I remember the exact moment Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Twists became a staple in my kitchen. It was one of those hectic weeknights when I needed something quick, satisfying, and flavorful without a lot of fuss. After a few tries, I finally nailed that perfect balance of flaky, buttery puff pastry wrapped around that fresh, tangy spinach and feta filling. From then on, this recipe found a permanent spot in my rotation.
These Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Twists are easy enough to whip up even when you’re pressed for time, but they feel special enough to bring to any gathering. They’re the kind of puff pastry appetizers that make you feel like you’ve done something impressive without any stress. Whether it’s a last-minute snack, a cozy dinner appetizer, or part of a brunch spread, these twists never disappoint.
I love that making Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Twists fits right into my busy life. The ingredients are straightforward, and the steps are doable—even for a busy home cook like me. It’s satisfying to pull golden, flaky twists from the oven and know I made it happen from scratch. Plus, these spinach feta pastries freeze beautifully, which means I always have a spin on them ready to go.
If you’re looking for a savory pastry twist to try, I really encourage you to dive in with this recipe. It’s friendly to beginners and rewarding every time. Let me walk you through the ingredients and step-by-step instructions so you can put this family favorite on your table soon.
What You’ll Need for This Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Twists:
To keep this recipe approachable, the ingredient list is simple and budget-friendly. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 package (about 17 oz) of puff pastry sheets – You can find these in the freezer section of most grocery stores. I usually pick the frozen kind; just thaw before you get started.
- 10 oz fresh spinach – Alternatively, frozen chopped spinach works well too. Just be sure to thaw and squeeze out all excess moisture so your Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Twists don’t get soggy.
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese – You can swap this for goat cheese if you prefer a milder taste. It changes the flavor but keeps the creamy tanginess.
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese – This adds creamy texture and balances the salty feta perfectly.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped – A bit of sweetness to the filling.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Just the right amount to boost flavor without overpowering.
- 1 large egg – One is for the filling and a bit reserved for brushing your puff pastry so your twists get that gorgeous golden color.
- Salt and pepper to taste – You’ll want to keep these light so the feta can shine.
Here’s a practical swap: if you don’t have fresh spinach on hand, frozen spinach is a time saver, and I’ve tested this version dozens of times for the best results. Just make sure it’s well-drained to keep your spinach feta pastries flaky.
This Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Twists recipe is economical because the puff pastry sheets are often on sale and the filling stretches nicely to fill a batch of twists. I usually keep an extra package of puff pastry in the freezer—it’s a fantastic base for many easy puff pastry recipes.
Quick tip before you start: to save time, prepare the filling up to a day ahead. Cook your spinach mixture, mix with the cheeses, and keep it chilled. This makes assembly a breeze when you’re ready.
How to Make This Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Twists:
Let’s get into the kitchen and make these savory pastry twists together. From start to finish, Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Twists usually take about 45 minutes, including prep and baking.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step warms your oven so it’s ready for the buttery puff pastry to crisp just right.
- Prepare the spinach filling. Heat a skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Add your chopped onion and sauté until soft, about 4 minutes. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the spinach. If using fresh, toss it in and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. For frozen, add the thawed and drained spinach, warming through. Let the mixture cool slightly.
- Mix the cheese and egg. In a bowl, combine the crumbled feta, ricotta, and one beaten egg. Add your cooled spinach mixture, then season with a pinch of salt and pepper. This is the heart of your spinach feta pastries — creamy, flavorful, and ready to go.
- Roll out your puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Brush one sheet with a bit of beaten egg—that seal will help your twists stay filled nicely. Spread the spinach and feta filling evenly over the pastry.
- Place the second puff pastry sheet on top. Press gently to seal, then cut the layered sheets into strips about 1 inch wide. Twist each strip a couple of times and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush each twist with beaten egg to encourage a golden, shiny finish.
- Bake in your preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the twists are puffed and golden brown. Your kitchen will smell incredible at this point—the flaky pastry and savory filling coming together is truly satisfying.
Pro tip: While the Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Twists bake, use the time to clean up your prep area or even start setting the table. Once ready, let them sit a few minutes before serving.
If your twists look a bit uneven, don’t worry. That rustic charm is part of their appeal. Just be mindful to twist firmly so the filling doesn’t leak out during baking.
I’ve tried shortcuts, like making mini pinwheels instead, but nothing compares with these savory pastry twists for flavor and texture. Plus, they’re super fun to eat whether fresh or reheated.
