Spanakopita Rolls
A delectable blend of spinach and goat cheese, all wrapped within a flaky phyllo pastry crust. Your taste buds are in for a treat that will warm your heart and satisfy your deepest cravings. Whether you’re seeking a cozy night in or crowd-pleasing spanakopita rolls appetizers for your next gathering, these rolls have got you covered.
Spanakopita is a classic Greek pastry that is loved for its delicious blend of flavors and textures. This savory pie is made with layers of flaky phyllo dough, filled with a rich mixture of spinach, feta cheese, onions, and fresh herbs such as dill and parsley. The combination of creamy cheese and earthy spinach, all wrapped in crispy, golden-brown phyllo, makes spanakopita a truly irresistible dish. Traditionally served as a main course or appetizer, spanakopita is a staple in Greek cuisine and is often enjoyed during special occasions and festive celebrations.
For a delightful twist on the traditional spanakopita, try making Spanakopita Rolls. These individual-sized rolls are similar to spring rolls but are filled with the classic spanakopita mixture. Spanakopita rolls offer the same delicious taste as the traditional pie but in a convenient, easy-to-eat form, making them an ideal choice for appetizers, snacks, or even a light meal. They’re sure to be a hit with guests, providing a taste of Greece in every crunchy bite!
Why are these the best spanakopita rolls?
- At the heart of these delectable delights lies the irresistible combination of spinach and goat cheese. The marriage of these two ingredients creates a symphony of flavors that is simply unmatched.
- But it’s not just the flavors that make these spanakopita rolls stand out. The texture also plays a crucial role in their appeal. With every bite, you’ll experience a perfect balance between the crispiness of the golden phyllo pastry and the gooey, melty cheese filling.
- Furthermore, the warm and cheesy filling is incredibly flavorful but also comforting and satisfying. As you bite, the warmth spreads through your mouth, providing a cozy feeling that is hard to resist.
- But what truly sets these spanakopita rolls apart is the attention to detail and craftsmanship that goes into making them. Each roll is carefully assembled, ensuring that every bite is filled with the perfect amount of spinach and cheese goodness. The flavors are layered and balanced, creating a culinary masterpiece that is bound to impress even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients and substitutes
- First and foremost, the star of the show is spinach. Fresh spinach works best in this recipe. But if it’s not available, you can also opt for frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before incorporating it into the filling. Additionally, if you’re looking to add a twist to the traditional recipe, you can experiment with other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard.
- Another crucial ingredient is cheese. Classic spanakopita uses feta cheese. Its distinct flavor and crumbly texture perfectly complement the spinach. However, if you’re not a fan of feta or want to try something different, you can substitute it with ricotta cheese or cottage cheese. Both alternatives will provide a creamy and slightly milder taste to the rolls. I love the flavor and creaminess of goat cheese.
- A generous amount of melted butter is essential to add an extra layer of indulgence. It not only enhances the richness of the filling but also helps achieve a golden and crispy crust. And if you want a healthier option, use olive oil instead of butter. The flavor profile will change slightly, but the result will still be delicious.
- Lastly, seasoning is crucial in bringing all the flavors together. Traditional spanakopita rolls often include dill, nutmeg, and black pepper. However, you can personalize the seasonings to suit your taste preferences. Add garlic powder, onion powder, or even some red pepper flakes to give the rolls a subtle kick.
Step-by-step: Spinach and goat cheese spanakopita rolls
- Oven – Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Sauté – In a large skillet, over medium heat, add the oil and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant. Then, add the spinach leaves and cook the spinach until it wilts. Season with salt and pepper. Then, remove it from the heat and let it cool until barely warm.
Pro tip – Make sure to evaporate excess moisture from the pan so the phyllo does not become soggy.
- Phyllo – Place the sheets of phyllo dough on a clean work surface and divide them into 6 x 6-inch squares. Brush the sheets with melted butter and stack 2 to 4 layers.
- Filling – Spread the spinach filling over the top layer of phyllo dough, leaving a 2-inch border on all sides. Then, add some goat cheese and grated cheese over the spinach filling.
- Shape – Roll the phyllo around the filling, folding the edges inside as you go. Place the rolls onto the prepared baking sheet and brush them with more melted butter.
- Bake the spanakopita rolls for 20-25 minutes or until the phyllo dough is golden brown and crispy. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Goat cheese spinach strudel
- Spinach Potato Patties
- Savory Strudel with Spinach and Goat Cheese
- Indian Goat Curry Recipe
- Phyllo Filo
Frequently asked questions
Absolutely! Spanakopita rolls can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before baking. Simply assemble the rolls as directed up to the point of baking, then cover them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just pop them in the oven and bake according to the recipe instructions.
While feta cheese is traditional for spanakopita rolls, you can certainly experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste. Some alternatives to feta include ricotta, goat cheese, or even a combination of different cheeses. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly, but feel free to get creative and find the cheese that you enjoy the most.
If you’re unable to find phyllo dough, you can try making your own using a homemade dough recipe or look for alternative options. Some possible substitutes for phyllo dough include puff pastry or even tortilla wraps. While the texture and taste may differ from traditional spanakopita rolls, these alternatives can create a delicious dish with a unique twist.
