Spinach & Ricotta Spanakopita Roll-Ups are your go-to appetizer for any gathering. These delightful little bites combine flaky phyllo pastry with a creamy spinach filling, creating a perfect harmony of textures and flavors.
Olive oil is used to sauté the onions and garlic, providing a flavorful base for the filling. Onion adds sweetness and depth, while garlic brings a pungent, aromatic kick. Spinach, the star of the show, offers a burst of color and nutrients, and its mild flavor pairs wonderfully with the cheeses. Ricotta cheese adds creaminess, giving the filling a rich texture. Feta cheese introduces a tangy, salty flavor that complements the spinach beautifully. Fresh herbs like dill and parsley add a refreshing, bright note to the mixture. Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning, bringing all the flavors together. Phyllo dough, the delicate, flaky pastry, wraps everything up into perfect little packages. Finally, unsalted butter helps the phyllo crisp up to a golden brown while adding a hint of richness.
Pair these Spinach & Ricotta Spanakopita Roll-Ups with a refreshing tzatziki sauce on the side. They also complement a Greek salad beautifully, making for a light, Mediterranean-inspired meal. For a heartier spread, serve alongside grilled lamb or chicken skewers.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s at the right temperature by the time your roll-ups are ready to bake. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them until they become translucent and aromatic—this should take about 3–4 minutes.
Next, stir in the chopped spinach. Keep cooking until it wilts down, which should only take a couple of minutes. Once done, remove the skillet from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly. This cooling step is crucial to avoid melting the cheeses too early.
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled spinach mixture with 1/2 cup of ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese, 2 tablespoons of fresh dill, and 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything until well combined.
Lay out one sheet of phyllo dough on a flat surface and brush it lightly with melted butter. Place another sheet on top and repeat the buttering process. This layering of phyllo is what gives the roll-ups their signature flaky texture.
Spread a thin layer of the spinach mixture along one edge of the phyllo. Roll up the phyllo sheet tightly from the filled edge, similar to rolling a sushi roll. Once rolled, cut it into 1-inch pieces.
Place the roll-ups on a baking sheet and brush the tops with more melted butter. This not only helps them achieve a beautiful golden color but also adds a lovely richness. Pop them in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until they’re golden brown and crisp. Serve them warm, and enjoy the delightful crunch and creamy filling!
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