Spanako-patties (Greek-style rissoles) Recipe

Here’s a recipe for Spanako-Patties, also known as Greek-style rissoles. These delicious pastries are filled with spinach and feta cheese, and they make a great appetizer or snack!

Spanako-Patties Recipe

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 1 pound (450g) fresh spinach (or 10 oz frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2-3 green onions, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup (150g) feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 egg
• ½ cup (15g) fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)
• ½ teaspoon salt (to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

For the Patties:

• 1 package of phyllo pastry (about 1 lb or 450g)
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted (or olive oil for a lighter option)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling:

• If using fresh spinach, wash and dry the leaves. Roughly chop the spinach.
• In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
• Add the green onions and garlic, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
• Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted (if using fresh), or heated through (if using frozen). Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
• In a mixing bowl, combine the spinach mixture with feta cheese, egg, dill, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Mix until well combined.

2. Assemble the Patties:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Take one sheet of phyllo pastry and brush it lightly with melted butter. Layer another sheet on top and brush it again.
• Cut the layered phyllo into strips about 3 inches wide.
• Place a tablespoon of the filling at one end of each strip. Fold the phyllo over the filling to create a triangle, and continue folding it over itself in a triangular shape until you reach the end of the strip.
• Place the finished patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with more melted butter.

3. Bake:

• Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

4. Serve:

• Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your Spanako-Patties warm or at room temperature!

Tips:

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling and assemble the patties in advance. Freeze them before baking, and bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Dipping Sauce: Serve with a yogurt-based sauce or tzatziki for added flavor.
• Variations: Feel free to add other ingredients to the filling, such as herbs (parsley, mint) or other cheeses (ricotta, kasseri).

Enjoy your delicious Spanako-Patties!