Pin it
This savory spinach puff pastry is my vegetarian take on classic sausage rolls, featuring a delicious spinach and feta filling wrapped in flaky pastry. The combination of earthy spinach, tangy feta, and buttery puff pastry creates an irresistible appetizer that disappears quickly at any gathering.
I first made these spinach rolls for a neighborhood potluck when I needed something that could be prepared in advance. They were such a hit that they've become my signature party appetizer, with friends regularly requesting the recipe.
Key Ingredients
- Frozen puff pastry sheets: Thawed according to package directions for the flakiest results
- Frozen chopped spinach: Provides convenience and consistent flavor year-round
- Feta cheese: Adds a tangy saltiness that balances the earthy spinach
- Fresh garlic clove: Brings essential aromatic flavor to the filling
- Vegetable oil: For sautéing with a neutral flavor that lets the other ingredients shine
- Egg and milk mixture: Creates that beautiful golden brown crust
- Sesame seeds: Add a delightful nuttiness and appealing texture to the finished rolls
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors without overwhelming them
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the filling:
- Heat your oil in a skillet over medium heat until it shimmers. Add the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, about 1 to 2 minutes, being careful not to brown it as this can create bitterness. Add your thoroughly drained spinach to the pan and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The key here is ensuring all excess moisture has been removed from the spinach to prevent soggy pastry. Season with salt to your preference, then transfer to a mixing bowl and allow to cool slightly before folding in the crumbled feta until evenly distributed.
- Prepare the pastry:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and grease two baking sheets to prevent sticking. On a lightly floured surface, lay out one sheet of thawed puff pastry and cut it in half lengthwise. Gently roll one half with a rolling pin to widen it just enough to allow for folding twice lengthwise. This creates multiple buttery layers in the final product. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk to create your egg wash.
- Assemble the rolls:
- Spread approximately one sixth of your spinach mixture in a line down the center of the prepared pastry strip. Fold one edge of the pastry over the filling, then brush the remaining edge with egg wash before folding it over to seal completely. The egg wash acts as a delicious glue here. Brush the top of your completed roll with more egg wash and sprinkle generously with sesame seeds for that professional bakery look.
- Cut and bake:
- Using a sharp knife, cut each assembled roll into 6 equal pieces. Place them seam side down on your prepared baking sheets, leaving about an inch between each roll to allow for expansion. Bake in your preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until the pastry has puffed dramatically and turned a gorgeous golden brown color.
Pin it
The feta cheese is truly the magical ingredient in these rolls. I discovered its importance when I once substituted ricotta in a pinch, and while still good, they lacked that distinctive tangy flavor that makes everyone ask for the recipe. My daughter now requests these for her birthday every year instead of cake!
Make-Ahead Magic
These spinach rolls are perfect for preparing in advance. You can assemble the rolls completely, cut them into individual pieces, and refrigerate them covered for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, simply brush with fresh egg wash, sprinkle with sesame seeds, and bake as directed. The pastry might need an extra minute or two if baking from cold.
Storage and Reheating
Once baked, these spinach rolls will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid using the microwave as it will make the pastry soggy. For longer storage, freeze unbaked rolls without the egg wash for up to 2 months, then bake directly from frozen with a fresh egg wash, adding about 5-7 minutes to the baking time.
Creative Variations
The basic recipe is wonderfully versatile and can be adapted to use whatever you have on hand. Try adding caramelized onions for sweetness, pine nuts for texture, or a handful of fresh herbs like dill or mint for brightness. You can also experiment with different cheeses such as goat cheese for extra creaminess or a sprinkle of parmesan for a more savory note. For a non-vegetarian version, crispy bacon bits make a delicious addition to the filling.
Serving Suggestions
These spinach rolls are delightful served warm from the oven, but they also taste wonderful at room temperature, making them perfect for buffets and picnics. Pair them with a simple yogurt dip seasoned with lemon and herbs for contrast, or serve alongside a hearty soup for a complete meal. They make an elegant addition to a brunch spread and are substantial enough to satisfy hungry guests at cocktail parties.
Pin it
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach. Chop and wilt the equivalent amount of fresh spinach before mixing it with the other ingredients.
- → How do I prevent the puff pastry from becoming soggy?
Ensure the spinach mixture is well-drained before assembling the rolls. Excess moisture can cause the pastry to become soggy during baking.
- → Can I prepare these spinach rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rolls and refrigerate them unbaked for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving for optimal freshness.
- → Can I freeze the spinach rolls?
Yes, the unbaked rolls can be frozen for up to one month. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- → What can I substitute for feta cheese?
If you prefer, you can substitute feta with ricotta, goat cheese, or even cream cheese for a different flavor and texture.