Mediterranean Spinach Feta Cheese Crisps Recipe is truly a culinary delight that I am incredibly excited to share with you today. Imagine a golden, crispy shell giving way to a warm, savory filling of vibrant spinach and tangy feta – a perfect symphony of textures and flavors in every bite.
A Bite of Mediterranean Sunshine in Every Crisp!
This isn’t just another snack; it’s a little piece of Mediterranean sunshine, reminiscent of beloved Greek spanakopita but in a wonderfully approachable, crisp format. Drawing inspiration from the rich culinary traditions of the Mediterranean, these crisps embody the wholesome goodness and vibrant flavors that have charmed palates for centuries. I find that people absolutely adore this dish for so many reasons. The unique combination of earthy spinach with the briny, salty punch of feta cheese, all wrapped in a deliciously flaky pastry, creates an irresistible appeal.
Whether you’re hosting a sophisticated dinner party, looking for an impressive yet easy appetizer, or simply craving a flavorful treat for yourself, these crisps hit all the right notes. They offer the satisfying crunch of a crisp combined with the heartwarming, wholesome goodness that defines so much of Mediterranean cuisine. The ease of preparation, coupled with their universally loved taste, makes our Mediterranean Spinach Feta Cheese Crisps Recipe a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a staple in my kitchen. Get ready to impress your taste buds and transport them straight to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean!
Ingredients:
Before we dive into creating these delightful Mediterranean Spinach Feta Cheese Crisps, let’s gather all our components. Fresh, quality ingredients truly make all the difference in achieving that authentic, vibrant flavor profile we’re aiming for. Think of these as the building blocks for a truly spectacular appetizer or snack!
- For the Crisp Dough:
- 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting. I usually opt for unbleached for a slightly better texture.
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt. This is crucial for flavor, don’t skimp!
- 1 teaspoon baking powder. This gives our crisps a lovely, subtle lift and ensures they become wonderfully flaky.
- 1/2 cup (120ml) extra virgin olive oil, plus more for brushing. Choose a good quality one, as its flavor will shine through.
- 3/4 to 1 cup (180-240ml) warm water (about 100-110°F or 38-43°C). The exact amount can vary slightly depending on your flour and humidity, so add gradually.
- For the Savory Spinach and Feta Filling:
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil.
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped. Sweet onions work beautifully here too.
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced. Adjust to your preference; I love a lot of garlic!
- 1.5 lbs (about 680g) fresh spinach, thoroughly washed and tough stems removed. You’ll be amazed how much it cooks down.
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt, or to taste. Remember feta is salty, so taste before adding too much.
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg. This is a secret weapon in many Mediterranean spinach dishes, enhancing the flavor of the greens beautifully.
- 8 oz (225g) feta cheese, crumbled. I prefer a block of feta in brine that I can crumble myself for superior flavor and texture.
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, finely chopped. Dill adds that quintessential Mediterranean freshness.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped. Flat-leaf parsley is my go-to.
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten (optional, but helps bind the filling slightly).
- For the Egg Wash & Topping:
- 1 large egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon water or milk. This gives our crisps a beautiful golden sheen.
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds. Light or dark, your choice!
- 1 tablespoon nigella seeds (also known as black cumin seeds, kalonji). These add a unique, slightly oniony, peppery flavor and a lovely visual appeal.
Preparing the Dough for Your Crisps
Crafting the perfect dough for these Mediterranean Spinach Feta Cheese Crisps is a delightful process that lays the foundation for their wonderful crispiness. We’re aiming for a pliable, smooth dough that can be rolled out incredibly thin without tearing, giving us that satisfying crunch in every bite.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, measure out your 3 cups of all-purpose flour. Add the 1 teaspoon of fine sea salt and 1 teaspoon of baking powder. Using a whisk, gently combine these dry ingredients. Make sure they are thoroughly incorporated; this ensures even distribution of the salt and leavening agent throughout our dough. Don’t rush this step, as proper mixing here is key to a consistent texture.
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Add Olive Oil: Create a well in the center of your dry ingredients. Pour in the 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil. Using your fingertips, or a pastry blender, begin to work the olive oil into the flour mixture. You want to rub the oil into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, almost like wet sand. This process coats the flour particles with oil, which is essential for creating a tender and flaky dough.
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Gradually Incorporate Warm Water: Now, it’s time to bring our dough together. Gradually add the warm water, starting with 3/4 cup, mixing it into the flour and oil mixture. I like to use a wooden spoon or my hands for this. Continue to mix until a shaggy dough forms. If the dough still seems too dry and isn’t coming together, add the remaining 1/4 cup of water, a tablespoon at a time, until all the flour is incorporated and you have a cohesive ball of dough. Be careful not to add too much water too quickly, as this can make your dough sticky and difficult to work with later. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
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Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Now comes the kneading! Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes. The goal here is to develop the gluten, which will give our crisps structure and elasticity, allowing us to roll them very thin without them tearing. You’ll notice the dough transforming from a somewhat rough texture to a smooth, elastic, and homogenous ball. It should feel supple and bounce back slightly when poked. This is a crucial step for achieving that signature crispiness, so really take your time and enjoy the tactile experience!
