If you’ve been craving a delightful, savory treat that’s both packed with flavor and easy on the tummy, you are going to love this Easy Gluten-Free Spinach and Feta Parcels Recipe. These golden, crispy parcels are filled with a rich blend of fresh spinach, tangy feta, and fragrant herbs all wrapped in delicate gluten-free phyllo pastry. They make the perfect snack, appetizer, or light meal and are surprisingly simple to prepare. Whether you need a quick bite for guests or want to enjoy a comforting homemade favorite, this recipe hits all the right notes with minimal fuss and maximum taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the essentials for this dish is a breeze, and the ingredients each bring something special to the table — from vibrant greens to creamy cheese and aromatic herbs. Nothing is complicated here, just fresh and flavorful components that work beautifully together to create those irresistible parcels.
- 250 g fresh spinach: This provides a lush, earthy base that wilts perfectly for the filling.
- 150 g feta cheese, crumbled: Adds tangy creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the spinach.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Brings subtle sweetness enhanced by sautéing.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses savory depth and fragrant aroma to the mixture.
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped: Offers a burst of refreshing herbaceous flavor.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a mild, bright note and color.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Complements the filling with a hint of Mediterranean warmth.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing and enriching flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for perfectly balanced seasoning.
- 8 sheets gluten-free phyllo pastry: Choose quality pastry for that signature flaky texture.
- 3 tablespoons melted butter or olive oil: To brush the pastry and achieve a golden, crisp finish.
How to Make Easy Gluten-Free Spinach and Feta Parcels Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
First things first, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) so it’s ready when your parcels are assembled. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup after baking these golden gems.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the finely chopped onion until it turns translucent and tender, then add minced garlic and cook for just one more minute. This step builds the flavorful foundation your spinach filling needs.
Step 3: Cook the Spinach
Add the chopped fresh spinach to the skillet. Stir it gently until it wilts down completely. This reduces the volume and concentrates the flavors. Once cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly to avoid melting the cheese later.
Step 4: Mix the Filling
In a bowl, combine the sautéed spinach mixture with crumbled feta cheese, fresh dill, parsley, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything gently but thoroughly so each bite bursts with balanced, fresh, and tangy flavors.
Step 5: Prepare the Phyllo Sheets
Lay one sheet of gluten-free phyllo pastry on a clean, flat surface and brush it lightly with melted butter or olive oil. Stack a second sheet on top and brush again. This layering ensures your parcels will be crisp and flaky once baked.
Step 6: Assemble the Parcels
Cut the layered pastry into 4 equal squares. Spoon a generous amount of the spinach and feta filling onto each square. Carefully fold each square into a neat parcel, sealing the edges by pressing them together gently but firmly to keep all the delicious filling inside while baking.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the parcels on your prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with extra melted butter or olive oil for that irresistible golden shine and crispiness. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the parcels are beautifully browned and the aroma fills your kitchen with pure delight.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, let the parcels cool for a few minutes. This allows the filling to set slightly, making them easier to handle and even more enjoyable to eat.
How to Serve Easy Gluten-Free Spinach and Feta Parcels Recipe
Garnishes
To make these parcels even more inviting, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or dill over the top just before serving. A light drizzle of lemon juice or a side of tangy yogurt dip enhances their bright, fresh flavors superbly.
Side Dishes
These parcels pair wonderfully with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or a bowl of warm tomato soup. They add a satisfying savory contrast and make your meal feel complete without overshadowing the parcels themselves.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming party platter, arrange the parcels creatively with olives, cucumber slices, and cherry tomatoes on a wooden board. Serve with small bowls of tzatziki or hummus to delight all your guests with both visual appeal and a vibrant burst of Mediterranean flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They stay crisp if you let them cool completely before sealing, but be sure to enjoy them soon as the pastry is best fresh.
Freezing
These parcels freeze surprisingly well. After assembling but before baking, place them on a baking sheet in the freezer until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 1 month, giving you a quick, delicious snack whenever you want.
Reheating
For the crispiest results, reheat frozen or refrigerated parcels in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving to keep that iconic flaky texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen spinach can be used as a substitute. Make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess water before mixing with the other ingredients to avoid soggy parcels.
Is there a dairy-free alternative to feta cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use dairy-free cheese alternatives or even firm tofu seasoned with nutritional yeast and lemon juice for a tangy, creamy filling that suits dairy-free diets.
What type of gluten-free phyllo pastry is best?
Look for a high-quality store-bought gluten-free phyllo pastry that is thawed properly before use. Some brands offer excellent flaky textures that closely mimic traditional phyllo.
Can these parcels be made vegan?
Yes, by replacing the feta with a vegan cheese alternative and using olive oil instead of butter for brushing, you can create a delicious vegan version that maintains the original’s flavor charm.
How can I make the parcels crispier?
Ensuring you brush each phyllo layer generously with melted butter or olive oil and baking them at the right temperature will result in perfectly crispy, flaky parcels every time.
Final Thoughts
These Easy Gluten-Free Spinach and Feta Parcels Recipe are truly a little piece of Mediterranean magic that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Their buttery, herb-filled layers paired with tangy feta create an unforgettable flavor that’s sure to become a household favorite. Give this recipe a try—you’ll be delighted at how effortlessly it comes together and how deeply satisfying every bite tastes.
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Easy Gluten-Free Spinach and Feta Parcels Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Easy Gluten Free Spanakopita Parcels are a delicious and crispy Greek-inspired appetizer or snack made with fresh spinach, feta cheese, and gluten-free phyllo pastry. Perfectly seasoned with herbs and baked to golden perfection, these parcels offer a delightful combination of flaky texture and savory filling that everyone can enjoy.
Ingredients
Filling
- 250 g fresh spinach, washed and chopped
- 150 g feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pastry
- 8 sheets gluten-free phyllo pastry (store-bought or homemade)
- 3 tablespoons melted butter or olive oil (for brushing)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Sauté onion and garlic: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Cook spinach: Add the washed and chopped fresh spinach to the skillet. Cook until wilted, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly to avoid wilting the herbs and cheese during mixing.
- Prepare filling: In a bowl, combine the cooled spinach mixture with crumbled feta cheese, chopped fresh dill, parsley, dried oregano, and season with salt and pepper. Mix well to incorporate all ingredients.
- Prepare phyllo sheets: Place one sheet of gluten-free phyllo pastry on a clean surface and brush lightly with melted butter or olive oil. Layer a second sheet on top and brush again to help the sheets stick together and become crisp when baked.
- Cut and fill pastry: Cut the layered phyllo sheets into 4 equal squares. Spoon a portion of the spinach and feta filling onto the center of each square.
- Form parcels: Carefully fold each square into a parcel shape, sealing the edges by pressing gently with your fingers to keep the filling enclosed during baking.
- Prepare for baking: Place the sealed parcels onto the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with additional melted butter or olive oil to promote browning and flakiness.
- Bake: Bake the parcels in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Cool and serve: Remove from the oven and allow the spanakopita parcels to cool slightly before serving. This helps the filling set and prevents burning your mouth.
Notes
- Use fresh gluten-free phyllo pastry or homemade for best results and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free for those with sensitivities.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute feta cheese with a vegan cheese alternative.
- Adjust the amount of salt depending on the saltiness of the feta.
- These parcels can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving for convenience.
- If phyllo sheets are brittle, cover with a damp cloth while working to prevent drying out.
