Spinach Feta Mini Rolls are a fun, delicious, and healthy appetizer, perfect for kids and adults alike. These crispy rolls are packed with a flavorful filling of spinach, feta, and fresh herbs like mint and parsley. With a crunchy exterior and creamy interior, these mini rolls make great finger food and can be baked in an air fryer, oven, or even fried. They are ideal for parties, snacks, or as a starter for meals like Iftar during Ramadan.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
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1 package frozen filo dough
For the filling: -
1 bag frozen spinach (450 grams), thawed
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1 cup crumbled feta
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1 egg
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½ cup grated Romano cheese
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1 red onion, finely chopped
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Salt and pepper to taste
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¼ teaspoon cardamom
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1 cup fresh mint
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1 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley
For brushing and frying:
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Oil (for brushing)
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2 tbsp butter (for greasing)
Optional:
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Greek yogurt (for dipping)
Directions
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Thaw the filo dough according to the package instructions.
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Prepare the filling: Place all the filling ingredients in a food processor and blend until smooth and creamy.
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Take one sheet of filo dough and cover the rest with a clean kitchen towel to prevent drying.
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Cut the sheet into three long strips.
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Spray or brush each strip with oil.
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Fold each strip in half to create a double layer of dough.
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Place one teaspoon of filling along the short edge of the strip and roll it up to enclose the filling.
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Brush the rolls with a little oil.
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Repeat with the remaining filo dough and filling.
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Preheat the air fryer to 180°C (350°F) and set the time for 4 minutes.
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Air fry the rolls (if using an oven, bake them with a bit of oil; alternatively, you can fry them).
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Serve with Greek yogurt for dipping, if desired.
Nutrients (per serving, approximate — 6 servings)
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Calories: 170
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Fat: 12g
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Saturated Fat: 5g
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Cholesterol: 22mg
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Sodium: 201mg
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Potassium: 118mg
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Carbohydrates: 12g
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Fiber: 1g
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Sugar: 2g
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Protein: 3g
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Vitamin A: 1420IU
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Vitamin C: 10.2mg
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Calcium: 82mg
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Iron: 1mg
The Versatility of Spinach Feta Mini Rolls
One of the great things about these mini rolls is their versatility. You can prepare them in multiple ways, allowing you to choose the method that suits your kitchen setup and personal preference. Air frying is a great option if you want to achieve a crispy texture without the need for much oil, while baking in the oven provides a golden, crunchy exterior with minimal effort. For those who prefer a more indulgent option, frying the rolls in a bit of oil adds extra crispiness and richness. No matter how you cook them, these rolls remain wonderfully crunchy on the outside while the interior stays soft and creamy, making them perfect for any occasion.
The Health Benefits of Spinach
Spinach is the star vegetable in this dish, providing both flavor and numerous health benefits. Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, spinach is a powerhouse of nutrients that contribute to eye health, immunity, and overall wellness. It’s also a great source of iron, which helps in the formation of red blood cells, and is packed with fiber, which aids digestion and promotes a healthy gut. Additionally, spinach is low in calories and high in antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation and fight off free radicals. By incorporating spinach into these mini rolls, you’re adding a healthy boost to a delicious appetizer.
Feta Cheese: A Creamy and Tangy Addition
Feta cheese is the perfect complement to the spinach, offering a tangy, creamy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the earthy taste of the leafy green. Made from sheep’s milk or a blend of sheep’s and goat’s milk, feta has a crumbly texture and a distinctive, salty taste that elevates the overall flavor profile of the rolls. Feta is also lower in fat than many other cheeses, making it a healthier option without sacrificing flavor. Its tangy notes cut through the richness of the other ingredients, adding depth and balance to the filling. The creaminess of the feta blends perfectly with the spinach, creating a smooth and satisfying bite.
