If you’re craving a flaky, bakery-style snack that feels elegant yet effortless, Savory Feta Turnovers are exactly what you need. These golden puff-pastry triangles deliver everything we love in one bite: crisp layers, a creamy feta filling, and a surprising sweet finish. Whether you’re planning a brunch spread, an appetizer for guests, or a satisfying savory treat to enjoy with tea, this recipe answers the need for something quick, impressive, and deeply comforting. With bold Mediterranean flavors and a foolproof method, these turnovers set the tone for a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Effortless – Using store-bought puff pastry means you get professional results without complicated steps or long prep time.
- Simple, Bold Ingredients – Salty feta, aromatic mint, and preserved lemon create a balanced, vibrant filling with minimal effort.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Ideal as an appetizer, brunch item, or light lunch paired with a salad.
- Sweet-Savory Contrast – A drizzle of honey at the end transforms these turnovers into something unforgettable.
- Crowd-Pleasing & Elegant – Crisp, golden triangles that look bakery-made and taste even better.
What makes these Savory Feta Turnovers stand out is the flavor balance: salty cheese, bright citrus notes, and a gentle sweetness that elevates the dish beyond a standard cheese pastry. They’re comforting, impressive, and endlessly satisfying.
Ingredients Needed
For the Feta Filling
- 10½ ounces (300 g) feta cheese, crumbled – Choose a good-quality feta for a creamy yet crumbly texture.
- 1½ tablespoons preserved lemon, seeded and finely chopped – Adds brightness and depth; rinse lightly if very salty.
- 1 tablespoon dried mint – Brings a subtle herbal freshness that pairs beautifully with feta.
- 2 garlic cloves, finely minced or pressed – For a gentle savory kick without overpowering the cheese.
For the Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed (about 14 ounces) – Cold but pliable puff pastry gives the best rise.
- All-purpose flour, for dusting – Prevents sticking while rolling.
For Finishing
- 1 large egg, beaten – Creates a glossy, golden finish.
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds – Add nutty flavor and visual appeal.
- 6 tablespoons honey, for serving – Optional but highly recommended for contrast.
How to Make Savory Feta Turnovers
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even browning. Starting with a hot oven is essential for achieving crisp, well-defined puff pastry layers.
Step 2: Mix the Feta Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled feta, finely chopped preserved lemon, dried mint, and minced garlic. Use a fork to gently mix everything together until evenly distributed. Avoid over-mixing—keeping some texture in the feta ensures a creamy yet slightly crumbly filling once baked.
Tip: Taste the mixture before assembling. Feta and preserved lemon vary in saltiness, so this step helps you understand the flavor balance.
Step 3: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Lightly dust your work surface with flour and unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet. Run a lightly floured rolling pin over the pastry to smooth out creases and create an even surface. This step helps the pastry bake uniformly.
Cut the sheet into 6 equal squares, roughly 4½ inches each. Try to keep the cuts clean for neat edges.
Step 4: Fill and Shape the Turnovers
Spoon about 2½ tablespoons of filling into the center of each pastry square. Adjust slightly depending on the exact size of your squares—overfilling can cause leakage during baking.
Fold one corner of the square over the filling to meet the opposite corner, forming a triangle. Press the edges gently with your fingers, then seal firmly using the tines of a fork. This not only prevents filling from escaping but also creates a decorative edge.
Step 5: Egg Wash and Bake
Arrange the turnovers on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each. Brush the tops generously with beaten egg for a shiny, golden crust. Sprinkle with sesame seeds for extra flavor and crunch.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the turnovers are puffed and deeply golden brown.
Step 6: Rest and Finish
Remove the turnovers from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes. This brief rest allows the filling to settle. Just before serving, drizzle lightly with honey for a beautiful sweet-savory finish.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serve Savory Feta Turnovers warm or at room temperature for the best texture and flavor. They pair wonderfully with:
- A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Yogurt or labneh on the side
- Olives and fresh herbs for a mezze-style platter
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it softens the pastry.
Helpful Notes
- Keep puff pastry cold until ready to use; warm pastry won’t puff as well.
- If your feta is very salty, reduce the preserved lemon slightly.
- For extra richness, you can add a teaspoon of olive oil to the filling.
- These turnovers freeze well unbaked—assemble, freeze solid, then bake straight from frozen with a few extra minutes added.
Conclusion
Savory Feta Turnovers are proof that simple ingredients can create extraordinary results. With flaky puff pastry, a boldly flavored feta filling, and a touch of honey, this recipe delivers comfort and sophistication in every bite. They’re quick enough for a weekday treat yet impressive enough for entertaining, making them a true kitchen staple.
If you try this recipe, don’t forget to leave a comment and a star rating—your feedback helps others discover it too. Share your turnovers on Pinterest or Facebook, and let us know: did you stick with the classic version, or add your own twist? We’d love to hear how you made it yours.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use another cheese instead of feta?
Yes. Ricotta mixed with a bit of salt or goat cheese works well, but feta provides the most authentic flavor and structure.
How do I make these turnovers gluten-free?
Use a high-quality gluten-free puff pastry. Baking times may vary slightly, so watch for a golden finish.
Why did my filling leak out?
Overfilling or not sealing the edges properly can cause leakage. Use a fork to press edges firmly and avoid excess filling.
Can I freeze Savory Feta Turnovers?
Absolutely. Freeze them unbaked, then bake directly from frozen, adding 5–7 minutes to the baking time.
Should the filling be smooth or chunky?
The filling should be mostly crumbly with small creamy pockets. Avoid blending it into a paste for best texture.
Savory Feta Turnovers
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, gently combine the feta cheese, preserved lemon, dried mint, and minced garlic until evenly mixed but still slightly crumbly.
- Lightly flour a work surface and roll out the puff pastry to smooth creases. Cut into 6 equal squares.
- Spoon about 2½ tablespoons of filling into the center of each square. Fold diagonally into a triangle, press edges together, and seal firmly with a fork.
- Transfer turnovers to the baking sheet. Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
- Let rest for 5 minutes, then drizzle lightly with honey before serving if desired.