Spanakopita Twists (Crispy Spinach & Feta Phyllo Spirals)

Ingredients

• 1 pound (454g) #4 phyllo pastry, thawed and at room temperature
• 12 ounces (340g) salted butter, melted
• 1 pound (454g) fresh spinach leaves, coarsely chopped
• 3 teaspoons dried dill
• 6 scallions, thinly sliced
• 15 ounces (425g) ricotta cheese
• 1 pound (454g) feta cheese, crumbled
• 3 eggs
• 3–4 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
• 1 cup (60g) panko breadcrumbs

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking trays with parchment paper.

2. 2

   Prepare the filling. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the feta and ricotta cheeses. Add the dill, salt, black pepper, olive oil, and scallions. Mix until combined.

3. 3

   Add the chopped spinach in batches, mixing until fully incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

4. 4

   In a small bowl, whisk the eggs and add them to the filling. Mix on low speed until just incorporated.

5. 5

   Stir in the panko breadcrumbs. The breadcrumbs help absorb excess moisture and keep the twists crisp.

6. 6

   To assemble, place one sheet of phyllo on your work surface and brush lightly with melted butter. Place a second sheet on top and brush again with butter.

7. 7

   Gently scrunch the phyllo from both long sides toward the center, keeping the middle slightly relaxed.

8. 8

   Spread a line of the spinach filling along the length of the pastry. Do not overfill.

9. 9

   Fold gently over the filling and twist loosely into a rope or spiral shape, similar to the sweet phyllo twists. Avoid twisting too tightly.

10. 10

    Place on the prepared baking tray and repeat with the remaining phyllo and filling.

11. 11

    Brush the tops generously with melted butter.

12. 12

    Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until deeply golden and crisp. For extra crispness, move the tray to the lower rack for the final 5–10 minutes if needed.

13. 13

    Allow the twists to rest for 10–15 minutes before serving.

14. 14

    Kali Orexi!