Christmas Spinach Feta Pinwheels Recipe

The holidays are upon us, and with them come gatherings, laughter, and of course, the need for simple yet crowd-pleasing recipes! These Christmas Spinach Feta Pinwheels are everything you want in a festive appetizer: crispy puff pastry, savory cheese filling, and a pop of green from spinach that feels just right for the season. Bonus? They’re super easy to make and look stunning on a platter.

Let me walk you through why this recipe deserves a place at your holiday table and how you can whip them up in no time.

Why You’ll Love These Spinach Feta Pinwheels

• Flavorful and Festive: The creamy tang of feta, the stretchy goodness of mozzarella, and the aromatic hint of nutmeg are perfectly balanced in these little bites.
• Visually Stunning: The swirls of green and gold make these pinwheels a picture-perfect addition to your holiday spread.
• Quick and Easy: With a few ingredients and minimal prep, they come together in no time—ideal for those busy holiday schedules.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Freeze them before baking and pop them into the oven when guests arrive. Easy peasy!

What Do They Taste Like?

Imagine buttery, flaky pastry filled with a creamy, cheesy blend that’s slightly tangy and perfectly seasoned, complemented by the earthiness of spinach. Every bite is a harmonious medley of textures and flavors that’ll leave your guests asking for seconds!

Benefits of This Recipe

• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love these cheesy delights.
• Vegetarian: Perfect for a holiday gathering with diverse dietary preferences.
• Versatile: They work as appetizers, snacks, or even a side dish for soups and salads.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 egg: Whisked with water for a golden egg wash finish.
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese: Buy a block for the best flavor and texture.
• ¼ cup grated mozzarella: For that gooey, cheesy stretch.
• 1 green onion: Adds a mild oniony kick.
• ½ tsp garlic salt: Enhances the savory flavors.
• A few grates of nutmeg: For a warm, festive touch.
• 1 (10-ounce) package frozen chopped spinach: Defrosted and squeezed dry to remove excess water.
• 1 sheet puff pastry: Look for a buttery brand like Dufour for the flakiest results.

Necessary Tools

• Parchment paper or a non-stick baking mat
• Rolling pin
• Sharp knife or pastry cutter
• Baking sheets

Ingredient Substitutions and Additions

• Cheese: Swap mozzarella for Gruyère or Parmesan for an elevated flavor.
• Seasoning: Add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick or Italian seasoning for a herbaceous note.
• Pastry: Use gluten-free puff pastry to cater to dietary needs.
• Extras: Toss in finely chopped roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of color and flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Egg Wash

In a small bowl, whisk the egg with a tablespoon of water. This will give the pinwheels their golden, glossy finish. Set aside.

2. Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled feta, grated mozzarella, chopped green onion, garlic salt, and nutmeg. Mix until evenly combined.

3. Prep the Puff Pastry

Lay the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and roll it out gently to smooth any seams. Brush the surface lightly with the egg wash, reserving the rest for later.

4. Spread the Filling

Evenly distribute the cheese mixture over the pastry, leaving about an inch of space on one of the short edges. Top with the spinach, breaking apart clumps to ensure even coverage.

5. Roll and Slice

Starting from the filled edge, roll the pastry tightly into a log. Slice into ½ to ¾-inch pieces and place them on parchment-lined baking sheets.

6. Chill

Refrigerate or freeze the slices for 10-15 minutes to firm up. This helps them hold their shape during baking.

7. Bake

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the pinwheels for 15 minutes, or until they’re puffed up and golden brown.

8. Serve

Let them cool slightly before serving. These are best enjoyed warm but are still delicious at room temperature!

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What to Serve with Spinach Feta Pinwheels

• Dipping Sauces: Serve with marinara, tzatziki, or a creamy garlic aioli.
• Soup Pairing: These pinwheels are perfect alongside tomato soup or butternut squash soup.
• Holiday Drinks: Pair with mulled wine or a sparkling holiday punch.

Tips for Perfect Pinwheels

• Chill Before Baking: Always refrigerate the pinwheels before baking to ensure they hold their shape.
• Don’t Overfill: Too much filling can make the pastry difficult to roll and bake evenly.
• Use a Sharp Knife: A clean cut ensures beautiful, defined swirls.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Freeze unbaked pinwheels on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

FAQs

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes, but you’ll need to cook and drain it thoroughly to remove excess moisture.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare and slice the pinwheels, then freeze them unbaked. Bake fresh when needed.

Can I use puff pastry alternatives?

Yes, crescent roll dough works in a pinch, though it won’t be as flaky.

Conclusion

These Christmas Spinach Feta Pinwheels are your answer to easy, elegant holiday entertaining. With their savory filling, flaky pastry, and festive appearance, they’re sure to impress your guests while keeping your stress levels low.

Looking for more festive recipes to complete your spread? Check out:

• Christmas Caprese Wreath: A Festive Holiday Delight
• Oh Christmas Brie Cheese Platter: A Festive Centerpiece for the Holidays
• Christmas Fig Pomegranate Wreath Salad: A Festive Showstopper

Don’t forget to pin this recipe for later on Pinterest and share your photos with us. We’d love to see your creations!

Nutritional Information (Per Pinwheel):
Calories: 110 | Protein: 4g | Carbohydrates: 9g | Fat: 7g | Fiber: 1g

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