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Rest the Dough: Once your dough is beautifully smooth, lightly brush it with a little extra olive oil to prevent it from drying out. Place it back into the bowl, cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. Even better, let it rest for an hour. This resting period allows the gluten to relax, making the dough much easier to roll out thinly. It’s like giving the dough a little spa treatment before it performs its magic.
Crafting the Savory Filling
The heart and soul of our Mediterranean Spinach Feta Cheese Crisps lie in this incredibly flavorful, aromatic filling. It’s a delightful combination of earthy spinach, tangy feta, and fresh herbs, all seasoned perfectly to tantalize your taste buds.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the finely chopped yellow onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft and translucent. We want to coax out all that lovely sweetness from the onion. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
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Wilt the Spinach: Now, it’s time for the star of the show – the spinach! Add the fresh spinach to the skillet in batches if your pan isn’t large enough to hold it all at once. It will seem like an enormous amount, but spinach wilts down significantly. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until all the spinach has wilted and released its liquid. This usually takes about 5-8 minutes.
Important Tip: Squeezing Excess Water
Once the spinach is wilted, transfer it to a colander. Allow it to cool slightly so you can handle it. This is a critical step: you must squeeze out as much excess liquid as possible from the spinach. Using your hands, a clean kitchen towel, or even the back of a spoon against the colander, press firmly to extract every drop of water. Excess moisture in the filling will make your crisps soggy, so don’t skip this! You should end up with a fairly dry, compact ball of cooked spinach.
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Combine Filling Ingredients: In a medium bowl, crumble your feta cheese. Add the thoroughly squeezed spinach, making sure to break up any large clumps. Stir in the finely chopped fresh dill and parsley. Add the 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and the crucial 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg. If you’re using it, add the lightly beaten egg now. Gently mix all the ingredients until they are well combined.
Taste and Adjust Seasoning
This is your moment to taste the filling! Since feta can vary in saltiness, taste a small spoonful and adjust the salt, pepper, or even add a little more dill or parsley if you feel it needs it. The flavors should be vibrant and well-balanced.
Assembling Your Mediterranean Spinach Feta Cheese Crisps
This is where our beautiful dough and flavorful filling come together to create the irresistible Mediterranean Spinach Feta Cheese Crisps. Patience and a light hand are key to achieving perfectly thin and crispy results.
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Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
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Divide and Roll the Dough: Turn the rested dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into two equal portions. Take one portion and lightly flour your rolling pin. Roll out the dough into a very thin rectangle, approximately 1/16 to 1/8 inch thick (about 1-2mm). The thinner you can get it without tearing, the crispier your crisps will be. Aim for a rectangle about 12×18 inches, or as close as you can get. If the dough springs back, cover it and let it rest for another 5-10 minutes before continuing to roll.
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Spread the Filling: Evenly spread half of the spinach and feta filling over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border (about 1/2 inch) around the edges. Ensure the filling is spread thinly and evenly; thick patches of filling can make the crisps cook unevenly or become soggy.
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Shape the Crisps: Now for the creative part! There are a few ways you can shape these, but I find simple rectangles or squares work best for even baking and crispness. Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, trim the edges to make a neat rectangle. Then, cut the large rectangle into smaller individual crisps. You can make them about 2×3 inches for bite-sized snacks, or larger 3×4 inch rectangles. The specific size is up to your preference, but consistency helps with even baking.
Alternative Shaping: Triangles or Pinwheels
If you’re feeling adventurous, you could gently roll the dough into a log after spreading the filling, then slice it into pinwheels. Or, cut the dough into larger squares, place a dollop of filling in the center, and fold diagonally to create triangles, sealing the edges firmly.
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Transfer to Baking Sheets: Carefully transfer the shaped crisps to your prepared baking sheets, leaving a little space between each one to allow for even air circulation. Repeat the rolling, filling, and shaping process with the second portion of dough and the remaining filling.
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Apply Egg Wash and Toppings: In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining large egg with 1 tablespoon of water or milk to create your egg wash. Lightly brush the tops of all the crisps with this egg wash. This will give them a beautiful golden-brown color and a lovely shine. Immediately sprinkle generously with the sesame seeds and nigella seeds. The seeds not only add visual appeal but also a wonderful nutty, slightly peppery crunch that truly elevates the Mediterranean Spinach Feta Cheese Crisps.
