Spinach & Feta Patties

These Mediterranean-inspired spinach and feta patties have become my go-to lunch option for busy weekdays. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, they strike the perfect balance between nutritious and delicious with every bite.

I first created these patties when trying to recreate a dish I fell in love with at a small Greek restaurant. After several attempts, this version became a household favorite that even my vegetable-skeptical nephew requests regularly.

Ingredients

• Fresh spinach: The star ingredient provides earthy flavor and nutritional punch. Choose bright, crisp leaves or save time with frozen spinach.
• Crumbled feta: Traditional Greek cheese adds the perfect tangy saltiness. Look for authentic Greek feta made from sheep's milk for the most authentic flavor.
• Onion: Adds aromatic sweetness when cooked. Choose a yellow or white onion for milder flavor.
• Garlic: Fresh minced cloves provide essential Mediterranean flavor. Fresh is significantly better than pre-minced for this recipe.
• Egg: Acts as the crucial binder that holds everything together. Room temperature works best.
• Breadcrumbs: Helps absorb moisture and create the perfect texture. Panko creates an extra crispy exterior if you have it.
• Parmesan cheese: Optional but adds wonderful depth and umami notes to complement the feta.
• Dried oregano: Classic Greek herb that ties all flavors together. Crush between your fingers before adding to release oils.
• Olive oil: Used for both cooking and brushing provides authentic Mediterranean flavor and helps achieve golden brown perfection.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat Oven:

Set your oven to 375°F and prepare your baking sheet with either parchment paper or a light coating of olive oil. This preparation ensures the patties won't stick during baking and makes cleanup much easier.

Mix Ingredients:

Combine all ingredients thoroughly in a large bowl until you achieve a cohesive mixture. Take your time during this step to ensure even distribution of the feta and seasonings. The mixture should be moist enough to hold together when pressed but not overly wet.

Form Patties:

Using your hands, scoop about two tablespoons of mixture and gently shape into round or oval patties approximately 2-3 inches in diameter. Press firmly enough to ensure they hold together but avoid compacting too tightly which can make them dense. If the mixture feels too wet, add a few more breadcrumbs.

Brush With Oil:

Apply a light, even coating of olive oil to the tops of each patty using a pastry brush. This crucial step helps develop a golden, crispy exterior during baking and enhances the Mediterranean flavors.

Bake To Perfection:

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes total. After about 12 minutes, carefully flip each patty to ensure even browning on both sides. Look for a deep golden color and slightly crisp exterior before removing from the oven.

Rest And Serve:

Allow the patties to rest for 3-5 minutes after removing from the oven. This brief resting period helps them set up properly and makes them easier to handle. Serve warm with your preferred accompaniments.

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My absolute favorite part of this recipe is the contrast between the crispy exterior and the tender, flavorful filling. The first time I served these at a family gathering, my Greek grandmother gave them her nod of approval which might be my proudest culinary achievement to date.

Make-Ahead Options

These patties are perfect for meal prep. After baking and cooling completely, store them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers. They'll keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the patties on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag where they'll last for up to 3 months. Reheat frozen patties in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

While delicious on their own, these versatile patties truly shine when paired with complementary sides. Serve with a dollop of tzatziki sauce or lemon-garlic yogurt for authentic Mediterranean flavor. They make excellent sandwich fillings tucked into warm pita bread with sliced tomatoes and cucumber. For a complete meal, pair with a simple Greek salad or roasted vegetables. They also work beautifully as part of a mezze platter alongside hummus, olives, and fresh vegetables.

Ingredient Substitutions

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. No feta available? Goat cheese makes an excellent substitute with a similar tangy profile. For a dairy-free version, use firm tofu crumbled with a bit of nutritional yeast and lemon juice. Gluten-free breadcrumbs work perfectly for those avoiding gluten. Fresh herbs like dill, mint, or parsley can replace or complement the oregano for different flavor profiles. If you prefer a more substantial patty, cooked quinoa or rice can be added to the mixture.

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These patties offer a true taste of the Mediterranean while being simple to prepare and incredibly versatile.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach works perfectly in this dish. Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out excess moisture before mixing with other ingredients. This prevents the patties from becoming too wet and falling apart during baking.

→ How can I make these patties gluten-free?

Simply substitute the regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. The texture might be slightly different, but they'll still hold together and taste delicious.

→ Can I make these patties ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the mixture and form the patties up to 24 hours in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator, then brush with olive oil just before baking. You can also freeze uncooked patties for up to 3 months - just thaw before baking.

→ What can I serve with spinach and feta patties?

These patties pair wonderfully with tzatziki sauce, Greek yogurt, or a lemon-garlic aioli. For a complete meal, serve with a Mediterranean salad, roasted vegetables, or as part of a mezze platter with hummus, olives, and pita bread.

→ How do I know when the patties are done baking?

The patties are done when they're golden brown on both sides and firm to the touch, usually after 20-25 minutes of baking at 375°F (190°C). Flipping them halfway through ensures even browning on both sides.

→ Can I add other vegetables to these patties?

Absolutely! Try adding grated zucchini, finely chopped bell peppers, or even corn kernels. Just make sure to drain any excess moisture from watery vegetables before adding them to the mixture to maintain the right consistency.