Serving Your Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Twists:
This dish truly shines when served warm, fresh from the oven. I like to pair my Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Twists with a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon and olive oil. The fresh, bright salad cuts through the richness of the spinach feta snacks beautifully.
For a heartier meal, they’re fantastic alongside a bowl of soup—something like tomato basil or creamy squash hits just right. These puff pastry appetizers work great for casual get-togethers, potlucks, or even holiday gatherings where you want a little something special but easy.
Presentation is simple. Arrange your twists on a platter with sprigs of fresh herbs like dill or parsley, which adds a pop of color and pairs nicely with the filling. Leftovers are easy too—just reheat in the oven to revive the crispiness.
I also love to try seasonal twists on this recipe. Adding roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes into the filling can add a Mediterranean flair. Some friends suggested swapping feta for fresh mozzarella and basil for a more Italian vibe—delicious!
When I last served these Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Twists at a brunch, they were gone in minutes. The flaky layers and savory filling bring everyone together around the table in no time.
Common Questions About This Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Twists:
Can I make parts of this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can prepare the spinach filling a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Puff pastry is best assembled and baked fresh, but you can also twist and freeze the uncooked pastries to bake later.
What can I substitute for feta cheese?
Goat cheese or ricotta salata offers a similar tangy creaminess. You can even try a mild fresh mozzarella for a different texture. Just know that feta’s saltiness is key to that signature flavor.
How do I adjust this recipe for more or fewer people?
This recipe doubles well. Just add extra filling and puff pastry sheets accordingly. If you want fewer snacks, halve the ingredients—you can freeze the leftover filling.
Can I use frozen puff pastry?
Yes! Just thaw completely in the fridge before rolling out to avoid tearing. Frozen puff pastry is a go-to shortcut for many easy puff pastry recipes.
How do I keep the filling from making the pastry soggy?
Make sure to squeeze excess moisture out of spinach, especially if frozen. Using ricotta helps balance moisture. Also, don’t overload the filling.
Can I add other ingredients to the filling?
Definitely! Some folks add pine nuts or chopped olives for extra texture and flavor. You might want to check out this Feta & Herb Puffs from Persiana Easy ~ Drizzled with a little honey … for a twist on herbs and finishing touches.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store cooked Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Twists in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven for 8-10 minutes to keep them crisp. They don’t freeze well after baking.
If you enjoy these Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Twists, you might love this Baked Feta Pasta with Spinach recipe—it’s creamy, comforting, and shares the same vibrant flavor profile.
Final Thoughts on This Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Twists:
These Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Twists have a special place in my recipe box because they’re such a reliable, crowd-pleasing treat. Their flaky texture and balanced filling make each bite satisfying without being heavy.
My top tips for this recipe:
- Don’t skip squeezing the spinach dry. This is key to avoiding sogginess.
- Brush with egg wash generously. It gives the twists that golden, appetizing shine.
- Make the filling ahead. It saves time and lets flavors meld beautifully.
If you want to mix it up, try these versions:
- Add sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil for a Mediterranean twist.
- Swap in cooked, crumbled sausage for a heartier filling.
- Use fresh herbs like dill and mint for extra brightness.
The classic spinach and feta filling still gets asked for the most. It’s a true family favorite that everyone enjoys.
I hope you find as much joy making these Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Twists as I do. They’re approachable, tasty, and a great way to impress with minimal effort. Give it a try, and make it your own! For more ideas to pair with or follow up your puff pastry appetizers, check out my recipes for Spinach Dip or Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Creamy Spinach Alfredo.
Lastly, if you want to see some inspiration and community love around puff pastry twists, take a peek at this REVIEW RECAP: Member’s Mark Sausage & Spinach Puff Pastry …, and maybe even try Spinach Puffs (Cheesy Feta and Ricotta) – Cooking With Ayeh for a slightly different take.
Happy cooking, friends! Your kitchen is about to smell amazing.
Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Twists
Delightful and crispy puff pastry twists filled with a flavorful blend of spinach and feta, perfect as a savory snack or appetizer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add chopped spinach, cook until wilted, then remove from heat and let cool.
- In a bowl, mix cooled spinach, feta, cream cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface.
- Spread the spinach and feta mixture evenly over half of the pastry, then fold the other half over to cover.
- Cut the pastry into strips about 1 inch wide.
- Twist each strip several times and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush each twist with beaten egg to give a golden finish.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until puffed and golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving warm.
Notes
For a spicy kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes on the filling before folding. These twists also pair wonderfully with a side of tzatziki or marinara sauce.