Description
This Feta Spinach and Pesto Brioche is a deliciously savory appetizer or brunch side featuring a soft brioche loaf stuffed with a flavorful mix of sautéed spinach, creamy feta, basil pesto, and cream cheese. Enhanced with garlic and black pepper, then baked until golden and warm, this Mediterranean-inspired dish offers a perfect balance of cheesy richness and fresh herbaceous notes.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 brioche loaf (unsliced)
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons basil pesto
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Garnishes
- Egg wash (1 egg + 1 tablespoon water) for brushing
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the brioche after filling it.
- Sauté garlic and spinach: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add the chopped spinach and cook for 1–2 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Prepare the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled feta, softened cream cheese, basil pesto, sautéed spinach, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Prepare the brioche: Slice the brioche loaf lengthwise like a sandwich or create deep cross-hatch slits on top if you prefer a pull-apart bread style.
- Fill the brioche: Stuff or spread the feta-spinach-pesto mixture evenly inside the sliced loaf or within the cross-hatch slits to ensure flavor in every bite.
- Optional finishing touches: If desired, brush the top of the brioche with the egg wash to achieve a golden crust and sprinkle with sesame seeds for added texture and visual appeal.
- Bake: Place the prepared brioche in the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, until warmed through and golden on top.
- Serve: Remove from oven and serve warm as a savory appetizer or a delightful brunch side.
Notes
- You can use either store-bought or homemade brioche depending on availability and preference.
- Spinach can be substituted with kale or arugula for a different leafy green flavor.
- For a more indulgent dish, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top before baking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
