Save Mini Spanakopita Triangle Clusters are a beloved Greek appetizer that bring together flaky, golden phyllo pastry with a rich, savory filling of spinach, feta, and fresh herbs. These crispy little triangles, baked tightly together in a pull-apart cluster, make for a perfect finger food that's as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you're preparing them for a party or a special meal, their irresistible texture and bright flavors are sure to impress.
Save This recipe skillfully balances flaky texture with a creamy, herby filling, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Preparing the filling just right ensures every bite bursts with the perfect mix of spinach, cheese, and fragrant herbs. Folding the triangles takes a bit of practice but is a fun step that rewards you with beautifully shaped appetizers.
Ingredients
- Filling
300 g (10 oz) fresh spinach, washed and chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
1 small yellow onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
200 g (7 oz) feta cheese, crumbled
100 g (3.5 oz) ricotta cheese
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried dill)
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
¼ tsp ground nutmeg
½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
¼ tsp salt - Pastry
12 sheets phyllo dough, thawed if frozen
100 g (7 tbsp) unsalted butter, melted
2 tbsp olive oil - Topping
1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)
1 tbsp nigella seeds (optional)
Instructions
- 1. Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- 3. Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted and excess liquid has evaporated, about 4–5 minutes. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
- 4. In a large bowl, combine the spinach mixture, feta, ricotta, eggs, dill, parsley, nutmeg, pepper, and salt. Mix well.
- 5. Unroll the phyllo dough and keep it covered with a damp towel. Take one sheet at a time, brush lightly with melted butter, and fold lengthwise into a long strip (about 7 cm/3 in wide).
- 6. Place a heaping teaspoon of filling at the bottom of the strip. Fold the corner over the filling to form a triangle, then continue folding up the strip, maintaining the triangle shape. Repeat with all phyllo sheets and filling.
- 7. Arrange the triangles closely together in a circular or cluster pattern on the prepared baking sheet, so they touch but don’t overlap.
- 8. Brush the tops with remaining melted butter mixed with 2 tbsp olive oil. Sprinkle with sesame and nigella seeds if desired.
- 9. Bake for 22–25 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp. Cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To get perfectly crisp and golden triangles, make sure the phyllo is brushed evenly with butter and folded tightly around the filling. Keep unused phyllo covered with a damp towel to prevent drying out during assembly. Allow the spinach mixture to cool before combining with cheeses and eggs to maintain a smooth filling.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a fresh twist, add a pinch of lemon zest to the filling for bright, citrusy notes. If spinach isn’t available, try substituting Swiss chard or kale to vary the flavor and texture while keeping the recipe vegetarian.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these mini Spanakopita clusters warm alongside traditional Greek dips like tzatziki or a lemony yogurt sauce. They make excellent finger foods at parties or a savory starter to a Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Save With its perfect balance of crisp pastry and creamy filling, this mini Spanakopita recipe is an authentic taste of Greece that’s both impressive and approachable. Whether for casual get-togethers or festive occasions, these golden triangles will delight and satisfy your guests bite after bite.
Recipe Guide
- → How do I keep phyllo dough from drying out?
Keep the phyllo sheets covered with a damp towel while working to prevent them from drying and cracking.
- → Can I substitute other greens for spinach?
Yes, Swiss chard or kale make excellent alternatives and provide a similar texture and flavor.
- → What is the best way to achieve a crispy texture?
Brushing each phyllo layer with melted butter and arranging the triangles closely ensures a crisp, golden finish after baking.
- → Can these be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the triangles and freeze them unbaked. Bake directly from frozen, adding about 5 extra minutes to the cooking time.
- → What dips pair well with these phyllo triangles?
Tzatziki or a lemon-yogurt dip complements the flavors and adds a refreshing contrast to the crispy bites.