Fresh Herbs for a Burst of Flavor
To enhance the flavor of the filling, fresh herbs like mint and parsley are added to the spinach and feta mixture. Mint provides a refreshing, slightly sweet note, while parsley adds a mild, earthy flavor that complements the spinach. The combination of these fresh herbs brings a burst of freshness to the rolls, making them even more flavorful. Fresh mint, in particular, brings an aromatic quality to the dish, while parsley adds a touch of green, creating a balance of herbaceous flavors that brighten up the savory filling. These herbs are what give the rolls a unique and fresh twist, elevating them from simple to extraordinary.
The Role of Filo Dough
The filo dough is an essential component of this recipe, providing the signature crispiness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy spinach and feta filling. Filo dough, also known as phyllo dough, is paper-thin and is often used in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines to create delicate, flaky pastries. It’s incredibly versatile and can be used to make everything from sweet baklava to savory snacks like these spinach and feta rolls. When baked or fried, filo dough crisps up beautifully, creating a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the creamy filling. The multiple layers of dough also give the rolls a light, airy texture, making them a delightful bite-sized snack.
A Perfect Party Snack
Spinach Feta Mini Rolls are the ideal appetizer for parties, gatherings, or even casual get-togethers. Their small, bite-sized nature makes them easy to serve and share, and they’re a fun way for guests to enjoy a variety of flavors in a single bite. Whether served as part of a larger spread or as the centerpiece of a snack table, these mini rolls are sure to be a hit. They’re also an excellent choice for events where you need finger foods that are easy to eat while mingling, such as cocktail parties, potlucks, or picnics. The combination of textures, flavors, and health benefits makes them a standout choice for any occasion.
Perfect for Kids and Adults
What sets these mini rolls apart is their ability to appeal to both kids and adults. For children, the crispy, golden exterior and creamy filling are sure to win them over, while the savory, herb-infused flavors make them a hit with adults as well. The combination of spinach and feta offers a healthier option than many traditional snacks, while the crunchy filo dough makes the rolls enjoyable to eat. The fact that they’re bite-sized means they’re a perfect snack for little hands, and their delicious taste will ensure that they’re enjoyed by guests of all ages. Whether you’re preparing them for a family dinner, a children’s party, or a gathering with friends, Spinach Feta Mini Rolls are always a crowd-pleaser.
Customizing the Filling
While the classic spinach and feta filling is already delicious, one of the great things about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize the filling to suit your tastes or dietary needs. For instance, you can add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or even roasted sweet potato to the filling for extra texture and flavor. If you prefer a stronger cheese flavor, you could substitute the feta with goat cheese or ricotta. Adding a touch of garlic or lemon zest can give the rolls an extra burst of flavor, while adjusting the herbs allows you to tailor the recipe to your liking. This flexibility makes Spinach Feta Mini Rolls a dish that can be adapted for any occasion or dietary preference.
Serving Suggestions
To complement the flavors of the Spinach Feta Mini Rolls, consider serving them with a simple dipping sauce. Greek yogurt is an excellent option, as its creamy, tangy profile pairs well with the savory rolls. You can also experiment with other dipping sauces, such as tzatziki, a classic Mediterranean yogurt-based sauce, or a spicy tomato salsa for added heat. A drizzle of balsamic glaze can also add a sweet and tangy note that pairs well with the richness of the feta and spinach filling. Serving the rolls with a side salad or a light soup also makes for a more substantial meal, turning these mini rolls into a perfect light lunch or dinner option.
Conclusion
Spinach Feta Mini Rolls are the perfect combination of crispy, creamy, and flavorful, making them an ideal appetizer or snack for any occasion. The blend of spinach, feta, and fresh herbs provides a savory filling that is both healthy and satisfying, while the filo dough offers a light, crunchy exterior that complements the creamy filling perfectly. Whether baked in the oven, air fried, or fried in oil, these mini rolls are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Their versatility, ease of preparation, and ability to be customized make them a must-try recipe for anyone looking to add a flavorful, healthy appetizer to their menu. Whether served at a party, as a starter, or as a fun snack, these rolls are a crowd-pleasing treat that’s sure to leave everyone coming back for more.