Spinach & Cheese Phyllo Triangles

Description

Spinach & Cheese Phyllo Triangles are crispy, golden pastries filled with a savory mixture of spinach, creamy cheese, and herbs wrapped in delicate layers of flaky phyllo dough. Inspired by Mediterranean and Greek flavors, these triangles are perfect as appetizers, snacks, party bites, or light lunches. They bake up beautifully crunchy on the outside while staying creamy and flavorful inside.

 Ingredients For the Filling

• 2 cups fresh spinach (chopped)
• 1 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
• ½ cup ricotta or cream cheese
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 egg
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp dried oregano or dill

For the Pastry

• 8–10 sheets phyllo dough
• ¼ cup melted butter or olive oil (for brushing)

 Instructions

1. Cook the Filling
   Heat olive oil in a pan. Sauté onion and garlic until soft. Add spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
2. Mix the Cheese Filling
   In a bowl, combine spinach mixture, feta, ricotta, egg, black pepper, and herbs. Mix well.
3. Prepare Phyllo Dough
   Lay one sheet of phyllo dough on a clean surface and lightly brush with melted butter or olive oil. Layer another sheet on top.
4. Cut into Strips
   Slice the layered phyllo into long strips.
5. Fill & Fold
   Place a spoonful of filling at one end of each strip and fold diagonally repeatedly to create triangle shapes.
6. Brush & Bake
   Place triangles on a lined baking tray. Brush tops lightly with butter or oil. Bake at 190°C (375°F) for 20–25 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve
   Cool slightly and serve warm.

Time Required

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: ~45 minutes

 Servings

• Makes: 12–16 triangles

 Notes

• Keep phyllo dough covered with a damp towel to prevent drying out.
• Frozen spinach can be used—just squeeze out excess water.
• Do not overfill to avoid tearing the pastry.

 Tips

• Add mozzarella for extra cheesy filling.
• Sprinkle sesame seeds on top before baking.
• Serve with tzatziki or yogurt dip.
• Freeze unbaked triangles for quick future snacks.

 Nutritional Information (Per Triangle Approx.)

• Calories: 120–160 kcal
• Protein: 4–6 g
• Carbohydrates: 10–14 g
• Fat: 6–9 g
• Fiber: 1–2 g

 Benefits

• Rich in iron & calcium: Spinach and cheese provide essential nutrients.
• Crispy yet light: Great snack without being too heavy.
• Versatile: Perfect for parties, lunchboxes, or appetizers.
• Vegetarian-friendly: Meat-free but satisfying.

 Q&A

Q1: Can I air fry these?
Yes, air fry at 180°C (350°F) for 10–12 minutes.

Q2: Can I freeze them?
Yes, freeze before baking and bake directly from frozen.

Q3: Why is my phyllo breaking?
It dries quickly—keep unused sheets covered with a damp towel.

Q4: Can I use puff pastry instead?
Yes, though texture will be different and less flaky.

Q5: What dip goes best with these?
Tzatziki, garlic yogurt sauce, or marinara sauce work great.