Delicious Spinach and Feta Turnovers: A Flavorful Culinary Delight

Recipe Overview

If you’re searching for an easy Spinach and feta turnovers recipe that combines nutritious ingredients with delightful flavors, you’re in the right place! These savory turnovers are an irresistible blend of fresh spinach and tangy feta cheese, wrapped in a golden, flaky pastry. Originating from Mediterranean cuisine, this dish has become a household favorite due to its versatility and spectacular taste. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, these homemade Spinach and feta turnovers from scratch are sure to impress family and friends. Embrace the joy of cooking with this enticing recipe that captures the essence of wholesome, flavorful ingredients. Plus, with options to make it vegan, everyone can enjoy these turnovers!

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Serving Size: 12 turnovers

Ingredients Section

Gather your ingredients to create these fantastic spinach and feta turnovers. Below is a detailed list to guide you.

For the Crust:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
1/4 cup ice water (more if needed)

For the Filling:

4 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or use frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
1 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash; use plant-based milk for vegan option)
Salt and pepper to taste

Possible Ingredient Swaps:

Gluten-free flour blend can be used instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free option.
Substitute olive oil for butter for a dairy-free option.
Use almond milk instead of whole milk for a vegan alternative.

Equipment List

Before you embark on this delicious cooking journey, ensure you have the following equipment ready:

Mixing bowls
Pastry cutter or fork
Rolling pin
Baking sheet
Parchment paper (optional)
Knife and cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons
Whisk or fork (for egg wash)
Food processor (optional, for mixing the dough)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s dive into the detailed process of making these spinach and feta turnovers.

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder. Mix well to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.
Add the chilled, cubed unsalted butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Slowly add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough starts to come together. You may need to add a little more water if the dough feels too dry. Avoid overmixing the dough.
Once combined, shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This will help to chill the dough, making it easier to roll out later.

Step 2: Make the Filling

While the dough chills, prepare the filling. In a medium skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add minced garlic and chopped spinach to the skillet. Stir and cook until the spinach has wilted and most of the moisture has evaporated (approximately 3-4 minutes). Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
Remove the skillet from heat and let it cool slightly. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed spinach mixture with crumbled feta cheese and grated Parmesan (if using). Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Turnovers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Once the dough has chilled, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Use a round cutter or a bowl to cut out circles of about 5 inches in diameter.
Place a generous tablespoon of filling in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill, as it may cause the turnover to burst during baking.
Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together firmly to seal, then crimp with a fork for an attractive finish.
Place the turnovers on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg (or a splash of plant-based milk for vegan options) for a golden color.

Step 4: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until the turnovers are golden brown and flaky. You’ll know they’re done when they spring back lightly when touched.
Once out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

Special Notes

To ensure the best results with your spinach and feta turnovers, consider the following tips:

Storing: Unbaked turnovers can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours covered tightly with plastic wrap. Baked turnovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days.
Reheating: To reheat baked turnovers, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Advance Prep: You can prepare the dough and filling a day ahead. Just assemble and bake on the day you want to serve.
Troubleshooting: If you find the dough too sticky, sprinkle it lightly with flour while rolling. If the filling is too wet, squeeze excess moisture from the spinach before combining.

Variations and Customizations

These spinach and feta turnovers can be easily customized to suit various dietary needs and flavor preferences:

Vegan Option: For a completely vegan version, replace feta cheese with crumbled tofu mixed with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, and use a plant-based butter in the crust.
Gluten-Free: Swap out all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate those with gluten sensitivity.
Low-Carb: Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour, and bake a low-carb version of this classic dish.
Additional Fillings: Consider adding sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, or diced peppers for a flavor boost!

Nutritional Information

Below is an estimated breakdown of nutrients per serving (based on 12 servings):

Calories: 210
Protein: 6g
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 2g

Engaging Visual Details

As you prepare and bake your spinach and feta turnovers, take note of the delightful aromas filling your kitchen. From the moment the dough is rolled out to when the turnovers are golden brown, you’ll be met with a feast for the senses. The golden tops gleaming from the egg wash, the vibrant green filling peeking out, and the crisp, flaky crust will make it hard to resist devouring them fresh out of the oven.

Consider photographing the various stages, such as the mixing of the dough, the folding of the turnovers, and the beautifully baked final product, to showcase your cooking journey. A short video demonstrating the assembly could also help visualize the process for eager cooks.

Conclusion

These Spinach and feta turnovers are a fantastic way to incorporate healthy greens into your diet while treating your taste buds to a burst of flavor. With easy-to-follow instructions, the ability to customize them to suit your dietary needs, and their mouthwatering aroma and taste, they are bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Don’t hesitate to try this simple yet delightful recipe and bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your dining table.

Have you tried making these turnovers? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below! Share your version on Instagram and tag us with MyDeliciousDish to show us how your delightful creations turned out!