Mushroom, Spinach, and Feta Bites with Rosemary: A Sophisticated, Flavor-Packed Appetizer

These Mushroom, Spinach, and Feta Bites with Rosemary are the ultimate elegant appetizer. They blend earthy mushrooms, vibrant spinach, creamy feta, and fragrant rosemary in a crispy, golden-brown pastry shell, creating a mouthwatering experience in every bite. Perfect for entertaining guests or as a delicious snack, these bites are surprisingly simple to prepare and bursting with flavor.


Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried rosemary)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¾ cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 12 sheets of phyllo pastry dough (or substitute with puff pastry if preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (or olive oil, for brushing)

Preparation:

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently until softened and translucent.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
  3. Add the mushrooms to the skillet and sauté for 5–6 minutes, until they release their moisture and become golden brown.
  4. Toss in the chopped spinach and stir until wilted, about 2 minutes.
  5. Season with rosemary, salt, and pepper, then remove from heat and let the mixture cool for a few minutes.
  6. Once cooled, transfer to a large bowl and fold in the feta cheese and beaten egg. Mix until well combined and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Phyllo Pastry

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. On a clean, dry surface, lay out one sheet of phyllo pastry and brush it lightly with melted butter. Place another sheet on top and brush again, repeating until you have a stack of three sheets.
  3. Cut the phyllo stack into 4-inch squares (you should get about 8–10 squares from a single phyllo stack).

Step 3: Fill and Shape the Bites

  1. Place a heaping tablespoon of the mushroom and feta filling in the center of each phyllo square.
  2. Gather the corners of the square towards the center, gently pinching to seal and form a small bundle. Place each bundle onto the prepared baking sheet.
  3. Repeat the process with the remaining phyllo and filling until all of the filling is used.

Step 4: Bake the Bites

  1. Brush the tops of each phyllo bundle with a bit more melted butter to help them turn golden brown.
  2. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the phyllo pastry is crisp and golden.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

  1. Remove the bites from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before serving. These are best enjoyed warm but can also be served at room temperature.

COOKING Notes:

  • Phyllo Pastry Handling: Phyllo dough can dry out quickly, so keep any unused sheets covered with a damp cloth while assembling the bites.
  • Flavor Variations: For a richer flavor, try adding a dash of balsamic vinegar to the mushroom mixture during cooking or substitute fresh dill for rosemary.
  • Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge. You can also assemble the bites up to the baking stage, cover them, and refrigerate for a few hours before baking.

Serving Suggestions:

These Mushroom, Spinach, and Feta Bites are versatile and perfect for various occasions:

  • Appetizers for Entertaining: Arrange on a platter with a garnish of fresh rosemary sprigs or a sprinkle of grated parmesan.
  • Holiday Parties or Brunch Buffets: Serve alongside a selection of dips like hummus or tzatziki for added flavor.
  • Pairing Tip: These bites pair beautifully with crisp, dry white wines or sparkling options like prosecco.

Tips:

  • Substitute Options: Puff pastry can replace phyllo dough for a slightly different texture. Adjust baking time to 15–17 minutes if using puff pastry.
  • Cheese Alternatives: Crumbled goat cheese works well in place of feta for a creamier texture.
  • Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in a low oven to maintain crispness.

Prep Time:

20 minutes

Cooking Time:

20 minutes

Total Time:

40 minutes


Nutritional Information (per bite):

  • Calories: 90
  • Protein: 3g
  • Sodium: 125mg

Conclusion

These Mushroom, Spinach, and Feta Bites with Rosemary are the perfect balance of flavors and textures, from earthy mushrooms and savory feta to the crisp, buttery phyllo exterior. Ideal for entertaining or as an everyday snack, this appetizer will quickly become a favorite. The ease of preparation and elegant presentation make these bites a fantastic addition to any menu. Enjoy them hot from the oven or at room temperature, and watch as they disappear from the table!

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Mushroom, Spinach, and Feta Bites with Rosemary: A Sophisticated, Flavor-Packed Appetizer


  • Author: Imili Johnson
  • Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried rosemary)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¾ cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 12 sheets of phyllo pastry dough (or substitute with puff pastry if preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (or olive oil, for brushing)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently until softened and translucent.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
  3. Add the mushrooms to the skillet and sauté for 5–6 minutes, until they release their moisture and become golden brown.
  4. Toss in the chopped spinach and stir until wilted, about 2 minutes.
  5. Season with rosemary, salt, and pepper, then remove from heat and let the mixture cool for a few minutes.
  6. Once cooled, transfer to a large bowl and fold in the feta cheese and beaten egg. Mix until well combined and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Phyllo Pastry

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. On a clean, dry surface, lay out one sheet of phyllo pastry and brush it lightly with melted butter. Place another sheet on top and brush again, repeating until you have a stack of three sheets.
  3. Cut the phyllo stack into 4-inch squares (you should get about 8–10 squares from a single phyllo stack).

Step 3: Fill and Shape the Bites

  1. Place a heaping tablespoon of the mushroom and feta filling in the center of each phyllo square.
  2. Gather the corners of the square towards the center, gently pinching to seal and form a small bundle. Place each bundle onto the prepared baking sheet.
  3. Repeat the process with the remaining phyllo and filling until all of the filling is used.

Step 4: Bake the Bites

  1. Brush the tops of each phyllo bundle with a bit more melted butter to help them turn golden brown.
  2. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the phyllo pastry is crisp and golden.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

  1. Remove the bites from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before serving. These are best enjoyed warm but can also be served at room temperature.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes

Nutrition

  • Calories: 90
  • Sodium: 125mg
  • Protein: 3g

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