen towel while you work. Brush each sheet lightly but completely with melted butter before adding the next layer. Three layers provides the perfect balance of crispness and structure.
- Form Perfect Triangles:
- Cut your layered phyllo into even strips using a sharp knife or pizza cutter. Place a full teaspoon of filling at the bottom corner of each strip. Fold corner over filling diagonally to create a triangle then continue folding up the strip maintaining triangle shape. Tuck any excess phyllo underneath for a neat appearance.
- Achieve Golden Perfection:
- Arrange triangles on parchment with space between each to allow even browning. Brush tops generously with butter and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Bake until deeply golden which indicates proper cooking of both exterior and interior. Listen for a hollow sound when tapped with a fingernail.
My favorite part of this recipe is working with the delicate phyllo dough. After years of practice I find something meditative about the process of brushing each translucent sheet with butter. What began as an intimidating ingredient has become one I look forward to using whenever possible.
Make Ahead Magic
These triangles can be assembled completely then frozen unbaked for up to three months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid then transfer to freezer bags. When ready to serve bake directly from frozen adding about 5 minutes to the cooking time. This makes them perfect for unexpected guests or preparing for large gatherings well in advance.
Flavor Variations
While the classic spinach and feta combination is traditional you can create exciting variations by adjusting the filling. Try adding sautéed mushrooms for earthiness or replace the dill with fresh mint for brightness. For meat lovers incorporating 1/4 cup of cooked ground lamb with warming spices like cinnamon creates a different but equally delicious option that nods to Greek moussaka flavors.
Perfect Pairings
Serve these crisps alongside cooling tzatziki sauce made with Greek yogurt cucumber and fresh dill. For a complete appetizer spread add olives marinated in lemon and herbs plus sliced fresh tomatoes drizzled with olive oil. When entertaining I arrange everything on a large wooden board with fresh herbs scattered throughout for a stunning Mediterranean grazing platter that gets conversations flowing.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out all excess moisture before mixing it with the other filling ingredients.
- → What can I use instead of phyllo dough?
If phyllo dough is unavailable, puff pastry can be an alternative, though the texture will be less crisp and flaky.
- → How do I keep phyllo dough from drying out during preparation?
Keep unused phyllo sheets covered with a slightly damp cloth or plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out while assembling the crisps.
- → Can I make these crisps ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the crisps and freeze them before baking. Bake straight from frozen, adding an extra few minutes to the baking time.
- → What dipping sauces pair well with these crisps?
Tzatziki sauce, hummus, or a light yogurt-based dip work wonderfully with these Mediterranean-inspired crisps.