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Spinach and Feta Spanakopita Cookies: A Savoury Greek-Inspired Treat

When it comes to flavourful snacks, few can rival the charm of Spanakopita – a traditional Greek pastry beloved by many. With its flaky pastry, rich spinach, and creamy feta filling, it embodies the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Now, imagine capturing those delightful flavours in a portable, bite-sized treat: enter Spanakopita cookies! These savoury cookies combine the classic ingredients found in Spanakopita with a modern twist, making them a perfect addition to any gathering or a delightful snack for any occasion.

The Origins of Spanakopita

Spanakopita has its roots in Greece, where it is often enjoyed as a main course or meze. This iconic dish typically features layers of buttery filo pastry enveloping a filling of spinach, feta cheese, herbs, and often a hint of nutmeg. It’s a dish that showcases the simplicity and beauty of Greek cooking — using quality ingredients to create something comforting and delicious.

The versatility of Spanakopita has inspired numerous adaptations, one of which is the creation of Spanakopita cookies. These cookies maintain the essence of the original dish while offering a new way to savour those flavours.

The Perfect Union of Ingredients

Spinach is the star of the show, bringing its earthy, vibrant taste and an impressive array of vitamins and minerals. It pairs beautifully with feta cheese, which adds a salty richness that balances the greens perfectly. Together, they create a filling rich in flavour and nutrition.

Adding herbs such as dill or parsley enhances the flavour profile, contributing a fresh note that makes these cookies feel light and airy. A touch of lemon zest can also be included for a zesty brightness that complements the spinach and feta.

The base for these cookies typically consists of buttery pastry, which, much like filo pastry, can be made to have a flaky texture while being easy to work with. The result is a crispy exterior that gives way to a flavour-packed interior.

Recipe: Spinach and Feta Spanakopita Cookies

Here’s how you can make these delightful treats at home:

Ingredients

For the pastry:

• 250g plain flour
• 125g unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 60ml cold water (adjust if necessary)

For the filling:

• 250g fresh spinach (or 200g frozen, thawed and drained)
• 150g feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 egg, beaten (for sealing)

Instructions

1. Make the pastry: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the chilled butter and rub it into the flour until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs. Gradually add cold water, mixing until a dough forms. Wrap the dough in cling film and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the filling: In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add the spinach and cook until wilted (or heated through if using frozen). Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Stir in the feta cheese, dill, lemon zest, nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper.

3. Assemble the cookies: Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan). Roll out the chilled pastry on a lightly floured surface to about 3mm thick. Cut into circles using a cookie cutter or glass. Place a teaspoon of the filling in the centre of each circle, then fold the pastry over to create a half-moon shape. Seal the edges using a fork and brush the tops with the beaten egg.

4. Bake: Arrange the cookies on a lined baking tray and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before enjoying.

Serving Suggestions

These Spinach and Feta Spanakopita Cookies are wonderfully versatile. Serve them warm or at room temperature as part of a meze platter alongside olives, tzatziki, and fresh pita bread. They also make for a fantastic picnic snack or an impressive appetiser at parties.

Conclusion

Spanakopita cookies beautifully encapsulate the classic flavours of Greece in a unique form that’s sure to delight. With their flaky texture and savoury filling, they offer a tasty twist on traditional Spanakopita. Whether you’re a fan of Greek cuisine or simply looking for a new snack to excite your palate, these cookies are a must-try. So why not whip up a batch and bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table?

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