If you love the idea of crispy, golden bites bursting with a savory blend of spinach and creamy feta, then you are going to adore this Air Fryer Spanakopita Bites Recipe. These little pockets of flaky phyllo dough bring the best of Greek cuisine into a convenient, bite-sized form that’s perfect for casual snacking or impressing guests. Whether you’re whipping up a meal for friends or simply craving something deliciously light, these spanakopita bites deliver every time with their perfect crunch and rich, herby filling.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is a joy with this recipe because each one plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of textures and flavors. From the fresh spinach’s vibrant green to the creamy cheeses that provide richness, every ingredient is simple yet essential to the magic of your Air Fryer Spanakopita Bites Recipe.
- Fresh spinach (1 cup): Make sure it’s chopped finely for the perfect texture throughout.
- Feta cheese (1/2 cup): Crumbled feta adds tangy creaminess and authentic Greek flavor.
- Ricotta cheese (1/4 cup): Smooth and mild, it balances the intensity of the feta.
- Dill (1 tsp): Fresh or dried dill introduces a fragrant herbal note that brightens the filling.
- Phyllo dough (6 sheets): The key to that flaky, crispy exterior everyone will rave about.
- Cooking spray: Keeps the phyllo sheets crisp and prevents sticking without excess oil.
How to Make Air Fryer Spanakopita Bites Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Start by setting your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures that your bites cook evenly and develop that irresistible golden crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, crumbled feta, ricotta cheese, and dill. Stir gently but thoroughly, making sure all ingredients are well blended so every bite is packed with flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Phyllo Dough
Lay each phyllo sheet flat and brush lightly with cooking spray to keep them from sticking together. This step is crucial, as phyllo can be delicate and easy to tear otherwise.
Step 4: Cut and Fill
Cut the phyllo sheets into 4×4 inch squares, perfect for bite-sized treats. Place a spoonful of your spinach mixture in the center of each square, careful not to overfill or the bites won’t seal properly.
Step 5: Fold and Seal
Bring the corners of each phyllo square together over the filling, pinching to seal so the filling stays inside during cooking. This step calls for gentle hands but is the secret to that beautiful shape and crunch.
Step 6: Air Fry to Perfection
Carefully arrange the sealed bites in the air fryer basket, making sure there’s room between them to allow air circulation. Cook for about 10 minutes until each bite turns a stunning golden brown and the phyllo is crispy and flaky.
How to Serve Air Fryer Spanakopita Bites Recipe
Garnishes
For a lovely finishing touch, sprinkle chopped fresh dill or a pinch of paprika over the bites. A little drizzle of lemon juice right before serving brightens the entire dish and adds a refreshing zing that complements the rich cheese filling.
Side Dishes
These spanakopita bites pair brilliantly with a tangy yogurt-based dip, like tzatziki, for extra lushness. A simple cucumber salad or a fresh tomato and olive medley also works beautifully, keeping the meal light and Mediterranean-inspired.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Air Fryer Spanakopita Bites Recipe on a wooden board lined with parchment paper for a rustic feel. You could also arrange them in a circular pattern on a pretty platter with small bowls of dipping sauces in the middle – it’s an elegant way to showcase these little gems at any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place any leftover spanakopita bites in an airtight container and refrigerate. They keep well for up to 3 days, making them a convenient snack that stays delicious.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze the uncooked, folded bites on a baking sheet first to prevent sticking, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready, simply air fry them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to regain that crispy texture. Avoid the microwave if you want to preserve the delightful flakiness of the phyllo.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and thoroughly squeeze out any excess moisture from the frozen spinach. Too much moisture can make the phyllo soggy instead of crisp.
What can I use if I don’t have ricotta cheese?
Cottage cheese or a mild cream cheese works well as a substitute, although ricotta provides the best creamy texture without overpowering the feta.
Is phyllo dough difficult to work with?
Phyllo can be a bit delicate due to its thinness, so handle with care and keep sheets covered with a damp towel when not in use to prevent drying out.
Can these bites be made vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the cheeses with plant-based alternatives and use fresh herbs to keep the flavorful filling intact.
How long can I keep the uncooked spanakopita bites in the fridge before cooking?
You can prepare and assemble the bites up to a day in advance; just keep them covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a snack that’s as impressive in taste as it is easy to make, you really have to try the Air Fryer Spanakopita Bites Recipe. These crispy, cheesy pockets bring warmth and joy with every bite, and once you make them, I promise they’ll quickly become a favorite go-to treat in your kitchen. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
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Air Fryer Spanakopita Bites Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Yield: 12 bites
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Air Fryer Spanakopita Bites are crispy, golden finger foods filled with a rich mixture of spinach, creamy feta, and ricotta cheese. This Greek-inspired snack offers flaky phyllo dough layers that are light, healthy, and perfect for parties or cozy nights at home. Ready in just 25 minutes, these bites pair wonderfully with a zesty yogurt dip and bring Mediterranean flavors to your table effortlessly.
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 tsp dill
Phyllo Dough Preparation
- 6 sheets phyllo dough
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for cooking.
- Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, crumbled feta cheese, ricotta cheese, and dill. Mix these ingredients thoroughly until well combined for a flavorful filling.
- Prepare Phyllo Sheets: Lay out the phyllo dough sheets on a clean surface. Lightly brush each sheet with cooking spray to prevent sticking and add crispiness.
- Cut Dough: Cut the phyllo sheets into approximately 4×4 inch squares to create individual portions for the bites.
- Assemble Spanakopita Bites: Place a spoonful of the spinach and cheese mixture in the center of each phyllo square. Fold the corners over the filling and pinch them together to securely seal each bite.
- Air Fry: Arrange the sealed bites in the air fryer basket, making sure to leave enough space between them to avoid overcrowding. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until they are golden brown and flaky.
- Serve: Remove the spanakopita bites from the air fryer and serve warm, ideally paired with a homemade yogurt dip or your favorite sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
Notes
- Ensure the phyllo dough is covered with a damp cloth while working to prevent it from drying out.
- You can substitute fresh spinach with frozen spinach (thawed and excess water squeezed out) if needed.
- Adjust the amount of dill or add other herbs like parsley or mint to tweak the flavor to your liking.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- These bites can be prepared ahead and frozen; cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the air frying time.
- Serve with tzatziki or a lemon-garlic yogurt dip for authentic Greek flavors.
