Name: Savory Mediterranean Pinwheels for Easy Entertaining
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Cream Cheese (or substitute with ricotta); 10 oz Frozen Chopped Spinach (thawed and squeezed dry); 1 cup Artichoke Hearts (chopped); 1 cup Crumbled Feta (or substitute with goat cheese); 1 cup Roasted Red Peppers (diced); 2 tbsp Fresh Dill (or less if using dried); 1/2 cup Kalamata Olives (chopped); 1 tbsp Lemon Zest (or substitute with lime zest); 1 tsp Kosher Salt (adjust to taste); 1/2 tsp Black Pepper; 1 cup All-purpose Flour (for dusting); 1 pkg Frozen Puff Pastry (thawed); 8 oz Low-Moisture Mozzarella; 1 large Egg (for egg wash)

As I was enjoying a sunny afternoon on my patio, the rich aroma of Mediterranean herbs wafted through the air, sparking a craving for something delicious and satisfying. That’s when I decided to whip up these Cheesy Mediterranean Puff Pastry Pinwheels! Not only are they a breeze to prepare, making them perfect for those impromptu gatherings, but they also double as a savory snack that will have everyone reaching for seconds. With their golden, flaky crust and a melty, cheesy filling packed with spinach and artichokes, these Mediterranean pinwheels are destined to be the star of your appetizer spread. Ready to elevate your snacking experience? Let’s dive into this delectable recipe together!

Why Are Mediterranean Pinwheels a Must-Try?

Simplicity: These pinwheels are super easy to whip up, making them ideal for beginners and experienced cooks alike.

Flavorful Filling: The combination of creamy cheeses, fresh spinach, and artichokes creates a vibrant taste that transports your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean coast.

Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for parties or family gatherings, these pinwheels are sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more.

Versatile: Feel free to customize the filling by swapping ingredients for what you have on hand, from cheeses to greens.

Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep these ahead of time and freeze them, ensuring you’re always ready for a snack or unexpected visitors.

Whether served warm as a savory appetizer or alongside a fresh salad for lunch, these Mediterranean Pinwheels will surely become a staple in your entertaining repertoire!

Mediterranean Pinwheels Ingredients

For the Filling

Cream Cheese – Adds creaminess and structure; feel free to substitute with ricotta for a lighter texture.
Frozen Chopped Spinach – Provides a fresh, vibrant flavor; make sure to squeeze dry to avoid sogginess.
Artichoke Hearts – Offers a briny, tangy element; you can use sun-dried tomatoes for a different taste.
Crumbled Feta – Adds salty richness; replace with goat cheese for creamier bites.
Roasted Red Peppers – Contributes sweetness and color; diced olives can enhance flavor for a bolder option.
Fresh Dill – Imparts herbal freshness; if using dried dill, remember that you’ll need less for a potent taste.
Kalamata Olives – Adds depth and brininess; green olives can be a great substitute for a milder flavor.
Lemon Zest – Enhances brightness; essential for balancing flavors, but lime zest works too for a unique twist.
Kosher Salt – Enhances overall flavor; adjust based on personal taste preference.
Black Pepper – Adds mild heat; white pepper offers a more subtle spice profile.

For the Dough

All-purpose Flour – For dusting; keeping surfaces floured ensures the pastry doesn’t stick.
Frozen Puff Pastry – The easy-to-use base for the pinwheels, providing a perfectly flaky texture; advanced bakers can try homemade pastry.
Low-Moisture Mozzarella – Adds that gooey cheesiness; Gouda gives a smokier option if desired.
Large Egg – For egg wash, delivering a glossy finish; milk can substitute for a lighter sheen.

These Mediterranean pinwheels’ ingredients ensure a delightful flavor experience, making them a go-to for any gathering!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Mediterranean Puff Pastry Pinwheels

Step 1: Thaw the Puff Pastry
Begin by removing the frozen puff pastry from the freezer, allowing it to thaw in the refrigerator for 6-8 hours. This gradual thawing ensures the pastry maintains its texture, making it easier to roll out later. Once soft and pliable, lightly flour a clean surface to prepare for rolling.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling
While the pastry thaws, prepare your flavorful filling for the Mediterranean pinwheels. In a mixing bowl, combine the squeezed dry frozen spinach, chopped artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, cream cheese, crumbled feta, fresh dill, lemon zest, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well blended and creamy; this harmony of flavors sets the tone for your pinwheels.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
Once your filling is ready, roll out the thawed puff pastry on the floured surface. Aim for a rectangle about 1/8 inch thick, ensuring it is large enough to spread your filling evenly. Use a rolling pin to achieve the desired thickness, taking care to keep the edges even for a perfect roll.

Step 4: Assemble the Pinwheels
Spread the filling mixture uniformly over the rolled-out pastry, leaving about half an inch from the edges to prevent spillage when rolling. Press the filling down gently, ensuring it adheres well to the pastry; this step is crucial for flavorful pinwheels that won’t fall apart during baking.

Step 5: Roll and Slice
Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the pastry tightly into a log shape. As you roll, keep the pressure consistent to maintain an even diameter. Once rolled, use a sharp knife to slice the log into 1-inch thick pinwheels, resulting in beautifully spiraled layers that will showcase the delicious filling.

Step 6: Preheat and Prepare for Baking
Before baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure the Mediterranean pinwheels don’t stick. Meanwhile, prepare an egg wash by whisking the large egg, which will give your pinwheels a glossy finish. Gently brush the tops of each pinwheel with the egg wash, enhancing their golden-brown appearance during baking.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden
Place your pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet, spaced a couple of inches apart, allowing for expansion. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are puffed and golden brown. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time, as you want a crispy outer layer that is just perfect to enjoy.

Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the pinwheels from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This brief cooling time helps the filling set slightly, making them easier to handle. Serve warm as a delightful appetizer or snack that embodies the essence of Mediterranean flavors!

What to Serve with Cheesy Mediterranean Puff Pastry Pinwheels?

Elevate your Mediterranean dining experience by pairing these delightful pinwheels with complementary dishes that burst with flavor and texture.

Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette adds brightness, balancing the rich flavors of the pinwheels while providing a refreshing crunch.
Tzatziki Sauce: This cool, creamy yogurt dip, infused with cucumber and garlic, offers a refreshing contrast to the warm pinwheels and enhances their Mediterranean flair.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted to perfection provide a hearty, earthy accompaniment, enhancing the overall meal and adding extra color to your plate.
Hummus Platter: A variety of hummus flavors paired with pita chips and fresh veggies creates a delightful dip station, giving guests options that complement the pinwheels.
Crispy Potato Wedges: Seasoned and oven-baked, these wedges offer a delightful crunch with every bite, making for a satisfying side that pairs beautifully with the flaky pastry.
Sparkling Lemonade: The tangy freshness of sparkling lemonade serves as a perfect drink option, cleansing the palate and enhancing the Mediterranean experience.

These pairings make your gathering not only an occasion to savor delicious food but also an opportunity to engage with friends and family over delightful dishes!

Expert Tips for Perfect Mediterranean Pinwheels

Chill the Dough: Allow rolled pinwheels to chill in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes; this helps firm up the dough for cleaner slicing and even baking.
Moisture Management: Squeeze out excess water from spinach and artichokes thoroughly; this prevents sogginess in the finished Mediterranean pinwheels.
Sharp Knife: Use a sharp knife for slicing the pinwheels; this ensures clean cuts and maintains the beautiful spiral of the filling.
Proper Baking Temperature: Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 400°F (200°C) for perfectly crispy pinwheels; under-baking can lead to a chewy texture.
Customize to Taste: Feel free to swap out ingredients like cheeses or herbs based on what you have at home, making each batch of Mediterranean pinwheels uniquely yours.

Mediterranean Pinwheels: Customization Ideas

Feel free to put your personal spin on these delightful Mediterranean pinwheels and make them uniquely yours!

Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese and mozzarella with dairy-free alternatives like cashew cream and vegan cheese.
Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh basil, oregano, or parsley to impart different herbal notes and enhance the Mediterranean flavor.
Texture Twist: For added crunch, toss in some chopped walnuts or pine nuts into the filling before rolling up.
Heat It Up: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the filling for a subtle kick that spices things up just right.
Sweet & Savory: Introduce a sweet note by incorporating chopped dried figs or apricots. The contrast with savory ingredients creates a beautiful balance.
Swap Spinach: Replace spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a different texture while retaining the nutritious goodness.
Egg-Free Option: For a vegan version, use a flaxseed or chia seed mix as an egg wash alternative for a lovely glaze.
Flavor Boost: Drizzle a touch of balsamic glaze over the finished pinwheels; it enhances flavors and adds a gourmet touch for your gatherings.

These variations ensure that your Mediterranean pinwheels can accommodate diverse tastes and dietary preferences, making them the perfect choice for any occasion. If you’re curious about more creative appetizers, check out my other recipes to enhance your culinary repertoire, like these charming Crispy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Fries!

Make Ahead Options

These Mediterranean Puff Pastry Pinwheels are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the filling and roll the pinwheels up to 24 hours in advance. Just assemble the pinwheels, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate. To maintain quality and prevent sogginess, ensure the vegetables are squeezed dry before mixing. When you’re ready to serve, simply brush the tops with egg wash and bake straight from the fridge, adding an additional 5-10 minutes to the baking time if they’re still cold. This way, you can have delicious, golden brown Mediterranean pinwheels with minimal effort and maximum flavor, making any gathering a breeze!

How to Store and Freeze Mediterranean Pinwheels

Fridge: Store baked pinwheels in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow them to cool completely before sealing to keep them fresh without getting soggy.

Freezer: Place unbaked pinwheels on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze for 1-2 hours before transferring them to a zip-top freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months and baked straight from the freezer.

Reheating: To reheat baked pinwheels, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid using the microwave to maintain their flaky texture.

Make-Ahead: These Mediterranean pinwheels are perfect for preparing in advance. Assemble and freeze, and you’ll always have a crowd-pleasing appetizer ready for entertaining!

Mediterranean Puff Pastry Pinwheels Recipe FAQs

What type of spinach should I use?
I recommend using frozen chopped spinach for these pinwheels. Make sure to squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible after thawing to avoid sogginess in the final product.

How should I store leftover Mediterranean pinwheels?
Store any baked pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let them cool completely before sealing. This helps retain their flaky texture!

Can I freeze Mediterranean pinwheels before baking?
Absolutely! Place unbaked pinwheels in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. After they’re firm, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, you can pop them straight from the freezer into the oven; just increase the baking time by a few minutes!

What if my pinwheels unroll during baking?
This can happen if the filling is too wet or the pastry hasn’t been rolled tightly enough. Ensure you squeeze out excess moisture from ingredients like spinach and artichokes. Before baking, consider chilling the assembled pinwheels for 15-30 minutes to firm them up.

Are Mediterranean pinwheels suitable for vegetarians?
Yes! These pinwheels are vegetarian-friendly as they contain no meat. However, always check your cheese selections if you’re catering to specific dietary preferences like vegetarian or lactose-free. Some guests might prefer dairy-free alternatives for the cheese used in the filling.