Baking to Golden Perfection
The baking process is where our Mediterranean Spinach Feta Cheese Crisps transform from humble dough and filling into golden, crispy, and utterly irresistible treats. Getting the timing and temperature right is crucial for achieving that perfect crunch.
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Bake in Preheated Oven: Carefully place the baking sheets into your preheated 375°F (190°C) oven. If you have two sheets, it’s best to place them on separate racks, ensuring there’s enough space for heat circulation. If your oven tends to have hot spots, you might want to rotate the baking sheets halfway through the baking time.
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Monitor and Bake: Bake the crisps for 18-25 minutes. The exact time will depend on your oven, the thickness of your dough, and the desired level of crispness. Keep a close eye on them, especially after the 15-minute mark. You are looking for a beautiful, deep golden-brown color on the edges and across the top. The dough should look visibly crispy, not soft or pale. Don’t be afraid to let them get truly golden brown; that’s where the best flavor and texture reside for these Mediterranean Spinach Feta Cheese Crisps.
Signs of Doneness
The crisps should feel firm to the touch, and the edges will be beautifully caramelized. If they still feel soft in the middle, they need a few more minutes. If some are browning faster than others, you can remove the done ones and continue baking the rest.
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Cool on a Wire Rack: Once baked to golden perfection, carefully remove the baking sheets from the oven. Using a spatula, transfer the Mediterranean Spinach Feta Cheese Crisps to a wire cooling rack. This allows air to circulate around them, preventing them from becoming soggy on the bottom and ensuring they stay wonderfully crisp as they cool. Resist the urge to stack them immediately, as this can trap steam and soften them.
Serving and Enjoying Your Crisps
Now for the best part – enjoying the fruits of your labor! These Mediterranean Spinach Feta Cheese Crisps are incredibly versatile and delicious, perfect for any occasion.
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Serve Warm or at Room Temperature: While these crisps are absolutely divine served warm, fresh out of the oven, they are equally delicious at room temperature. The flavors meld beautifully as they cool, making them an excellent make-ahead option for parties or picnics. Allow them to cool for at least 10-15 minutes on the wire rack before serving to allow the filling to set and the crisps to achieve their ultimate crispness.
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Serving Suggestions: These delightful crisps are fantastic on their own as a savory snack or appetizer. They also pair wonderfully with a variety of dips, such as a cool tzatziki, a creamy hummus, or a spicy feta dip. You could also serve them alongside a fresh Greek salad for a light meal, or as part of a larger mezze platter with olives, dolmades, and roasted red peppers. They are particularly excellent with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top, which brightens all the flavors.
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Storage Tips: If by some miracle you have any leftover Mediterranean Spinach Feta Cheese Crisps (it rarely happens in my house!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. To revive their crispness, you can briefly reheat them in a toaster oven or a regular oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes, until they are warm and crispy again. I do not recommend freezing them once baked, as the texture can suffer.
I genuinely hope you enjoy making and devouring these Mediterranean Spinach Feta Cheese Crisps as much as I do. They’re a fantastic way to bring the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean right into your kitchen!
Conclusion:
Well, my friends, we’ve reached the end of our culinary journey with what I truly believe is one of the most delightful and versatile treats you can add to your repertoire. I’m talking, of course, about the incredible Mediterranean Spinach Feta Cheese Crisps. This isn’t just another snack; it’s a testament to how simple ingredients, when brought together with a little love and care, can create something truly spectacular. From the moment you take that first bite, you’ll understand why I’m so passionate about this recipe. The satisfying crunch of the exterior, giving way to the warm, savory, and slightly tangy embrace of the spinach and feta filling, is an experience that truly sings on the palate. It’s light yet incredibly flavorful, satisfying without being heavy, and utterly addictive in the best possible way. I promise you, once you try making these, they’ll become a beloved staple in your kitchen, perfect for so many occasions.
One of the aspects I adore most about these crisps is their incredible adaptability and the sheer joy they bring to any table. Thinking about serving them? Oh, the possibilities are endless! For a casual gathering or a sophisticated appetizer spread, they absolutely shine on their own, perhaps with a vibrant sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley for a pop of color and extra herbaceousness. However, if you’re looking to elevate the experience, consider pairing them with a cooling, creamy tzatziki dip – the cucumber and yogurt provide a wonderful counterpoint to the rich feta. A robust red pepper hummus or a simple marinara sauce also make fantastic companions, adding another layer of flavor and moisture that complements the crisp texture beautifully. For a light lunch, these crisps transform into the star of the show when accompanied by a fresh, crisp Greek salad, drizzled with a bright lemon-herb vinaigrette. Imagine a sunny afternoon, a plate of these golden crisps, and a refreshing salad – pure bliss! They also make an unexpected yet brilliant addition to a weekend brunch spread, offering a savory alternative to sweeter pastries. Don’t forget, they’re fantastic cold too, making them an ideal candidate for lunchboxes or a quick grab-and-go snack during a busy workday.
