Low-Calorie Crispy Rice Paper Spanakopita

If you love traditional Greek Spanakopita but want a light, high-volume version without all the heavy butter and complex phyllo dough layers, this viral hack is for you.

By dipping delicate rice paper sheets directly into whisked egg before wrapping up a savory spinach and feta filling, the paper bakes up into an insanely crisp, golden-brown pastry shell. Rolled into fun individual spirals and topped with sesame seeds, these crispy bites pack all the savory garlic-herb flavor of classic Greek spinach pie for a fraction of the calories and fats.

Prep time, Cook time, Servings

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 15 minutes

• Yield: 2 spirals (1 serving)

Ingredients

The Creamy Spinach & Feta Filling

• 1 tsp olive oil

• ½ small onion, finely diced

• 3–4 cups fresh baby spinach (or approx. 150g)

• ¼ cup reduced-fat feta cheese, crumbled

• A pinch of garlic powder, salt, and black pepper

The Crispy Wrapper & Toppings

• 2 round sheets rice paper (spring roll wrappers)

• 1 large egg, whisked (for dipping)

• ½ tsp sesame seeds (for sprinkle on top)

• Avocado oil spray

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Spinach Filling 🍳

Heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add your diced onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until translucent and soft. Toss in the fresh baby spinach and cook just until wilted (about 1–2 minutes). Remove the skillet from the heat, then stir in the crumbled feta cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until combined and set aside to cool slightly.

2. Dip the Rice Paper in Egg 🥚

Whisk one egg in a wide shallow dish or plate. Take a sheet of rice paper and submerge it completely into the egg mixture for a few seconds until well coated and slightly softened.

3. Fill and Roll 🌀

Lay the egg-coated rice paper flat on a clean surface. Spoon half of the spinach and feta filling in a long, even line across the bottom edge of the rice paper. Roll the rice paper up tightly over the filling into a long tube, then coil the tube inward on itself to form a neat spiral shape. Repeat with the second sheet of rice paper and remaining filling.

4. Top and Bake or Air Fry 🔥

Place your assembled spirals on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper (or directly in your air fryer basket) and give the tops a quick spray of avocado oil. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top.

• Oven Method: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12 to 15 minutes until puffed, crisp, and golden brown.

• Air Fryer Method: Air fry at 380°F (190°C) for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through if needed, until crispy.

5. Serve & Enjoy ✨

Let them cool for 2 minutes to lock in that extra-crunchy exterior, slice in half, and enjoy immediately!

📊 Estimated Macros (Per Serving - 2 Spirals)