The savory charm of Greek cuisine meets quick-and-easy cooking with these Spinach & Feta Patties. Drawing inspiration from classic spanakopita, this recipe offers the same herby, cheesy flavors in a fuss-free patty form that’s oven-baked to golden perfection.
Perfect as a light lunch, crowd-pleasing appetizer, or vegetarian main, these patties are crispy on the outside, creamy and flavorful on the inside, and ready in just about 30 minutes. Serve them with cool tzatziki, or layer them in pita with fresh veggies for a Mediterranean sandwich that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Full Recipe:
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
1 cup crumbled feta cheese
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 egg
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
1/4 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil (for greasing)
1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing the patties)
Directions:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease lightly with olive oil.
In a large bowl, mix chopped spinach, crumbled feta, chopped onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan (optional), oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Shape the mixture into 2-3 inch round or oval patties and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Brush the tops with olive oil for a crispy finish.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy on the outside.
Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with tzatziki or your favorite dip.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 180 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The Origin and Inspiration Behind Spinach & Feta Patties
Spinach and feta patties are a modern, simplified twist on a traditional Greek classic: spanakopita. Spanakopita is a beloved dish made with phyllo dough layered with a rich filling of spinach, feta cheese, herbs, and occasionally other vegetables or seasonings. While delicious, traditional spanakopita can be time-consuming due to the delicate nature of working with phyllo pastry.
That’s where these patties come in—they capture the same flavor profile of spanakopita in a much quicker and more approachable form. Perfect for home cooks who want bold Mediterranean flavors without a lot of prep work, spinach and feta patties are a go-to recipe for both beginners and seasoned cooks.
Why Spinach & Feta Make a Perfect Pair
The combination of spinach and feta cheese is a classic for a reason. Spinach is mild, slightly earthy, and incredibly nutritious. Feta, on the other hand, is tangy, salty, and crumbly. Together, they form a well-balanced, savory duo that’s ideal for stuffing, mixing, or baking.
Spinach brings in a wealth of nutrients like iron, calcium, and fiber, making this recipe not just tasty but also nourishing. Meanwhile, feta adds that unmistakable Greek character and richness that elevates the overall dish. Whether you’re making a sandwich, a pie, or these patties, the pairing never fails to deliver.
A Healthy, Versatile Meal Option
One of the standout benefits of this recipe is its flexibility. Spinach and feta patties can be served as appetizers, main courses, or side dishes. Pair them with a salad for a light lunch, offer them at parties with a dipping sauce like tzatziki, or tuck them into pita bread for a satisfying Mediterranean-style wrap.
From a nutritional standpoint, these patties are a smart option. They are baked—not fried—reducing the overall fat content while still achieving a golden, crispy exterior. The inclusion of vegetables and high-protein cheese helps make them both filling and balanced. If you use whole wheat or gluten-free breadcrumbs, you can further tailor the recipe to specific dietary preferences.
Time-Saving and Meal Prep Friendly
In our busy lives, recipes that are fast and freezer-friendly are gold. Spinach and feta patties tick both boxes. They come together in about 30 minutes and can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer. When frozen, they’re easy to reheat in the oven or air fryer without losing their texture.
This makes them ideal for meal prep. Cook a batch on the weekend, store them in airtight containers, and enjoy throughout the week as quick lunches or snacks. They’re even delicious cold, making them suitable for school or work lunches.
Customizations to Suit Every Diet
Another great aspect of this recipe is how easily it can be customized. Want a dairy-free version? Use plant-based feta or nutritional yeast. Looking to increase your protein intake? Add a small amount of cooked ground meat, like lamb or turkey. Prefer a lower-carb version? Substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or ground flaxseed.
For a flavor twist, you can mix in sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or roasted red peppers. Fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or mint can take the flavor up a notch and bring a more authentic Mediterranean flair to the dish.
Family-Friendly and Kid-Approved
Even picky eaters will find something to love about spinach and feta patties. Their compact, snackable size and cheesy flavor make them a hit with children and adults alike. If you have trouble getting your kids to eat vegetables, this recipe is a subtle yet effective way to add more greens to their diet.
For younger kids, you can shape the patties into fun shapes using cookie cutters, or serve them with fun dips like ranch, marinara, or hummus. They’re also ideal for baby-led weaning when made in smaller, softer versions.
Cultural Connection and Mediterranean Influence
Greek cuisine is known for its emphasis on fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and healthy fats. Spinach and feta are key players in this culinary tradition, often appearing in pies, pastries, and savory dishes. These patties pay homage to that heritage while also offering modern convenience.
The influence of Mediterranean eating patterns—which prioritize vegetables, healthy fats like olive oil, lean proteins, and fresh herbs—is evident in this recipe. It reflects a lifestyle centered on balance, flavor, and nourishment, making it an excellent fit for those looking to adopt healthier eating habits without compromising taste.
Pairing Suggestions to Elevate the Meal
Wondering what to serve with spinach and feta patties? You’ve got plenty of tasty options. For a fresh and light pairing, serve them with a classic Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and red onion. A drizzle of lemon and olive oil ties everything together beautifully.
They also go well with soups, like lentil or tomato basil, for a cozy, well-rounded meal. Or pair with grilled vegetables, hummus, and warm pita for a Mediterranean mezze plate. For drinks, consider a sparkling water with lemon or a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Assyrtiko to complement the savory, tangy flavors of the patties.
A Dish That Works for All Occasions
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a casual weeknight meal, or looking for something new for your lunchbox rotation, spinach and feta patties are an excellent choice. They present beautifully on a platter, especially when garnished with fresh herbs or served with a colorful dip. You can even turn them into sliders or use them as a veggie burger alternative.
Because they can be made in advance and served warm or at room temperature, they are perfect for picnics, potlucks, and brunch spreads. Their portability and ease of reheating also make them a staple for busy households.
Conclusion: Why You Should Try Spinach & Feta Patties Today
Spinach and feta patties are a delightful blend of nutrition, flavor, and convenience. Rooted in Greek culinary traditions but modernized for today’s busy kitchens, they deliver all the savory satisfaction of spanakopita with a fraction of the effort. Baked until golden and crisp, filled with cheesy, herby goodness, they’re perfect for everything from weekday meals to festive gatherings.
Their customizability makes them a reliable option for different dietary needs, and their freezer-friendliness adds practicality to their charm. Whether you’re a vegetarian, a lover of Mediterranean flavors, or simply someone looking for a new family favorite, these patties are sure to become a regular in your kitchen rotation.
Try them once, and you’ll understand why they’ve become a staple for so many cooks across the globe.