Mediterranean Spinach and Cheese Phyllo Pastry Rolls
These golden, flaky rolls are filled with a savory blend of spinach, cheeses, fresh herbs, and warm Mediterranean spices. Wrapped in delicate phyllo dough and baked until crisp, they make a delightful appetizer, side dish, or vegetarian main. Serve them with a yogurt dip or marinara for a satisfying bite anytime.
Time Required:
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: ~55 minutes
Ingredients
Filling:
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
5 cups fresh spinach (or 10 oz frozen, thawed and squeezed dry)
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
1/2 tsp dried oregano or dill
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/2 cup ricotta or cottage cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or kefalotyri cheese
1 egg, lightly beaten
Assembly:
8–10 phyllo sheets (thawed, if frozen)
1/4 cup olive oil or melted butter (for brushing)
Sesame seeds (optional, for topping)
Instructions
Prepare the Filling
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Sauté chopped onion for 3–4 minutes until translucent.
Add garlic and spinach; cook until wilted and liquid evaporates.
Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and nutmeg. Let cool.
Mix in feta, ricotta, mozzarella, and egg until well combined.
Prepare the Phyllo Sheets
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Place one phyllo sheet on a clean surface.
Brush lightly with olive oil or butter.
Lay another sheet on top and brush again.
Cut into 3 strips lengthwise (about 3–4 inches wide).
Fill and Roll
Place 1 to 2 tablespoons of filling near the bottom edge of each strip.
Fold the sides inward slightly, then roll up like a burrito or log.
Place seam-side down on the baking sheet.
Repeat with remaining phyllo and filling.
Bake
Brush tops with more oil or butter.
Sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Tips
Work Quickly with Phyllo Dough
Phyllo dries out very fast. Keep unused sheets covered with a damp kitchen towel while assembling to prevent cracking.
Drain the Spinach Well
Whether you’re using fresh or frozen spinach, make sure it’s completely dry to avoid a soggy filling. Squeeze it in a clean towel or paper towels.
Let the Filling Cool
Warm filling can make the phyllo soggy and harder to roll. Let the spinach mixture cool before combining it with the cheeses and egg.
Taste the Filling Before Adding Egg
Taste and adjust seasoning (especially salt) before mixing in the egg, since feta and other cheeses are naturally salty.
Use a Sharp Knife for Clean Cuts
If you’re slicing the rolls after baking, let them cool slightly for neater cuts.
Variations
Add Protein
Add shredded rotisserie chicken, ground turkey, or spiced lamb to the filling for a heartier version.
Herb Swaps
Swap oregano for dill, parsley, mint, or thyme for different herbal notes.
Cheese Changes
Try goat cheese or cream cheese for a creamier center.
For extra tang, use manouri, halloumi, or sharp cheddar.
Veggie Add-Ins
Add finely chopped and sautéed mushrooms, grated zucchini (squeezed dry), or sun-dried tomatoes for more depth of flavor.
Spice It Up
Stir in a pinch of chili flakes, paprika, or even harissa paste for a subtle Mediterranean heat.
Freezer-Friendly Tip
Assemble the rolls and freeze before baking. When ready to serve, bake straight from frozen (add 5–7 minutes to baking time).
Q&A
Q: Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
A: Yes! Frozen spinach works just as well. Thaw it completely and squeeze out all excess water before using it in the filling.
Q: Can I make these in advance?
A: Absolutely. You can assemble the rolls and refrigerate them uncooked for up to 24 hours, or freeze them for later baking. Bake straight from the fridge or freezer.
Q: What dipping sauces go well with these rolls?
A: Great choices include:
Garlic yogurt sauce
Tzatziki
Marinara
Tahini-lemon dressing
Harissa aioli for a spicy twist
Q: How do I keep phyllo from tearing?
A: Be gentle, and always keep it covered with a damp towel while working. If a sheet tears, don’t worry—layer another over it.
Q: Can I make them in a pie or tray style instead of rolls?
A: Yes! Simply layer phyllo in a baking dish, spread the spinach-cheese mixture, and top with more phyllo layers. Slice before or after baking.
Nutrition
May vary slightly depending on cheese types and phyllo brand.
Calories: ~130
Protein: 4g
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 1g
Sodium: ~210mg
Conclusion
These Mediterranean Spinach and Cheese Phyllo Pastry Rolls are the perfect combination of crisp texture and savory, cheesy goodness. They celebrate traditional Greek flavors in a fun, finger-friendly form. Whether served as appetizers, brunch bites, or a vegetarian side dish, they offer both comfort and elegance.
They’re versatile, freezer-friendly, and always a hit at gatherings. With endless possibilities for add-ins or flavor tweaks, you can easily make them your own.