Savory Feta and Olive Stuffed Phyllo Bites: A Bite-sized Delight for Any Occasion
Are you looking for a snack that’s both delicious and easy to whip up for your next party or gathering? Look no further! Today, I’ll share with you a simple recipe for savory feta and olive stuffed phyllo bites that’s sure to impress your guests. These bite-sized delights are crispy on the outside, creamy and flavorful on the inside, and perfect for any occasion. The best part? You don’t need to be a professional chef to make them. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Before we start cooking, let’s make sure we have all the ingredients ready. This recipe makes about 20 phyllo bites, but feel free to adjust the quantities based on how many you’d like to make.
- 1 package of phyllo dough sheets (found in the frozen section of most grocery stores)
- 1 cup of crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup of chopped olives (You can use any type of olives you like. I prefer a mix of green and Kalamata for a burst of color and flavor.)
- 1/4 cup of finely chopped red onion (for a little crunch and kick)
- 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, chopped (adds a fresh, herby taste)
- 1 egg, lightly beaten (helps to bind the filling)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil or melted butter (for brushing the phyllo sheets)
Tools You’ll Need:
- A sharp knife
- A small bowl for the egg
- A mixing bowl for the filling
- A pastry brush
- A baking sheet
- Parchment paper or a silicone baking mat
Let’s Get Cooking:
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Prepare the Filling: In your mixing bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese, chopped olives, red onion, chopped parsley, and the lightly beaten egg. Add a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until well blended.
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Prep the Phyllo Dough: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Unroll your phyllo dough on a clean, dry surface. Cover it with a damp cloth to keep it from drying out as you work. Take one sheet of phyllo and lay it on your work surface. Brush it lightly with olive oil or melted butter. Repeat with two more sheets, stacking them on top of the first one.
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Add the Filling: Cut the layered phyllo sheets into squares or rectangles (about 2×3 inches work well). Place a small spoonful of the feta and olive mixture in the center of each piece. Be careful not to overfill, or it might leak out during baking.
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Fold and Seal: Bring the edges of the phyllo dough together to enclose the filling, creating a small parcel or bite. You can shape them into triangles, squares, or even little purses. Gently press the edges to seal, and brush the outside with a bit more olive oil or melted butter. This will help the phyllo bites get that golden, crispy texture.
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Bake to Perfection: Place your filled phyllo bites on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they’re not touching. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy.
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Enjoy: Let the phyllo bites cool for a few minutes before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm but are also tasty at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions:
These savory feta and olive stuffed phyllo bites are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:
- As an appetizer: Place them on a nice platter with some fresh herbs for decoration. Your guests can easily pick them up and enjoy them as they mingle.
- With dipping sauces: Offer a selection of sauces for dipping, like tzatziki, hummus, or a balsamic reduction, to add an extra layer of flavor.
- As part of a buffet: These bites are a great addition to any buffet table, fitting in perfectly with other finger foods and snacks.
Final Thoughts:
There you have it—simple yet scrumptious savory feta and olive stuffed phyllo bites that are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. By following this easy recipe, you can create a mouthwatering treat that looks fancy without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy experimenting with the fillings, and don’t be afraid to put your personal spin on it. Happy cooking!