Spinach and Ricotta Strudel
A crisp, golden pastry roll filled with savory greens, salty cheese, and toasted pine nuts
Why This Recipe Works
This strudel offers a streamlined alternative to traditional spanakopita, using layered phyllo for a shatteringly crisp crust. The addition of raisins and pine nuts adds subtle sweetness and crunch to the savory spinach and feta filling.
Instructions
Adjust the oven rack to the middle position and heat the oven to 400Β°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Mix the spinach, ricotta, feta, scallions, raisins, pine nuts, lemon juice, oregano, garlic, and nutmeg in a large bowl, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Layer the phyllo sheets on a clean counter, coating each sheet thoroughly with olive oil spray to ensure a light, flaky finish. Mound the spinach mixture into a narrow log along the bottom edge of the phyllo, leaving a 2-inch border at the bottom and a half-inch border on the sides.
Fold the bottom edge of the dough over the filling, then continue to roll the dough into a tight log, leaving the ends open. Transfer the strudel seam-side down to the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray with olive oil and cut four diagonal vents across the top to allow steam to escape during baking.
Bake until the pastry is golden brown and crisp, about 20 minutes, rotating the baking sheet halfway through for even color. Let the strudel cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to help the filling set before slicing. Serve warm, while the crust is still shatteringly crisp.
π½οΈ Complete the Meal
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze this recipe?
Best served immediately; leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and crisped in a 350Β°F oven.
Can I make this ahead of time?
The filling can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
What substitutions can I make?
- frozen chopped spinach: fresh steamed spinach, squeezed very dry