Easy Spinach & Feta Phyllo Rolls That Burst with Flaky Goodness

Katherine

Honoring generations of culinary artistry.

Spinach & Feta Phyllo Rolls (Vegetarian)

There’s something utterly irresistible about the crisp, golden layers of phyllo dough wrapped around a savory filling. When I first combined fresh spinach with creamy feta cheese, the result was pure magic—each bite bursting with Mediterranean flavors and just the right hint of tang. These Spinach & Feta Phyllo Rolls (Vegetarian) quickly became my go-to for a light lunch, an impressive appetizer, or a crowd-pleasing snack that feels homemade but looks fancy. Best of all, they’re surprisingly simple to make, perfect for anyone craving delicious, wholesome food without the fast-food guilt. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook looking for something fresh and fun, these rolls bring comfort and elegance to your table in every flaky bite.

Why love Spinach & Feta Phyllo Rolls?

Flaky Perfection: Crispy phyllo layers create an irresistible crunch every time. Fresh, Vibrant Filling: Spinach and feta blend delivers a tangy, wholesome flavor punch. Quick & Easy: Minimal ingredients and simple steps make prep a breeze. Versatile Serving: Ideal as a light lunch, snack, or elegant appetizer. Crowd-Pleaser: Homemade charm that impresses without fuss or fast-food guilt.

Spinach & Feta Phyllo Rolls Ingredients

For the Filling

Fresh spinach – Use young, tender leaves for a vibrant, mild taste that complements feta.
Feta cheese – Crumbled for creamy texture and tangy flavor; opt for block feta over pre-crumbled for freshness.
Onion – Finely chopped and sautéed to add sweetness and depth to the filling.
Garlic – Minced to infuse the mix with traditional Mediterranean warmth.
Olive oil – Used for sautéing and brushing phyllo, enhancing richness and crispiness.
Salt & black pepper – Season generously to balance spinach’s earthiness and feta’s saltiness.

For the Phyllo Rolls

Phyllo dough sheets – Thawed gently to prevent tearing; brush each sheet with olive oil for that signature flaky crunch.
Butter or olive oil – For brushing layers to achieve golden, crisp pastries—olive oil keeps it lighter and vegan-friendly.

Optional Extras

Fresh dill or mint – Adds a fresh herbal note that brightens the filling.
Lemon zest – A tiny sprinkle can enhance the tangy profile and elevate flavor complexity.

This Spinach & Feta Phyllo Rolls (Vegetarian) ingredient combo brings together simplicity and flavor in every fold.

How to Make Spinach & Feta Phyllo Rolls

For the Filling:

Heat oil: Warm 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, add finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent and golden (about 3 minutes).
Sauté spinach: Add minced garlic, cooking until fragrant (30 seconds), then stir in fresh spinach leaves until wilted and bright green (2–3 minutes).
Combine filling: Transfer mixture to a bowl, fold in crumbled feta cheese and fresh dill (if using), then season with salt and black pepper to taste.

For Assembly & Baking:

Preheat oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and even browning.
Layer phyllo: Place one phyllo sheet on a clean surface, brush gently with olive oil, top with a second sheet, and brush again.
Fill & roll: Spoon about 2 tbsp of filling near one short edge, fold in sides snugly, and roll up into a neat cylinder.
Bake rolls: Arrange seam-side down on the prepared sheet, bake for 20–25 minutes until the phyllo is deeply golden and irresistibly crisp.
Rest & serve: Let rolls cool on the sheet for 5 minutes so layers set, then transfer to a platter and enjoy warm.

Optional: Sprinkle extra lemon zest over warm rolls for brightness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Spinach & Feta Phyllo Rolls are ideal for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy their flaky goodness without the last-minute rush. You can prepare the filling up to 3 days in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. For a streamlined process, you can also layer and roll the phyllo dough ahead of time—just wrap the assembled rolls tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, place them directly on a baking sheet and bake as instructed, ensuring they remain crisp and delicious while saving you valuable time during busy weeknights.

Variations & Substitutions for Spinach & Feta Phyllo Rolls

Feel free to get creative with these delightful rolls and adapt them to your taste and dietary needs for a personal touch!