And let’s talk about variations, because while the classic recipe is divine, part of the fun in cooking is making it truly your own! Want to introduce more vegetables? Go for it! Finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes can add a concentrated burst of sweetness and umami, while a handful of pitted, chopped Kalamata olives will deepen the Mediterranean profile with their briny kick. Artichoke hearts, either finely chopped or pureed slightly, also blend seamlessly into the spinach and feta mixture, adding a lovely texture and a subtle tang. For those who enjoy a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes stirred into the filling will provide a gentle warmth that excites the taste buds without overwhelming them. If you’re feeling adventurous with cheeses, consider swapping out a portion of the feta for creamy goat cheese for a milder, tangier profile, or even a touch of ricotta for added creaminess. A sprinkle of fresh mint or oregano alongside the dill in the filling can also really brighten the flavors. This flexibility means you can tailor the Mediterranean Spinach Feta Cheese Crisps Recipe to suit any preference or what you happen to have on hand, making it a truly versatile and forgiving dish.
So, what are you waiting for? I wholeheartedly encourage you to roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and dive into making these incredible crisps. You’ll be amazed at how straightforward the process is and how rewarding the outcome truly is. This recipe is a fantastic way to bring the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean right into your home, whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply treating yourself to something special. Once you’ve had the pleasure of baking and tasting them, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you stick to the classic? Did you try a fun variation? What did your friends and family think? Please feel free to share your thoughts, your successes, and perhaps even your own creative twists. Your feedback and stories are what make our cooking community so rich and inspiring. Thank you for joining me on this culinary adventure, and I truly hope these delightful crisps bring as much joy to your kitchen as they do to mine. Happy baking!
Mediterranean Spinach Feta Cheese Crisps Recipe
These Mediterranean Spinach Feta Cheese Crisps offer a golden, crispy shell with a warm, savory filling of vibrant spinach and tangy feta. Inspired by Greek spanakopita, they are a wonderfully approachable snack or appetizer, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
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2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped
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1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
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1/2 cup almond flour
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1 large egg
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1/2 tsp salt
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1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
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Step 1
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour with fine sea salt and baking powder. Whisk thoroughly until incorporated. -
Step 2
Create a well, pour in extra virgin olive oil, and work it into the flour mixture with fingertips until it resembles coarse crumbs. -
Step 3
Gradually add warm water, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. Continue adding water a tablespoon at a time until a soft, cohesive dough ball is formed. -
Step 4
Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until it transforms into a smooth, elastic, and homogenous ball. -
Step 5
Lightly brush the dough with olive oil, place in a bowl, cover, and let it rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes (or up to an hour) to relax the gluten. -
Step 6
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet. Sauté finely chopped yellow onion for 5-7 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. -
Step 7
Add fresh spinach to the skillet in batches, cooking until completely wilted (5-8 minutes). Transfer to a colander and squeeze out as much excess liquid as possible to prevent soggy crisps. -
Step 8
In a medium bowl, combine crumbled feta cheese, thoroughly squeezed spinach, fresh dill and parsley, salt, pepper, and ground nutmeg. Optionally, add a lightly beaten egg to bind. Gently mix well and taste to adjust seasoning. -
Step 9
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. -
Step 10
Divide the rested dough into two equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll one portion into a very thin rectangle, approximately 1/16 to 1/8 inch thick (about 12×18 inches). -
Step 11
Evenly spread half of the spinach and feta filling over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border (about 1/2 inch) around the edges. Ensure the filling is spread thinly and evenly. -
Step 12
Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, trim the edges to make a neat rectangle. Cut the large rectangle into smaller individual crisps (e.g., 2×3 inches or 3×4 inches). Repeat with the second dough portion and remaining filling. -
Step 13
Carefully transfer the shaped crisps to your prepared baking sheets, leaving a little space between each one for even air circulation. -
Step 14
Whisk 1 large egg with 1 tablespoon water or milk for an egg wash. Lightly brush the tops of all crisps, then sprinkle generously with sesame seeds and nigella seeds. -
Step 15
Bake in the preheated oven for 18-25 minutes, or until they achieve a beautiful, deep golden-brown color and are visibly crispy. Rotate baking sheets halfway through if needed. -
Step 16
Once baked, carefully remove from oven and transfer the crisps to a wire cooling rack. This prevents sogginess and ensures they stay wonderfully crisp as they cool. -
Step 17
Serve crisps warm or at room temperature. They are fantastic on their own or with dips like tzatziki or hummus. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top brightens all the flavors. Allow to cool 10-15 minutes before serving for best texture. -
Step 18
Store any leftover crisps in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. Reheat briefly in a toaster oven or regular oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes to revive crispness. Freezing once baked is not recommended.
Important Information
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
Allergy Information
Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.