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftover spanakopita rolls, resist the temptation to microwave them. Instead, reheat them in a preheated oven for a few minutes. This method will ensure that they are warmed through, and the exterior becomes crispy again, just like when they were freshly baked.
Spinach Goat Cheese Spanakopita Rolls
A delectable blend of spinach and goat cheese, all wrapped within a flaky phyllo pastry crust. Your taste buds are in for a treat that will warm your heart and satisfy your deepest cravings. Whether you're seeking a cozy night in or crowd-pleasing spanakopita rolls appetizers for your next gathering, these rolls have got you covered.
Video
Ingredients
- 1 lbs (450 g) Spinach leaves
- 1 small Spanish red onion
- 1 small Garlic clove sliced
- ¼ tsp Kosher salt
- ½ tsp Black pepper powder
- 8 oz (226 g) Goat cheese or feta, cream cheese, or similar.
- ½ cup (55 g) White cheese grated
- 8 sheets Phyllo pastry
- 4 tbsp (60 g) Melted butter
Method
- Oven – Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Sauté – In a large skillet, over medium heat, add the oil and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant. Then, add the spinach leaves and cook the spinach until it wilts. Season with salt and pepper. Then, remove it from the heat and let it cool until barely warm.1 small Spanish red onion, 1 small Garlic clove, ¼ tsp Kosher salt, ½ tsp Black pepper powder, 1 lbs Spinach leaves
- Phyllo – Place the sheets of phyllo dough on a clean work surface and divide them so you have 6 x 6-inch square sheets. Brush the sheets with melted butter and stack 2 to 4 layers.8 sheets Phyllo pastry, 4 tbsp Melted butter
- Filling – Spread the spinach filling over the top layer of phyllo dough, leaving a 2-inch border on all sides. Then, add some goat cheese and grated cheese over the spinach filling.8 oz Goat cheese
- Shape – Roll the phyllo around the filling, folding the edges inside as you go. Place the rolls onto the prepared baking sheet and brush them with more melted butter.
- Bake the spanakopita rolls for 20-25 minutes or until the phyllo dough is golden brown and crispy. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- When it comes to serving spanakopita rolls, they are a versatile option that can be enjoyed in various ways. One popular way is to serve them as appetizers or finger food at parties or gatherings. Simply arrange the rolls on a platter, and watch as your guests eagerly reach for these tasty bites. The crispy golden exterior filled with the creamy spinach and feta filling will surely be a hit.
- If you want to turn your spanakopita rolls into a complete meal, consider serving them alongside a fresh salad or a refreshing tzatziki sauce. The cool and tangy flavors of the tzatziki perfectly complement the warm and cheesy rolls, creating a balanced and satisfying dish. Alternatively, you can serve them as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish for a Mediterranean-inspired feast.
- Now, let’s talk about storing your leftover spanakopita rolls. While they are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, you can still preserve their taste and texture for later enjoyment. To keep them fresh, place any leftover rolls in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. This will help maintain their crispiness and prevent them from drying out.
- When you’re ready to enjoy your leftover spanakopita rolls, resist the temptation to microwave them. Instead, reheat them in a preheated oven for a few minutes. This method will ensure they are warmed through, and the exterior becomes crispy again, just like freshly baked.
- One way to level up your spanakopita rolls is by incorporating different types of cheese. While feta cheese is the classic choice for this Greek dish, consider adding some grated Parmesan or crumbled goat cheese to the filling. This will enhance the creaminess and also add a unique tanginess to each bite. Don’t be afraid to get creative with the cheese combinations and mix and match according to your taste preferences.
- Another way to elevate your comfort food game is by adding a touch of protein to the recipe. For a heartier version, consider including cooked and crumbled bacon or diced cooked chicken in the spinach mixture. The addition of protein will make the rolls more satiating and also lend an extra layer of flavor to the overall dish.
- If you’re feeling adventurous, you can experiment with different fillings altogether. While spinach is the traditional choice, why not use other leafy greens like Swiss chard or kale? These alternatives will bring a slightly different taste profile and texture to your spanakopita rolls, offering a refreshing twist to this classic comfort food.
- Additionally, add some extra veggies to your spanakopita rolls for freshness and texture. Finely chopped red bell peppers, sautéed mushrooms, or even thinly sliced zucchini can all be delicious additions to the filling. Not only will this provide a burst of color, but it will also contribute to a more well-rounded and nutritious dish.
Nutrition
Tried this recipe?
Mention @veenaazmanov_kitchen or tag #veenaazmanovkitchen!Did you LIKE this recipe? Save it for later on Pinterest.
Follow on YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or TikTok
Subscribe to receive new recipes right to your inbox.
The filling was excellent and I love that crunch on the outside. So yummy! These things are addictive!
I love spanakopita and these rolls were simply delicious plus easy to make1 You nailed this recipe, Veena. Thank you!
These spanakopita rolls are going on the menu for football season! These are the perfect hand-held food for cheering on my favorite team. So easy to make and full of so much flavor!
I have not heard of spanakopita rolls before, but they sound delicious! I need to give them a try! Thanks for the recipe share!
These look really good and I can’t wait to try them. What do you use for the “white cheese”? Does this mean parmesan, mozzarella, asiago…can I use any of these?
First time making spanakopita and am sure glad I tried it! These were so good, and easier to make than I had always thought. The goat cheese and spinach combo was tasty and I think I will try the same way again, but with feta too.