These crispy, savory Spinach Feta Mini Rolls are a delightful way to incorporate more vegetables into a meal, especially for kids! The combination of creamy feta, nutritious spinach, and a touch of fresh herbs wrapped in crispy filo dough makes these rolls irresistible. They can be baked, fried, or air-fried for a quick and healthy snack or appetizer. Perfect for parties or as a side dish!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 package frozen filo dough

• For the Filling:

  • 1 bag frozen spinach (450g), thawed

  • 1 cup crumbled feta cheese

  • 1 egg

  • 1/2 cup grated Romano cheese

  • 1 red onion, finely chopped

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • 1/4 tsp ground cardamom

  • 1 cup fresh mint, chopped

  • 1 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped

Directions

1. Prepare the Filo Dough:
   Thaw the filo dough according to the package instructions.

2. Make the Filling:
   In a food processor, combine the thawed spinach, feta, egg, Romano cheese, onion, salt, pepper, cardamom, mint, and parsley. Blend until the mixture forms a smooth, creamy paste.

3. Assemble the Rolls:
   Lay one sheet of filo dough on a clean surface and cover the remaining sheets with a kitchen towel to prevent them from drying out. Cut the sheet into 3 long strips. Brush each strip lightly with oil, then fold each in half to create a double layer.

4. Add the Filling:
   Place one teaspoon of the filling along the short edge of the rectangle and roll the dough tightly around the filling, sealing the edges. Brush each roll with a little oil to help it crisp up.

5. Cook the Rolls:
   Preheat the Philips Air Fryer to 180°C (350°F) and cook the rolls for 4 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Alternatively, bake in the oven at 350°F or fry in oil.

6. Serve:
   Serve the mini rolls warm with a side of Greek yogurt for dipping.

Nutrients (Estimated per mini roll, makes about 12 rolls)

• Calories: ~120 kcal

• Carbohydrates: ~15g

• Protein: ~4g

• Fat: ~5g

• Saturated Fat: ~2g

• Fiber: ~2g

Why Spinach and Feta?

Spinach and feta are a classic pairing, especially in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine. Spinach is a highly nutritious green that provides a wealth of vitamins and minerals, including iron, vitamin K, and antioxidants. Feta cheese, on the other hand, adds a creamy, slightly tangy richness that balances the earthiness of spinach beautifully.

The combination of these two ingredients in Spinach Feta Mini Rolls offers a healthy and flavorful filling that’s both satisfying and nourishing. Plus, the addition of fresh herbs like mint and parsley enhances the flavor even further, creating a vibrant and aromatic dish that’s packed with freshness.

These mini rolls are a great way to introduce more vegetables into your diet, especially for kids who might not be keen on eating their greens. The crispy filo dough and the savory filling create a snack that’s not only healthy but also incredibly delicious.

The Filo Dough: Crispy and Light

Filo dough (or phyllo dough) is a thin, unleavened dough that is layered to create a delicate, crispy texture when baked or fried. It’s commonly used in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes and is the perfect base for these mini rolls. The beauty of filo dough is that it creates an ultra-crispy exterior while allowing the filling to remain soft and flavorful inside. This makes each bite a delightful combination of crunch and creaminess.

One of the great things about filo dough is its versatility. You can bake the rolls in the oven for a traditional, golden finish, fry them for extra crispiness, or air-fry them for a healthier option that still delivers that perfect crunch. Filo dough is also lighter than many other doughs, which makes these rolls a bit more guilt-free while still offering plenty of flavor.

How to Make the Spinach Feta Filling

The filling for these mini rolls is simple to make and incredibly flavorful. The key ingredients are thawed frozen spinach and crumbled feta cheese, which provide the foundation for the filling. The spinach is packed with nutrients, while the feta adds creaminess and a bit of saltiness that balances the flavors perfectly.

To prepare the filling, you simply combine the spinach, feta, egg, grated Romano cheese, onion, and a touch of spices in a food processor. This mixture is blended until smooth and creamy, creating a spreadable paste that’s perfect for rolling up in the filo dough. The addition of fresh herbs like mint and parsley brightens the filling, adding an extra layer of freshness and flavor. A small amount of cardamom enhances the aromatic qualities of the dish, giving it a warm, subtly spicy note.

Assembly: Simple and Fun

Assembling the rolls is the fun part! First, you’ll lay out a sheet of filo dough and cut it into strips. Each strip is lightly brushed with oil to ensure it becomes golden and crisp during cooking. Then, you’ll fold the strip in half, creating a double layer of dough that’s sturdy enough to hold the filling.

Next, you’ll place a teaspoon of the spinach feta mixture at one end of the dough strip and roll it up tightly, sealing the edges. Brushing the rolled-up mini rolls with a little extra oil helps them crisp up during cooking and adds to their golden appearance.

Once the rolls are assembled, they can be cooked in a variety of ways, making this recipe versatile depending on your preferences. Baking, frying, or air-frying all work beautifully, and each method results in crispy, golden mini rolls with a creamy, flavorful filling inside.

Cooking Methods: Bake, Fry, or Air-Fry

One of the best things about these Spinach Feta Mini Rolls is the different cooking methods you can use to achieve your desired texture:

• Baking: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the rolls for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Baking is a healthier option and ensures that the rolls cook evenly without too much oil.

• Frying: For an extra-crispy finish, you can fry the rolls in vegetable oil. Heat the oil in a pan and fry the rolls in batches for about 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides. Frying gives the rolls a rich, crispy texture and is perfect if you’re looking for a more indulgent version.

• Air-Frying: If you want to cut down on oil while still achieving a crispy texture, air-frying is an excellent option. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook the rolls for 4-5 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Air-frying provides a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Each cooking method gives the rolls a deliciously crispy exterior, and the choice of how to cook them depends on your dietary preferences or the equipment you have on hand.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

These Spinach Feta Mini Rolls are incredibly versatile and can be served in many different ways. Here are a few ideas:

• As an Appetizer: Serve the rolls as a delicious appetizer at a dinner party or gathering. Pair them with a side of tzatziki or a creamy dip for added flavor.

• As a Side Dish: These rolls make a great side dish to complement Mediterranean or Middle Eastern-inspired meals. Serve them alongside grilled meats, salads, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

• With Greek Yogurt: For a refreshing contrast, serve the mini rolls with a side of Greek yogurt. The creamy, tangy yogurt pairs wonderfully with the warm, savory rolls.

• As a Snack: These rolls are perfect for a quick snack or light lunch. Their bite-sized nature makes them easy to eat on the go, and they’re a hit with both kids and adults.

Why These Rolls Are Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a party appetizer, or a light side dish, Spinach Feta Mini Rolls are the perfect choice. They’re easy to make, customizable to your taste, and offer a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals. The combination of crispy filo dough, savory feta, and healthy spinach makes them both delicious and nutritious.

These rolls are also a great option for meal prep. Make a batch in advance, store them in the fridge, and reheat them in the oven or air fryer for a quick, satisfying meal at any time. They also freeze well, so you can make them ahead of time and store them for future use.

Conclusion: A Must-Try Recipe for Bread Lovers

Spinach Feta Mini Rolls are a delightful and flavorful dish that brings together the best of crispy pastry and creamy filling. Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering or meal. With their irresistible combination of flavors and textures, these rolls will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection. Try them today, and enjoy the satisfying crunch and creamy filling in every bite!