Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these Mediterranean Phyllo Cups! They’re one of my absolute favorite appetizers to whip up for gatherings or cozy nights in. Imagine buttery, flaky phyllo pastry cradling a delightful mix of feta cheese, fresh spinach, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, all brought together with a hint of oregano. Seriously, the first bite is like a flavor explosion! They’re so easy to make, and the best part? You can customize the fillings based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Trust me, once you take these out of the oven and see that golden-brown perfection, your friends will be begging for the recipe. These little cups are not just food; they’re a taste of the Mediterranean, and they’re sure to impress anyone who tries them!
Ingredients
- 1 package phyllo dough (thawed according to package instructions)
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup olives, sliced (black or green, your choice!)
- 1/4 cup olive oil (for brushing and mixing)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare Mediterranean Phyllo Cups
Preheat and Prepare
First things first—let’s get that oven preheated! Set it to 375°F (190°C) because we want it nice and hot when we bake those delightful phyllo cups. While that’s heating up, take the phyllo dough out of the freezer and let it thaw as per the package instructions. It usually takes about 30 minutes, but keep it covered with a damp cloth to prevent it from drying out. Trust me, nobody wants dry phyllo!
Layering Phyllo Dough
Now, onto the fun part! Grab a muffin tin and brush it with a bit of olive oil. This step is crucial because it keeps the cups from sticking. Take three sheets of phyllo dough and layer them on top of each other, brushing each layer lightly with olive oil. Once you have your layers, cut the dough into squares that are big enough to fit into the muffin cups. Gently place each square into the muffin tin, pressing down to form little cups. Don’t worry if they’re not perfect; those rustic edges just add to the charm!
Making the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled feta, chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, sliced olives, oregano, salt, and pepper. This is where you can get creative! If you love a bit more zing, add some red pepper flakes. Want it creamier? Mix in a dollop of ricotta or cream cheese! Give it a good stir until everything’s well blended.
Assembling and Baking
Now it’s time to assemble! Spoon that delicious filling generously into each phyllo cup, packing it in just a bit. Pop the muffin tin into your preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the phyllo is golden brown and crispy. Oh, the smell will be incredible! Let them cool for a couple of minutes before serving, and then get ready to enjoy these gorgeous bites of Mediterranean goodness!
Tips for Success
- Keep it Moist: Make sure to cover your phyllo sheets with a damp cloth while you work. This prevents them from drying out and becoming brittle—no one wants sad, crunchy cups!
- Brush Generously: Don’t skimp on the olive oil! A good brush of oil between layers not only helps with sticking but also gives that beautiful golden color.
- Fill Wisely: Pack the filling in moderately. Too much and you might overflow; too little and it can be a little sad. Aim for a nice, hearty scoop!
- Experiment: Don’t be afraid to play with the filling! Try adding roasted red peppers or artichokes for a twist. The Mediterranean is all about fresh flavors!
- Serve Fresh: These cups are best enjoyed right out of the oven. If making ahead, store them in an airtight container and reheat briefly to crisp them up again.
Nutritional Information
These Mediterranean Phyllo Cups are not just delicious but also provide a satisfying bite. Each cup is approximately 150 calories, making them a great choice for an appetizer. Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional values:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 10g (Saturated Fat: 3g, Unsaturated Fat: 7g)
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 12g (Fiber: 1g)
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Cholesterol: 15mg
With these wholesome ingredients, you can enjoy guilt-free snacking while indulging in the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! These Mediterranean Phyllo Cups are perfect for preparing ahead of time. You can assemble the cups, fill them with the delicious mixture, and then cover them with plastic wrap or foil and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day. When you’re ready to serve, just pop them in the oven to bake as directed. They may need an extra minute or two if they’re cold from the fridge. This way, you can enjoy the ease of entertaining without the last-minute rush!
What can I substitute for feta cheese?
If you’re looking for alternatives to feta cheese, you’ve got options! For a similar tangy flavor, try goat cheese or even crumbled ricotta. If you’re dairy-free or vegan, there are some fantastic plant-based feta cheeses available that mimic the flavor and texture quite well. You can also experiment with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Just remember to adjust any seasoning accordingly, as these substitutes might have different salt levels!
How do I freeze leftovers?
Freezing leftovers is super easy! Allow the Mediterranean Phyllo Cups to cool completely, then place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper if necessary. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, until heated through and crispy. It’s like having a little piece of the Mediterranean ready whenever you want!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: These Mediterranean Phyllo Cups come together in no time—perfect for last-minute gatherings!
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of feta, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes creates a burst of Mediterranean flavors in every bite.
- Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite ingredients or leftovers, making each batch uniquely yours!
- Impressive Presentation: Their golden, flaky appearance makes them a stunning addition to any table.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a fancy party or a casual get-together, these cups fit right in!
Serving Suggestions
These Mediterranean Phyllo Cups are so versatile and can be paired with a variety of dishes for a complete meal or a fabulous spread! Serve them alongside a refreshing Greek salad drizzled with olive oil and lemon for a light, zesty contrast. You could also complement them with a side of tzatziki sauce for dipping—trust me, that cool, creamy yogurt sauce is a game-changer! For a more substantial meal, consider serving these cups with grilled chicken or lamb skewers marinated in garlic and herbs. And don’t forget a glass of chilled white wine or a sparkling water with a splash of lemon—perfect for bringing out those Mediterranean flavors!
Print
Mediterranean Phyllo Cups: 5 Irresistible Flavor Bombs
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 cups 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious appetizer made with phyllo pastry filled with Mediterranean ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 package phyllo dough
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Thaw the phyllo dough according to package instructions.
- Brush a muffin tin with olive oil.
- Layer 3 sheets of phyllo dough, brushing each layer with olive oil.
- Cut the layered phyllo into squares and place them in the muffin tin.
- In a bowl, mix feta, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Fill each phyllo cup with the mixture.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Keep phyllo covered to prevent drying out.
- Adjust the filling ingredients to your taste.
- These can be made ahead of time and frozen.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Mediterranean Phyllo Cups, appetizer, phyllo pastry, feta cheese