Spinach and feta strudel

Spinach and feta strudel: a simple and delicious recipe for a savory dessert

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4

This spinach and feta strudel is a perfect choice for a quick meal or an elegant appetizer. The combination of fresh or frozen spinach and feta cheese in a crispy pastry sheet is both comforting and healthy. Here’s how to make it step by step!

Ingredients:
- 1 package of puff pastry (about 250 g) – you can also use pie dough
- 300 g fresh or frozen spinach (if using frozen spinach, let it thaw)
- 200 g feta cheese
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 egg, beaten (for brushing)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for decoration)

Preparation:

1. Start by preheating the oven to 200°C. It is essential that the temperature is right to achieve a crispy and golden strudel.

2. In a large skillet, add the olive oil and sauté the onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent and slightly golden, about 5-7 minutes. This will add a delicious flavor to the dish.

3. Add the spinach to the skillet, mixing well. If using frozen spinach, ensure it is well-thawed and pressed to remove excess water. Cook the spinach for 5-10 minutes until it wilts and reduces. Season with salt and pepper, and if desired, add the lemon juice for a splash of acidity that will balance the flavors.

4. When the mixture is ready, remove the skillet from the heat and let it cool slightly. Then, add the crumbled feta cheese and mix well to combine the ingredients.

5. Roll out the puff pastry on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If using pie dough, make sure it is thin and even enough. You can roll it out a bit if necessary.

6. Evenly distribute the spinach and feta mixture over the pastry, leaving a margin of about 2 cm. Carefully roll the pastry into a cylinder, ensuring that the edges are well-sealed to avoid leaks.

7. Brush the surface of the strudel with the beaten egg to give it an attractive golden color during baking. If desired, sprinkle sesame seeds on top for a crunchy and decorative look.

8. Bake the strudel in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until golden and crispy. Check it occasionally to ensure it doesn’t burn.

9. Once the strudel is ready, let it cool slightly before slicing. It is served warm or at room temperature, perfect alongside a green salad or as an appetizer in a buffet.

Useful tips:
- You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as cottage cheese or ricotta, to change the texture and flavors.
- Add fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an extra flavor boost.
- If you want an even richer strudel, you can add some chopped nuts or pine nuts to the filling.

This spinach and feta strudel is not just a simple recipe but also an excellent way to incorporate vegetables into your diet. Enjoy it with family and friends and surprise them with a tasty and healthy dish!