Are you in need of some fantastic appetizer ideas for your brunches and dinners?
Well, I've got you covered with this delightful recipe that combines Greek flavors with a touch of Indian spice. Inspired by a dear Greek friend who shared this recipe with me years ago, these filo-savory pastries are sure to impress your guests. But don't worry, if you're not a fan of spiciness, feel free to skip the chili flakes. So, let's dive into this mouthwatering fusion of flavors!
Delicious and Spicy Greek-Inspired Filo Savory Pastries
The Ingredients
150g Spinach
150g Feta Cheese
250g Ricotta Cheese
25g Melted Butter
1/2 tsp Salt
1/2 tsp Pepper
1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
1 tbsp Mixed Herbs
1/2 tsp Chili Flakes (optional for spice lovers)
4-6 Filo Sheets
1 Onion (optional)
Here's how to create these delectable pastries:
Begin by spraying a large frying pan with oil and heating it over medium-high heat. Add butter to the pan and once it's slightly hot, toss in the onions (if using) and sauté them until they turn translucent. Then, add the spinach and 1/2 teaspoon of mixed herbs. Cook for about a minute or until the spinach wilts. Set this mixture aside to cool slightly.
While the spinach mixture is cooling, preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan-forced). Lightly grease a muffin pan.
Now, let's work with the filo pastry. Start with 6 sheets of filo, cutting them into quarters. Brush melted butter onto the sheets, then fold each one in half lengthways. Cut the folded sheets in half crossways, and layer the filo pieces on top of each other to create a cross shape. Gently press the layered filo into one muffin pan hole, slightly scrunching the edges of the pastry. Repeat these steps with the remaining filo pastry.
The Cheese Filling
In a bowl, combine the cooled spinach mixture with ricotta, feta, chili flakes (if desired), mixed herbs, garlic powder, salt (not too much, as the cheeses have salt in them), and pepper. Mix everything well until all the flavors meld together.
Divide the cheese and spinach mixture evenly among the filo cups in the muffin pan.
Bake and Serve
Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes or until the filling has just set and the pastry turns a beautiful golden color.
Once ready, these savory pastries are delightful on their own or paired with a refreshing Greek salad.
Now, it's time to dig in and savour the flavours of Greece with a spicy twist. These filo savoury pastries will surely become a favourite appetizer at your gatherings. So, give them a try and let me know what you think. Enjoy! 🍽️
Comments