Spinach and Feta Stromboli
A golden-brown crust wrapped around a savory filling of tender spinach, salty feta, and gooey mozzarella cheese. This easy-to-make stromboli is perfect for a weeknight dinner, party appetizer, or a fun lunch.
For 4 servings
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Prepare the spinach filling. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the fresh spinach in batches, stirring until it wilts completely, about 3-5 minutes.
Drain the spinach thoroughly. Transfer the wilted spinach to a fine-mesh sieve or colander. Using the back of a spoon, press firmly to squeeze out as much liquid as possible. For best results, wrap the cooled spinach in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and wring it out until very dry. This step is crucial to prevent a soggy stromboli.
In a medium bowl, combine the dry spinach, shredded mozzarella, crumbled feta, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
On a lightly floured surface, roll or stretch the pizza dough into a large rectangle, approximately 12x16 inches. Spread the spinach and cheese mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border on all sides.
Assemble the stromboli. Starting from one of the long sides, roll the dough up tightly into a log. Pinch the seam firmly to seal it. Fold the ends under and pinch them tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
Prepare for baking. Carefully transfer the stromboli, seam-side down, to the prepared baking sheet. In a small bowl, whisk the egg with 1 teaspoon of water to create an egg wash. Brush the entire surface of the stromboli with the egg wash. Using a sharp knife, cut 4-5 diagonal slits across the top to allow steam to escape.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is a deep golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let the stromboli rest on the baking sheet for at least 10 minutes before slicing into 1.5 to 2-inch thick pieces. This allows the filling to set. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping, if desired.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1The most critical step is to squeeze all the water from the cooked spinach. Any excess moisture will result in a soggy bottom crust.
- 2Use low-moisture mozzarella cheese. Fresh mozzarella contains too much water and can make the filling wet.
- 3Don't overfill the dough. It can cause the seams to burst open during baking.
- 4Ensure the seams and ends are pinched very tightly to keep the delicious filling from leaking out.
- 5Letting the stromboli rest before slicing is crucial. This allows the cheesy filling to set, ensuring clean, beautiful slices.
- 6For an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle the top with sesame seeds or grated Parmesan cheese after applying the egg wash.
Adapt it for your goals.
Add Vegetables
Incorporate other ingredients into the filling, such as chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, roasted red peppers, or sautéed mushrooms.
Add MeatAdd Meat
For a non-vegetarian version, add cooked and crumbled Italian sausage, mini pepperonis, or chopped prosciutto to the cheese mixture.
Cheese VariationsCheese Variations
Swap out some of the mozzarella for provolone or add a few dollops of ricotta cheese for a creamier texture.
Herb VariationsHerb Variations
Use fresh chopped basil or parsley instead of, or in addition to, the dried oregano for a fresher flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Calcium
The combination of mozzarella and feta cheese provides a significant amount of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.
Excellent Source of Protein
With a generous amount of cheese, this stromboli is a good source of protein, which is vital for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Packed with Vitamins and Minerals
Spinach is a nutrient-dense leafy green, offering vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and folate, which support vision, immune function, and red blood cell production.
Frequently asked questions
One serving (approximately 2 slices) contains around 600-650 calories, depending on the specific type of pizza dough and cheese used.