Ever found yourself scrambling for an impressive appetizer just hours before guests arrive? Those pre-made frozen options always look so sad on the serving plate! As a passionate home cook and the creator behind GusRecipes, I’ve perfected these Spinach and Feta Pinwheels to solve your party hosting woes. These flaky, savory spirals deliver Mediterranean-inspired flavors that disappear from platters within minutes! My journey creating these pinwheels started when I needed a foolproof appetizer for my sister’s housewarming, and five years later, they’re still requested at every family gathering. In this guide, I’ll walk you through selecting the perfect ingredients, mastering the rolling technique, and creating variations that will have your guests begging for the recipe.
Why These Spinach and Feta Pinwheels Work
These spinach and feta pinwheels have become my signature party appetizer for good reason:
- Uses simple ingredients that create complex, crave-worthy flavors
- Can be prepped days ahead and frozen until needed
- Bakes in just 15-20 minutes for last-minute entertaining
- Perfect for everything from elegant cocktail parties to casual game nights
- Provides a vegetarian option that even dedicated meat-eaters love
Choosing the Right Ingredients for Spinach and Feta Pinwheels
Best Spinach Options
Fresh spinach provides the brightest flavor, but requires extra steps to wilt and drain properly. Pre-frozen spinach works beautifully and saves significant prep time just be sure to squeeze out every drop of moisture to prevent soggy pinwheels.
Feta Selection
Traditional Greek feta made from sheep’s milk delivers the most authentic tangy flavor. Look for feta packed in brine rather than pre-crumbled varieties, which tend to be drier and less flavorful. For a milder option, French feta offers a creamier texture with less salt.
Puff Pastry Matters
All-butter puff pastry creates the flakiest, most delicious pinwheels. While slightly more expensive than standard versions, the rich flavor is worth every penny. Always thaw pastry in the refrigerator overnight never at room temperature, which can cause layers to stick together.
Ingredients & Prep for Spinach and Feta Pinwheels
Filling Essentials
- 10 oz frozen spinach (thawed and THOROUGHLY squeezed dry)
- 8 oz high-quality feta cheese (crumbled)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 Tbsp fresh dill (chopped)
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
Pastry Needs
- 2 sheets puff pastry (thawed according to package directions)
- 1 egg (beaten with 1 Tbsp water for egg wash)
- 1 Tbsp sesame seeds (optional)
Make-Ahead Tips
The filling can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Assembled pinwheels can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking, or frozen for up to 3 months.
Step-by-Step Spinach and Feta Pinwheels Instructions
Pre-Cooking Spinach and Feta Pinwheel Prep
- Ensure your puff pastry has thawed but remains cold (about 40°F).
- Mix spinach, feta, garlic, dill, lemon zest, and black pepper in a large bowl until well combined.
- Taste and adjust seasonings if needed (feta provides saltiness, so additional salt is rarely needed).
- Unfold puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface and gently roll to smooth out creases.
Spinach and Feta Pinwheels Assembly Method
- Spread half the filling evenly over each pastry sheet, leaving a ½-inch border on one long edge.
- Starting from the opposite long edge, tightly roll the pastry toward the clean border, creating a log.
- Brush the clean border with egg wash to seal the roll closed.
- Wrap each roll in parchment paper and chill for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight).
Baking Spinach and Feta Pinwheels
- Preheat oven to 400°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Remove chilled rolls and slice into ½-inch rounds using a sharp knife.
- Place pinwheels cut-side down on baking sheets, spacing 1 inch apart.
- Brush tops with egg wash and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and puffed.
Serving Spinach and Feta Pinwheels
Allow pinwheels to cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a serving platter. They’re delicious warm or at room temperature, making them perfect for buffet-style serving.
For more party-perfect recipes, check out my Pinterest collection of appetizers where I share my favorite crowd-pleasers for every occasion!
Pro Tips for Perfect Spinach and Feta Pinwheels
Avoiding Soggy Pinwheels
The secret to crispy, flaky pinwheels is removing ALL moisture from the spinach. After thawing, place the spinach in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze repeatedly until no more liquid comes out. This extra effort makes all the difference!
