Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Incorporate the chopped spinach into the skillet and cook until wilted.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed spinach, crumbled feta, chopped sundried tomatoes, softened cream cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until thoroughly combined.
- Place the phyllo cups on a baking sheet. Carefully fill each one with the spinach mixture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the phyllo cups are golden brown and crispy.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve warm.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
These stuffed phyllo cups shine on their own, but consider pairing them with a light mixed greens salad or a creamy tzatziki sauce for dipping. A soft white wine or sparkling water with lemon will balance the flavors beautifully. For an elevated presentation, you can garnish with additional crumbled feta or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
How to Store & Freeze
To keep your leftover stuffed phyllo cups fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to 3-4 days. If you’d like to save any extras for later, you can freeze the filled phyllo cups before baking. Just place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen at 375°F for 15-20 minutes when you’re ready to enjoy them again!
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Make sure not to overstuff the phyllo cups; this helps maintain their structural integrity while baking.
- If you’re short on time, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just fill the cups right before baking!
- For a twist, consider adding cooked chicken or roasted red peppers to the filling for extra protein and flavor.
Creative Twists on the Classic Recipe
Mixing it up is easy! You could swap out the feta for goat cheese or ricotta for a creamier texture. Adding herbs like dill or oregano can really elevate the flavor profile. For a Mediterranean flair, try incorporating some olives into the filling. Vegans can make use of plant-based cheese alternatives and soft tofu in place of cream cheese for a delightful variation.
FAQs
What is the prep time for this recipe?
The prep time is approximately 15 to 20 minutes, making it a quick dish to prepare. Baking takes about 12 to 15 minutes, so you can easily have them fresh out of the oven in under 40 minutes.
Can I make substitutions for the ingredients?
Absolutely! You can replace feta with goat cheese or other soft cheeses. If shopping for sundried tomatoes is tough, consider using fresh tomatoes. Additionally, you can substitute spinach with other greens like kale or Swiss chard.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes until warmed through. This will help keep the phyllo cups crispy rather than soggy.
Enjoy your culinary adventure with these delightful stuffed phyllo cups! They are sure to become a family favorite.
