Are you looking for a quick dinner idea that’s both impressive and healthy? Look no further! Filo pastry, with its delicate, flaky layers, offers endless possibilities for creating delicious savory dishes. These easy recipes are perfect for busy weeknights, yet sophisticated enough to impress guests. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking with these simple yet stunning savory filo creations!
Spinach and Feta Filo Triangles
This recipe is a fantastic example of how simple ingredients can create a truly delicious and satisfying meal. It's perfect as a light lunch, appetizer, or a side dish. The combination of spinach, feta, and herbs within the crispy filo pastry is simply irresistible.
Ingredients:
- 1 package (14.1 oz) filo pastry, thawed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 10 oz fresh spinach, chopped
- 4 oz feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 egg, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Filling: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened. Add the spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in feta, dill, and parsley. Allow to cool slightly.
- Assemble the Triangles: Lay out a sheet of filo pastry. Brush lightly with beaten egg. Top with another sheet of filo, brushing again with egg. Continue until you have used 2-3 sheets per triangle (depending on desired thickness).
- Fill and Bake: Spoon a generous amount of the spinach and feta mixture onto one corner of the filo stack. Fold the corners over to form a triangle. Repeat with remaining filo and filling.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the triangles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops lightly with egg wash. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm, ideally with a side salad or a simple yogurt dip.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Filo:
- Keep it Moist: Filo pastry dries out quickly. Keep unused sheets covered with a damp cloth to prevent them from becoming brittle.
- Brush Gently: Use a light hand when brushing the filo with egg wash. Too much will make it soggy.
- Don't Overcrowd: Give the triangles enough space on the baking sheet for even browning.
Variations:
- Mushroom and Gruyere: Substitute mushrooms and Gruyere cheese for the spinach and feta.
- Mediterranean Delight: Add sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and artichoke hearts to the spinach and feta filling.
- Spicy Chicken: Use shredded cooked chicken, chili flakes, and your favorite cheese.
Nutritional Information (per triangle, approximate):
- Calories: Around 150-200
- Fat: 8-12g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This recipe is a healthy and delicious addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. Enjoy the satisfying crunch of the filo and the flavorful filling! These savory filo pastries are guaranteed to become a family favorite. They're perfect for meal prepping too; simply make a batch and reheat for a quick and easy lunch or dinner throughout the week. Experiment with different fillings and create your own signature savory filo pastry dish!