Ingredients
Scale
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry (thawed according to package instructions)
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped (or use frozen, thawed and drained)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust based on feta saltiness)
- 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat
Substitution notes: If you prefer, goat cheese or ricotta can replace feta for a creamier texture. For a dairy-free version, omit cheeses and add a bit more garlic and herbs like dill or oregano to punch up the flavor.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step always reminds me of my mom’s knack for turning simple prep into a little ritual that makes cooking feel special.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant—don’t let it burn!
- Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and sauté until just wilted, about 2-3 minutes. If using frozen spinach, make sure it’s squeezed dry before adding to avoid sogginess.
- Remove the skillet from heat and let the spinach cool slightly. Stir in the crumbled feta, Parmesan (if using), salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little kick. This is where all the flavors start to come together, and I often taste a little to see if it needs a pinch more salt or pepper.
- Unfold your puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the sheet into 8 even strips (about 1.5 inches wide).
- Spoon an even amount of the spinach and feta mixture along the center of each strip. Be generous but don’t overstuff—too much filling can make twisting tricky.
- Carefully twist each strip several times, pinching the ends to seal the filling inside. This part always makes me smile because it feels like a little craft project, and my kids love getting involved here.
- Place the twists on your prepared baking sheet. Brush each one with the beaten egg—this gives that golden, glossy finish I always chase in puff pastry recipes.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the twists are puffed up and beautifully golden brown. Your kitchen will smell incredible by this point—something buttery, garlicky, and inviting.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. These are best enjoyed warm but still taste fantastic at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Keywords: Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Twists, recipe, cooking, food