Tool Recommendations
A pastry wheel creates cleaner cuts than a knife, especially if your filling is particularly thick. If using a knife, don’t saw use a sharp blade and press straight down for the cleanest slices.
Storage & Reheating
Store baked pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes until warmed through. Microwaving is not recommended as it makes the pastry soggy.
Spinach and Feta Pinwheels Flavor Variations
Mediterranean Twist
Add 2 tablespoons of sun-dried tomatoes (finely chopped) and 1 tablespoon of fresh basil to the filling for vibrant Mediterranean flavors.
Greek-Inspired
Incorporate 2 tablespoons of kalamata olives (pitted and finely chopped) and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano for an authentic Greek taste profile.
Herb Lover’s
Create an herb-forward variation by adding 1 tablespoon each of fresh parsley, chives, and mint to the basic filling.
| Variation | Added Ingredients | Perfect Pairing |
|---|---|---|
| Classic | Standard recipe | Tzatziki dip |
| Mediterranean | Sun-dried tomatoes, basil | Balsamic glaze |
| Greek-Inspired | Kalamata olives, oregano | Hummus |
| Herb Lover’s | Mixed fresh herbs | Lemon yogurt dip |
| Spicy | Red pepper flakes, paprika | Cucumber raita |
Serving Suggestions for Spinach and Feta Pinwheels
These versatile pinwheels shine as part of a larger spread. Try pairing them with:
- Refreshing cucumber and tomato salad
- Creamy hummus and vegetable crudités
- Mediterranean mezze platter with olives and roasted red peppers
- Light sparkling water with lemon for a non-alcoholic beverage option
- Crisp white tea for an elegant afternoon tea service
FAQs About Spinach and Feta Pinwheels
Can I make these spinach and feta pinwheels ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the rolls and freeze them unbaked for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, slice the frozen roll and bake directly from frozen, adding about 5 minutes to the baking time.
How do I prevent my spinach and feta pinwheels from unraveling?
Make sure to chill the assembled rolls for at least 30 minutes before slicing. Using a very sharp knife (or even dental floss!) and cutting with a straight down motion rather than sawing helps maintain the spiral shape.
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes! You’ll need about 1 pound of fresh spinach. Blanch it briefly in boiling water, then plunge into ice water. Squeeze out all moisture before chopping and proceeding with the recipe.
Conclusion
These Spinach and Feta Pinwheels have saved countless parties and gatherings in my home, and I’m confident they’ll do the same for you! Their make-ahead convenience combined with impressive presentation makes them a hostess’s secret weapon. The combination of flaky pastry, savory spinach, and tangy feta creates an irresistible bite that disappears quickly from any platter.
Ready to impress your guests with minimal effort? Give these pinwheels a try at your next gathering and watch how quickly they vanish! And if you love these, be sure to check out more of my party-ready recipes at GusRecipes.com. I’d love to see your creations tag me on social media when you make them!
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Spinach and Feta Pinwheels: 5 Irresistible Party Bites
- Total Time: 33 mins
- Yield: 16–20 pinwheels 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Spinach and Feta Pinwheels are crispy, golden bites filled with a deliciously creamy spinach and feta mixture. Made with puff pastry, they’re the perfect make-ahead appetizer or snack that everyone will love.
Ingredients
1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
1 cup frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix spinach, feta, cream cheese, mozzarella, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Unfold the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface.
4. Spread the spinach mixture evenly over the pastry.
5. Roll tightly into a log and slice into 1/2-inch pinwheels.
6. Arrange on the baking sheet and brush tops with beaten egg.
7. Bake for 15–18 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
8. Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Make sure the spinach is well-drained to avoid soggy pastry.
Add a pinch of nutmeg or chili flakes for extra flavor.
Can be baked ahead and reheated in the oven before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 18 mins
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 pinwheels
- Calories: 140
Keywords: spinach feta pinwheels, puff pastry, appetizer, vegetarian snacks