Introduction to Spinach Feta Pinwheels
Flaky, buttery puff pastry wrapped around spinach and feta cheese—these Spinach Feta Pinwheels are the perfect appetizer for any occasion. Inspired by Greek spanakopita, this easy-to-make recipe delivers a crispy, golden-brown bite with a creamy, cheesy filling.
Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a quick snack, or planning a special brunch, these pinwheels are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, they’re easy to make ahead and can be customized with different ingredients to suit your taste.
But before we get into the step-by-step recipe, let’s first understand what makes this dish special and how to get the perfect puff pastry texture every time. If you’re working with store-bought puff pastry, check out this Baked Ham and Cheese Pinwheels.
The Origin and Inspiration Behind the Recipe
Spinach Feta Pinwheels draw inspiration from the beloved Greek spanakopita, a traditional dish made with layers of delicate phyllo dough, spinach, feta cheese, and aromatic herbs. Spanakopita has been a staple in Greek cuisine for centuries, celebrated for its crispy, golden layers and rich, savory filling.
This pinwheel variation captures the essence of spanakopita but offers a quicker, more convenient twist by using puff pastry instead of phyllo. Puff pastry provides a buttery, flaky texture, eliminating the need for careful layering while still delivering a crisp, golden crust.
These pinwheels are perfect as a party appetizer, brunch item, or quick snack. The combination of creamy feta, vibrant spinach, and light, crispy pastry makes them irresistible. For more Mediterranean-inspired appetizers, check out these Greek-style appetizer ideas for your next gathering!
Why You’ll Love These Spinach Feta Pinwheels
✅ Quick & Easy: Requires minimal ingredients and simple steps.
✅ Crowd Favorite: Perfect for parties, brunches, and snacks.
✅ Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepped in advance and baked fresh.
✅ Customizable: Easily add meats, spices, or different cheeses.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these delicious spinach and feta pinwheels, gather the following ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 1 cup frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 green onion, finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon garlic salt
- A pinch of nutmeg (optional for extra flavor)
For the Pastry:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed (preferably an all-butter brand)
- 1 egg, whisked with 1 tablespoon of water (for egg wash)
📌 Pro Tip: When choosing feta cheese, go for a block instead of pre-crumbled feta for better texture and flavor.
How to Make Spinach Feta Pinwheels
1. Prepare the Puff Pastry
- Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to remove any creases.
- Brush a thin layer of egg wash over the pastry to help seal the pinwheels later.
2. Make the Filling
- In a bowl, mix the spinach, feta, mozzarella, green onions, garlic salt, and nutmeg.
3. Assemble the Pinwheels
- Evenly spread the spinach and cheese mixture over the pastry, leaving a ½-inch border on one short side.
- Carefully roll up the pastry like a jelly roll, starting from the filled end.
- Chill the rolled pastry in the fridge for 15–20 minutes before slicing.
4. Slice & Bake
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Using a sharp knife, cut the roll into ½-inch slices and place them on a lined baking sheet.
- Brush the tops with the remaining egg wash.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Expert Tips for Perfect Pinwheels
✔ Use Cold Pastry – Puff pastry bakes best when it’s cold. Keep it chilled until ready to roll and bake.
✔ Drain Spinach Well – Excess moisture can make the pinwheels soggy. Use a paper towel or a potato ricer to squeeze out as much water as possible.
✔ Don’t Overfill – Too much filling can make it difficult to roll and cause the pinwheels to unravel while baking.
✔ Use a Sharp Knife – This ensures clean cuts and prevents flattening the rolls.
Flavor Variations
While the classic Spinach Feta Pinwheels are already delicious, you can easily customize them with different ingredients to suit your taste. Here are some fun and creative variations to try:
1. Spicy Spinach Feta Pinwheels 🔥
Love a bit of heat? Add:
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes for a gentle kick.
- Chopped jalapeños or hot sauce for extra spice.
- Spicy harissa paste for a Middle Eastern twist.
2. Protein-Packed Pinwheels 🍗
Make these pinwheels heartier by adding protein:
- Shredded chicken for a lean, filling option.
- Crumbled bacon for a smoky, savory touch.
- Diced smoked salmon for a gourmet twist.
3. Cheese Lover’s Pinwheels 🧀
Enhance the creamy, cheesy texture by adding:
- Goat cheese for a tangy, rich flavor.
- Parmesan or Gouda for a deeper, nutty taste.
- Ricotta cheese for a softer, milder texture.
4. Mediterranean-Style Pinwheels 🇬🇷
Emphasize classic Mediterranean flavors with:
- Sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy-sweet contrast.
- Kalamata olives for a salty punch.
- Fresh basil or oregano for added freshness.
