Mini Feta & Olive Puffs Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful Mediterranean-inspired appetizer that’s as charming as it is delicious, these Mini Feta & Olive Puffs are an absolute must-try. Imagine flaky, buttery puff pastry wrapped around a vibrant filling of tangy feta cheese, briny Kalamata olives, and fragrant oregano. Each bite bursts with flavor and texture, making these puffs the perfect party pleaser or elegant snack. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving something special, Mini Feta & Olive Puffs bring warmth and zest to your table effortlessly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Mini Feta & Olive Puffs lies in their simplicity, using a handful of fresh ingredients that work together to deliver big flavor. Each component shines individually and combines to create a harmonious balance of salty, savory, and herby notes, along with a golden, crisp pastry finish.

• Puff pastry sheet: Provides the buttery, flaky base that makes these puffs irresistibly crisp and light.
• Feta cheese (½ cup, crumbled): Adds a creamy saltiness that’s essential for that classic Mediterranean taste.
• Chopped Kalamata olives (¼ cup): Brings a rich, briny sharpness that perfectly contrasts the smooth feta.
• Oregano (1 tbsp): Infuses the filling with an earthy and slightly floral aroma that heightens the flavors.

How to Make Mini Feta & Olive Puffs

Step 1: Prepare the filling

Start by combining the crumbled feta, chopped Kalamata olives, and oregano in a small bowl. Mixing these ingredients thoroughly ensures every puff will have a well-distributed blend of tang and herbaceous depth.

Step 2: Cut and fill the pastry

Roll out your puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface and cut it into 12 equal squares. Spoon a generous dollop of the feta and olive mixture onto the center of each square, being careful not to overfill to avoid a spill during baking.

Step 3: Fold and seal the puffs

Fold each square over to form triangles or rectangles depending on your preference, and press the edges firmly with a fork to seal in the filling. This step helps maintain the perfect crispy envelope around the creamy center.

Step 4: Bake to golden perfection

Place your filled pastry squares on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 20 minutes. Watch for a golden, puffed exterior that indicates the pastry is perfectly cooked and the filling is heated through.

How to Serve Mini Feta & Olive Puffs

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or a few extra oregano leaves on top right after baking for a pop of color and extra herb freshness. A light drizzle of good-quality olive oil can also enhance their Mediterranean flair.

Side Dishes

Serve these puffs alongside a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or a simple tomato cucumber salad. Their richness pairs wonderfully with light, zesty sides that complement the salty feta and olives without overwhelming them.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange Mini Feta & Olive Puffs on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of tzatziki or roasted red pepper dip for an inviting appetizer spread. Alternatively, skewer a couple on toothpicks with cherry tomatoes and basil leaves for a fun finger food twist at your next get-together.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Mini Feta & Olive Puffs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Because of the delicate puff pastry, it’s best enjoyed fresh but keeping them airtight helps maintain their texture for short-term storage.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked filled puffs on a tray until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure the pastry crisps up perfectly.

Reheating

To reheat, pop the puffs into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes. This reheats them gently while bringing back that delightful crisp exterior without drying out the filling.

FAQs

Can I use a different cheese instead of feta?

While feta is the signature flavor in Mini Feta & Olive Puffs, you could substitute with other crumbly cheeses like goat cheese or ricotta salata for a milder or slightly sweeter variation.

Are these puffs suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, Mini Feta & Olive Puffs are completely vegetarian-friendly as they contain no meat or animal-derived gelatin, just delicious cheese, herbs, and olives.

Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! The filling can be mixed and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before assembling the puffs, which can help save time if you’re prepping for an event.

What’s the best way to cut the puff pastry?

Use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter to slice your puff pastry into even squares. Keeping the edges clean helps the puffs bake evenly and look tidy once folded.

How do I avoid soggy puffs?

Make sure not to overfill the pastry and seal the edges well. Baking on parchment paper and allowing the oven to fully preheat to 375°F ensures that the pastry crisps up nicely and doesn’t get soggy.

Final Thoughts

Mini Feta & Olive Puffs are a little piece of Mediterranean magic that’s surprisingly quick and simple to bring to life. Their flaky pastry and vibrant filling make them an unforgettable appetizer for any occasion. Once you try these, they’re bound to become a favorite go-to snack that you’ll want to share with everyone you know. Give them a whirl and watch how quickly they disappear from your appetizer plate!