Dairy-Free: Substitute feta with crumbled tofu mixed with nutritional yeast for a creamy, tangy kick without dairy.
Herb Infusion: Add chopped fresh basil or parsley to the filling for a bright, aromatic twist that complements the spinach beautifully.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes into the filling for a subtle heat that elevates the savory flavor profile.
Mediterranean Burst: Toss in some sun-dried tomatoes or Kalamata olives for added umami and tanginess that transports you straight to the shores of Greece.
Whole Wheat Phyllo: Use whole wheat phyllo dough for a heartier, more wholesome version that adds a nutty flavor and boosts fiber intake.
Meat Option: For a non-vegetarian twist, mix in cooked, crumbled sausage or shredded chicken into the filling for a protein-packed indulgence.
Nutty Crunch: Add a handful of chopped walnuts or pine nuts to the filling for an extra layer of texture and a delightful crunch.
Sweet Surprise: For a unique dessert, swap the spinach for sweetened ricotta and layer in some chocolate chips inside the phyllo for a decadent treat.

Let your imagination soar as you tailor these rolls to create something uniquely yours!

Expert Tips for Spinach & Feta Phyllo Rolls

Handle phyllo gently: Always thaw phyllo dough slowly in the fridge and keep covered with a damp cloth to prevent drying and tearing.
Sauté spinach properly: Cook spinach just until wilted; overcooking turns it mushy and affects the filling’s vibrant texture.
Brush phyllo layers thoroughly: Olive oil or butter between each sheet ensures that signature golden crispiness and prevents sogginess.
Seal edges tightly: Fold in sides snugly when rolling to keep filling from leaking during baking.
Season fillings well: Taste the spinach and feta mix before rolling to balance salt and pepper perfectly—remember feta adds saltiness.

What to Serve with Spinach & Feta Phyllo Rolls?

Complement your gathering with a delightful array of sides that elevate these flaky delights from good to extraordinary!

Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives provides a crisp, vibrant contrast to the warm rolls. The tangy dressing enhances the Mediterranean flavors beautifully.
Tzatziki Sauce: Creamy and tangy, this yogurt dip adds a cool balance to the savory filling. Each dip creates a delightful burst of flavor.
Roasted Red Pepper Hummus: The smooth, smoky notes of hummus pair perfectly with the crispy phyllo texture. Serve it with warm pita for an irresistible spread.
Lemon Orzo: This light, zesty side dish offers a lovely contrast to the richness of the feta. Its fluffy texture complements every bite, making for a more refreshing meal.
Sautéed Garlic Green Beans: Brighten your table with fresh green beans sautéed in garlic and olive oil. Their crunch adds an exciting texture and depth that works beautifully alongside the rolls.
Herbed Quinoa: Packed with protein and flavor, herbed quinoa provides a wholesome, nutty backdrop that lifts the whole meal. Its fluffiness creates enjoyment in every spoonful.
Sparkling Lemonade: This refreshing drink provides a bright, fizzy counterpoint to the savory dish, making it a perfect pairing for a light, sunny meal.
Baklava: End your meal on a sweet note with layers of flaky pastry and honey-soaked nuts. It’s the perfect finish, evoking those Mediterranean vibes down to the last bite.

Storage Tips for Spinach & Feta Phyllo Rolls

Room Temperature: Enjoy your Spinach & Feta Phyllo Rolls at room temperature for up to 2 hours after baking. This is perfect for serving at gatherings!
Fridge: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unbaked rolls for up to 2 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy frozen rolls, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes until heated through and golden.

Spinach & Feta Phyllo Rolls (Vegetarian) Recipe FAQs

What kind of spinach is best for Spinach & Feta Phyllo Rolls?
I recommend using young, tender spinach leaves—they have a mild flavor and soft texture that perfectly complements the tangy feta. Avoid mature spinach with dark spots or wilting leaves for the best fresh taste.

How should I store leftover Spinach & Feta Phyllo Rolls?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Before serving, reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes to bring back that beautiful flaky crispness without sogginess.

Can I freeze Spinach & Feta Phyllo Rolls? How?
Absolutely! Freeze the unbaked rolls for best results. Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, bake them straight from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until golden and crisp.

What if my phyllo dough tears while assembling?
No worries, phyllo is delicate! Keep your dough covered with a damp towel to prevent drying out. If a sheet tears, just patch it with another piece or overlap slightly. Brushing each layer gently with olive oil also helps keep the dough flexible and less prone to cracking.

Are these rolls safe for pets or suitable for those with dairy allergies?
Spinach itself is safe for pets in small amounts, but feta cheese contains salt and dairy, which may not be suitable for all animals. For dairy allergies, you can substitute feta with a vegan or nut-based cheese alternative to keep this recipe vegetarian and allergy-friendly. I often make this variation for friends who need dairy-free options!