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Rice Paper Spanakopita Recipe

4.5 from 145 reviews

This Rice Paper Spanakopita is a delicious and lighter twist on the classic Greek spinach pie, replacing traditional phyllo dough with delicate rice paper wrappers. Filled with a flavorful blend of sautéed spinach, onion, cottage cheese, and Parmigiano Reggiano, this recipe delivers a crispy, golden crust thanks to air frying, making it a perfect appetizer or snack that’s both easy to prepare and irresistibly tasty.

Ingredients

Scale

Filling

  • 1/2 tsp olive oil
  • 1/2 yellow onion, chopped
  • 1 handful baby spinach, chopped
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 1/2 cup cottage cheese (good culture preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, grated
  • 2 eggs

Assembly

  • 3 pieces rice paper
  • Sesame seeds on top (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Filling: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add chopped spinach and a pinch of salt, cooking just until the spinach wilts. Remove from heat.
  2. Mix Filling Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the sautéed onion and spinach mixture with cottage cheese and grated Parmigiano Reggiano. Stir well and set aside.
  3. Prepare Egg Wash and Rice Paper: In a wide, shallow bowl, beat the eggs thoroughly. Dip one side of each rice paper sheet into the egg wash and lay it egg-side down on a clean cutting board, overlapping each slightly to create a layered base.
  4. Assemble Roll: Spread the filling into a thin, even layer along the bottom half of the layered rice paper. Allow the rice paper to soften for a few minutes before proceeding.
  5. Roll and Shape: Carefully roll the rice paper over the filling once, tuck in the sides, and continue rolling to enclose the filling completely, forming a long roll.
  6. Form Coil: Take one end of the roll and curl it into a spiral or coil shape, resembling a round pastry.
  7. Finish and Air Fry: Brush the entire roll with the remaining egg wash and sprinkle sesame seeds on top if using. Place in an air fryer and cook at 400°F (204°C) for 10-12 minutes or until the exterior is golden and crispy.
  8. Serve: Remove from air fryer and let cool slightly. Slice and enjoy your crispy, flavorful Rice Paper Spanakopita!

Notes

  • You can substitute cottage cheese with feta or ricotta for a different flavor profile.
  • Adding scallions or herbs like dill or parsley to the filling enhances taste.
  • If you prefer no-cook filling, combine raw chopped spinach with cottage cheese, Parmigiano, and salt without sautéing.
  • Ensure you only dip one side of the rice paper in egg wash for easier rolling and a crisp finish.
  • Adjust air fryer times slightly depending on your specific model to avoid overcooking.

Keywords: Rice Paper Spanakopita, Greek appetizer, spinach cheese roll, air fryer recipe, healthy spanakopita, vegetarian snack, Lebanese rice paper recipe