5. Vegan Spinach Pinwheels 🌱
Ditch the dairy for a plant-based version:
- Use vegan puff pastry (many store-bought brands are naturally vegan).
- Swap feta for dairy-free cheese like cashew-based feta.
- Use a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) instead of an egg wash.
Serving Suggestions
Spinach Feta Pinwheels are versatile, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a party appetizer, brunch snack, or side dish, these pinwheels are always a hit. Here’s how to present them for maximum enjoyment:
Best Occasions to Serve Spinach Feta Pinwheels
- Party Appetizer: These bite-sized snacks are ideal for gatherings, game nights, and holiday feasts.
- Brunch Addition: Pair them with scrambled eggs, smoked salmon, or fresh fruit.
- Quick Snack: Enjoy warm pinwheels as a light, savory treat between meals.
- Side Dish: Serve alongside a fresh Greek salad or roasted vegetables.
Dipping Sauces for Extra Flavor
Enhance the flavors of spinach and feta pinwheels with delicious dips:
- Tzatziki Sauce – A creamy, garlicky Greek yogurt dip.
- Hummus – Adds a smooth, nutty complement to the crispy pastry.
- Marinara Sauce – A tangy tomato dip for a Mediterranean touch.
- Garlic Aioli – Rich and garlicky for extra indulgence.
Pairing Suggestions
For a complete meal, serve with:
- Greek-style mezze platters featuring olives, roasted red peppers, and stuffed grape leaves.
- A light white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling Prosecco.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Storing Leftover Pinwheels
To keep your Spinach Feta Pinwheels fresh and crispy, proper storage is essential:
- Refrigeration: Place cooled pinwheels in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing (Unbaked): Arrange the uncooked pinwheels in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a ziplock bag and store for up to 3 months.
- Freezing (Baked): If already baked, let them cool completely before freezing. Reheat directly from frozen (no need to thaw).
Reheating for Best Crispiness
For oven-fresh crispiness, follow these methods:
Microwave (not recommended): While quick, microwaving makes the pastry soft instead of crisp.
Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 8-10 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
FAQs
❓ Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes! Fresh spinach works just as well, but you’ll need to sauté it first. Cook it in a dry pan over medium heat until wilted, then let it cool and squeeze out excess moisture. Too much water in the spinach can make the pinwheels soggy.
❓ How do I keep my pinwheels from getting soggy?
The key to crisp, flaky pinwheels is removing excess moisture from the spinach and baking at the right temperature. If using frozen spinach, thoroughly squeeze out the water before mixing it with the cheese. Also, ensure your puff pastry stays cold before baking.
❓ Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can:
- Refrigerate the rolled log (unbaked) overnight, then slice and bake fresh.
- Freeze the unbaked pinwheels in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a sealed bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
❓ Can I air-fry these pinwheels instead of baking?
Yes! To air-fry, set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness.
❓ What are the best dips to serve with these?
These Spinach Feta Pinwheels pair beautifully with:
- Tzatziki sauce (for a Greek twist)
- Garlic yogurt dip
- Marinara sauce
- Hummus
Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them
Even though Spinach Feta Pinwheels are easy to make, a few simple mistakes can affect their texture and flavor. Here’s what to watch out for and how to fix it:
1. Overstuffing the Pinwheels
❌ Issue: Too much filling makes it hard to roll the pastry and can cause leaks while baking.
✅ Fix: Spread a thin, even layer of filling and leave at least ½ inch of space at the edges to seal properly.
2. Using Wet Spinach
❌ Issue: Excess moisture from frozen spinach can make the pinwheels soggy.
✅ Fix: Thoroughly squeeze out all excess water from the spinach using a paper towel or potato ricer before mixing it into the filling.
3. Not Keeping Puff Pastry Cold
❌ Issue: Warm puff pastry becomes sticky and won’t puff up properly in the oven.
✅ Fix: Always chill the rolled-up pastry for at least 15 minutes before slicing and baking for a flakier texture.
4. Baking at the Wrong Temperature
❌ Issue: A low oven temperature won’t allow the pastry to puff up, making it dense.
✅ Fix: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for the best rise and crispiness.
5. Not Sealing the Edges Properly
❌ Issue: The pinwheels can unravel in the oven if not sealed well.
✅ Fix: Brush the edge with egg wash before rolling to help it stick.
Final Thoughts
These Spinach Feta Pinwheels are a delicious, easy-to-make appetizer that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving them at a party, as a quick snack, or for a special occasion, they’re guaranteed to be a hit!
Want more cheesy appetizer ideas? Check out these cheese pairing suggestions for your next gathering!
👩🍳 Tried this recipe? Let us know in the comments and rate it! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
