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### Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Spinach + Feta Cookies
Making these savory cookies is simple, but it does take a bit of time and patience. Here’s how you can make them from scratch:
#### Step 1: Prepare the Spinach Filling
1. **Sauté the spinach**: If you’re using fresh spinach, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until wilted and tender. If you’re using frozen spinach, ensure that it is fully thawed and excess moisture is drained before sautéing. Once cooked, remove the spinach from the heat and set it aside to cool.
2. **Sauté the garlic and onion**: In the same skillet, add a little more oil if necessary, and sauté the minced garlic and chopped onion over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, until fragrant and translucent.
3. **Combine the filling**: In a bowl, combine the cooked spinach, garlic, onion, crumbled feta, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg (if desired). Stir until everything is well mixed. Set this filling aside.
#### Step 2: Make the Dough
1. **Mix dry ingredients**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. **Add wet ingredients**: Cut the softened butter into small pieces and add it to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the olive oil, egg, Greek yogurt, lemon zest, fresh dill, and parsley, and mix until a soft dough forms.
3. **Chill the dough**: Once the dough has come together, wrap it in plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This helps to firm it up and makes it easier to work with when shaping the cookies.
#### Step 3: Assemble the Cookies
1. **Preheat the oven**: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. **Roll out the dough**: After the dough has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator and roll it out on a lightly floured surface until it’s about ¼ inch thick.
3. **Cut the cookies**: Using a cookie cutter (about 2 inches in diameter), cut out circles from the dough. You should have enough dough for around 20-25 cookies, depending on the size of your cutter.
4. **Fill the cookies**: Place a spoonful of the spinach and feta filling in the center of each dough circle. Carefully fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape or a neat round pocket, pressing the edges together to seal. You can use a fork to crimp the edges if you prefer a decorative touch.
5. **Brush with egg wash**: In a small bowl, beat an egg with a tablespoon of water and brush the tops of each cookie with the egg wash. This will give them a golden color when baked.
6. **Add sesame or poppy seeds**: If you like, sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds on top for added crunch and a nice finishing touch.
#### Step 4: Bake the Cookies
1. **Bake**: Place the filled cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crisp on the outside.
2. **Cool and Serve**: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These cookies are best enjoyed warm but can also be stored for later consumption.
### Variations and Tips
1. **Add some heat**: For a spicy kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling or sprinkling some cayenne pepper into the dough.
2. **Use a different cheese**: If you’re not a fan of feta, you can substitute with goat cheese, ricotta, or even mozzarella. Each cheese will give the cookies a slightly different flavor profile.
3. **Make them vegan**: To make these cookies vegan, you can substitute the egg and Greek yogurt for plant-based alternatives, like non-dairy yogurt and a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water). You can also use a non-dairy butter substitute and vegan feta.
4. **Serve with a dipping sauce**: For an extra burst of flavor, serve these Spanakopita cookies with a side of tzatziki sauce or a yogurt-based dip.
### Nutritional Information
Each Spinach + Feta Cookie offers a burst of nutrition. Packed with spinach and feta, these cookies provide:
– **Protein**: Thanks to the feta cheese and spinach, these cookies are a good source of protein.
– **Fiber**: Spinach adds a healthy dose of fiber to the cookies.
– **Vitamins**: Spinach is high in vitamins A, C, and K, which support immune function and overall health.
Approximate nutritional breakdown (per cookie, based on 25 cookies):
– Calories: 120-150
– Protein: 3-5g
– Carbohydrates: 15-20g
– Fat: 6-8g
– Fiber: 1-2g
### Conclusion
**Spinach + Feta Cookies (Spanakopita Cookies)** offer a delightful twist on the classic Greek Spanakopita. These savory cookies are perfect for those who love Mediterranean flavors but are looking for a new and creative way to enjoy them. Whether you are making them for a party, a family dinner, or a snack, these cookies are sure to impress your guests with their unique, flavorful taste and flaky, crispy texture.
By using simple ingredients and taking a few steps to prepare the dough and filling, you can create a dish that is both elegant and satisfying. The blend of fresh spinach, tangy feta, and herbs in a buttery, crisp cookie will make these Spanakopita cookies your new favorite savory treat.
