Chef Mitchell preparing Savory Spiral Pastry
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I first discovered the concept of Savory Spiral Pastry during a trip to Greece and was instantly captivated by the combination of flavors. After experimenting with various fillings, I perfected this recipe to share with friends and family. It's become a staple at my gatherings, bringing a touch of the Mediterranean to every table."

With over a decade of experience in Mediterranean cuisine, I specialize in creating appetizers that showcase vibrant flavors. My passion for cooking began in my grandmother's kitchen, where I learned the importance of fresh ingredients and traditional techniques.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Savory Spiral Pastry served on a plate

Why This Savory Spiral Pastry Recipe Works

This Savory Spiral Pastry recipe stands out due to its unique combination of flavors and textures. The crispy phyllo pastry encases a rich filling of spinach, feta cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes, creating a perfect bite-sized treat. Each spiral is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients, making them a great option for health-conscious eaters.

The technique of layering phyllo dough and using a variety of fillings allows for versatility and creativity in presentation. The result is a beautifully golden pastry that marries crispness with a moist and flavorful interior.

💡 Professional Tip

When working with phyllo dough, it's essential to keep the sheets covered with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out. Additionally, brushing each layer with oil ensures a flaky, crispy texture once baked. Don't rush the rolling process; a tight roll will help maintain the shape during baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the Savory Spiral Pastry ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just ensure that you cover it well with plastic wrap to prevent the dough from drying out. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge and bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold.

If you don't have feta cheese, you can substitute it with goat cheese, ricotta, or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile. Each of these options will bring a unique taste to the filling while still maintaining creaminess.

The Savory Spiral Pastry is done when it is golden brown on top and crispy to the touch. You can also check the bottom; it should feel firm and not soggy. If you give it a gentle tap, a hollow sound indicates that it is fully baked.

Yes, you can freeze Savory Spiral Pastry either before baking or after. If freezing before baking, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container. To bake from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. If freezing after baking, allow them to cool completely before wrapping and storing.

Savory Spiral Pastry pairs well with a variety of dips such as tzatziki, hummus, or a spicy red pepper dip. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad or as part of a Mediterranean mezze platter for a colorful appetizer spread.

Savory Spiral Pastry can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when properly covered. To maintain their crispness, it's best to reheat them in the oven rather than the microwave.

Absolutely! You can prepare the Savory Spiral Pastry a day in advance, store them in the fridge, and bake them just before serving. This way, you can save time and still enjoy fresh, warm pastries straight from the oven.

The best way to reheat Savory Spiral Pastry is to place them on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This method helps restore their crispy texture without drying them out.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If your Savory Spiral Pastry turns out too dry, it might be due to overbaking or not using enough filling.

Solution: To prevent this, keep an eye on the baking time and ensure you fill the pastries adequately before rolling them. A little extra olive oil brushed on top before baking can also help.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the pastry is not as crispy as you'd like, it may be due to insufficient brushing with olive oil or baking at a lower temperature.

Solution: Make sure to brush each layer of phyllo generously with oil, and bake at the recommended temperature to achieve that desired crunch.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooked Savory Spiral Pastry can become too hard or burnt.

Prevention: To avoid this, set a timer and check the pastries towards the end of the baking time. If you notice they are browning too quickly, cover them with foil for the rest of the baking time.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: If the outer layer is browned but the center feels undercooked, it may need more time in the oven.

Recovery: If this happens, return the pastry to the oven, cover it with foil, and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the center to cook through without burning the outer layer.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: A burnt exterior can happen if the oven temperature is too high or if the pastries are placed too close to the heating element.

Prevention: To prevent this, ensure your oven is calibrated correctly, and place the baking sheet on the middle rack for even cooking.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the pastry is too sweet, check the filling ingredients and reduce any sweet components like sun-dried tomatoes. Add more savory elements like herbs or spices to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: If the filling is too salty, try adding a small amount of sugar to counterbalance the saltiness, or serve with a mild yogurt dip to balance the flavors.

Bland: To fix bland pastry, incorporate more herbs, spices, or cheese into the filling for an assertive flavor boost.

Fresh ingredients for Savory Spiral Pastry

Essential Ingredients for Savory Spiral Pastry

The main ingredients for Savory Spiral Pastry include phyllo dough, fresh spinach, and a blend of cheeses. Phyllo dough is key for achieving that flaky, crispy texture that makes this pastry so delightful.

Using high-quality ingredients is crucial, especially when it comes to cheese and fresh vegetables. Opt for organic spinach and good-quality feta to enhance the flavor of your dish.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Phyllo Dough: Keep phyllo dough covered with a damp cloth while assembling to prevent it from drying out. Always use multiple layers for the best flakiness.
  • Feta Cheese: Choose a good quality feta cheese for a creamier texture. Crumble it fresh for the best flavor and avoid overly salty brands.
  • Spinach: Fresh spinach is preferable, but you can use frozen if needed. Ensure to drain excess moisture from frozen spinach to prevent sogginess in the pastry.
Cooking process for Savory Spiral Pastry

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Creating Savory Spiral Pastry involves a straightforward process of layering, filling, and rolling. Each step is designed to ensure maximum flavor while keeping the preparation simple and accessible.

By following the outlined steps carefully, you will achieve a perfectly baked pastry that is crispy on the outside and rich in flavor on the inside, making it a memorable dish for any occasion.

Key Technique for Perfect Savory Spiral Pastry

The key to perfect Savory Spiral Pastry lies in the careful handling of phyllo dough. Ensuring each layer is adequately brushed with oil and rolled tightly will result in that sought-after flaky texture. Patience is essential—take your time with each step for the best outcome.

Savory Spiral Pastry

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    Extra virgin preferred
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
    Freshly squeezed
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
    For flavor enhancement

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken
    Cut into pieces
  • 1 lb phyllo pastry
    Thawed
  • 2 cups spinach, chopped
    Fresh
  • 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
    For filling
  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
    Creamy texture
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
    Adds a tangy flavor
  • 1/4 cup olives, sliced
    Black or green
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
    For crunch
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
    For seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
    To taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    To taste
  • 1 egg, beaten
    For egg wash
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
    For brushing

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Filling

    In a large bowl, combine spinach, feta cheese, ricotta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, pine nuts, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.

  2. Prepare Phyllo Dough

    Lay one sheet of phyllo pastry on a clean surface and brush with olive oil. Place another sheet on top and brush with oil again.

  3. Add Filling

    Spread a portion of the filling along one edge of the phyllo sheets, leaving some space at the edges.

  4. Roll the Pastry

    Carefully roll the phyllo dough over the filling to create a log. Make sure to roll tightly for the best results.

  5. Form a Spiral

    Once the log is formed, coil it into a spiral shape and tuck the end underneath to secure.

  6. Repeat Process

    Repeat the process with the remaining phyllo sheets and filling until all ingredients are used.

  7. Prepare for Baking

    Place the spirals on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a golden finish.

  8. Bake

    Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

  9. Serve

    Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To keep Savory Spiral Pastry fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage, ensuring they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Serving Suggestions

Savory Spiral Pastry can be served on its own or with a variety of dips such as tzatziki or hummus. They also pair nicely with a fresh Mediterranean salad for a complete meal.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to experiment with different fillings like mushrooms, roasted peppers, or various cheeses. You can also add herbs like dill or parsley for extra flavor.