Feta and Spinach Bagels

Name: Feta and Spinach Bagels
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 cup yogurt; 1 egg (for egg wash); 1 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1 cup cooked spinach (cooled and drained); 1 clove garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Lean & Light Cooking

I absolutely love making Feta and Spinach Bagels for breakfast or brunch. The combination of creamy feta cheese with vibrant spinach creates a savory delight that’s simply irresistible. Each bite bursts with flavor, and the slight crunch from the bagel perfectly complements the soft, cheesy filling. I often prepare these bagels when I want something quick yet impressive. Plus, they’re great for using up leftover spinach! Trust me, once you try them, you'll be hooked.

Created by

Tina

Last updated on 2026-01-25T18:46:28.188Z

When I first tried my hand at making Feta and Spinach Bagels, I was amazed at how simple yet delicious they were. I initially thought bagels required a complex process, but it turns out with the right ingredients and a bit of patience, they can be incredibly easy to whip up at home. I love to experiment with different herbs and spices to make the filling even more exciting.

One tip I recommend is to make sure you squeeze out any excess moisture from the spinach before mixing it with the feta. This little step ensures that the filling doesn’t make the bagels soggy, allowing them to retain that lovely chewy texture. These bagels have become a staple in my kitchen!

Why You Will Love These Bagels
A delightful blend of creamy feta and fresh spinach
Chewy bagels with a crispy exterior that contrast beautifully
Easy to make and perfect for breakfast or a snack
Great way to sneak in some greens into your meal

Dough Mastery

When preparing the dough for these Feta and Spinach Bagels, it’s crucial to achieve the right consistency. The key is to combine the dry ingredients thoroughly before adding the yogurt. This ensures that the baking powder is evenly distributed, which will help the bagels rise properly during baking. Kneading the dough for about five minutes until it’s smooth will create a nice gluten structure that will provide the chewy texture we're looking for.

If the dough feels too sticky, lightly flour your hands and the work surface while kneading it. On the other hand, if it’s too dry, adding a tablespoon of yogurt or water can help bring it together. The goal is a smooth and slightly tacky dough that holds its shape but isn’t overly sticky. Once shaped, let the bagels rest for about 10 minutes to relax the gluten before filling them.

Filling Flavor

The filling of these bagels is where the magic truly happens. Using fresh, cooked spinach not only enhances the flavor but also adds a vibrant green color that contrasts beautifully with the creamy feta. Make sure to cool and drain the spinach well to avoid excess moisture, which can make the filling watery. For an even bolder taste, consider sautéing the spinach with a bit of olive oil before mixing it into the cheese; this enhances the flavor depth.

You can experiment with the filling by adding herbs or spices like dill or crushed red pepper flakes for extra zing. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, substituting crumbled tofu for feta can provide a similar texture, and nutritional yeast can be added for a cheesy flavor. Just ensure any substitutes are well-seasoned to maintain the flavor balance.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Feta and Spinach Bagels:

For the Dough

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 cup yogurt
1 egg (for egg wash)

For the Filling

1 cup crumbled feta cheese
1 cup cooked spinach (cooled and drained)
1 clove garlic (minced)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

With these ingredients on hand, you're ready to create your delicious bagels!

Instructions

Directions

Follow these steps to create scrumptious Feta and Spinach Bagels:

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Mix well, then add the yogurt gradually, stirring until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth.

Make the Filling

In another bowl, mix the crumbled feta, cooked spinach, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper until combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into a round ball, then create a hole in the center with your fingers to form a bagel shape.

Fill the Bagels

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the shaped bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spoon the filling into the center of each bagel. Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.

Bake

Bake the bagels for about 15 minutes until they are golden brown. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your fresh Feta and Spinach Bagels warm!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like dill or parsley to the filling. You can also substitute the yogurt with buttermilk for a different taste.

Serving Suggestions

These Feta and Spinach Bagels are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven. However, they also hold up well as leftovers and can be reheated easily in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. For a delightful breakfast, serve them with a side of fresh fruit, yogurt, or a salad to enjoy a balanced meal.

Consider slicing the bagels in half and toasting them lightly. This will enhance their crispy exterior, providing a delightful contrast to the creamy filling. A dollop of Greek yogurt or a tangy sauce can elevate the experience, making them perfect for brunch gatherings with friends or family.

Storage Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, store the bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To keep them fresh longer, you can freeze the bagels. Just ensure they are well-wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months.

When ready to enjoy frozen bagels, simply thaw them at room temperature and then reheat in the oven. This method restores their original texture, making them almost as good as fresh. Reheating them directly from frozen will take a bit longer, around 10–12 minutes at 375°F (190°C).

Creative Variations

Feel free to get creative with these bagels by trying different cheese and vegetable combinations. Goat cheese pairs wonderfully with roasted red peppers, while a mixture of cream cheese and sautéed mushrooms provides a rich filling option. You can also consider adding spices like cumin or paprika to the filling for an unexpected twist.

For a twist on presentation, try shaping the dough into mini bagel bites for easy serving. These bite-sized delights make perfect appetizers at gatherings. Just be sure to adjust the baking time, as they will likely cook faster than the larger bagels—approximately 10-12 minutes should suffice.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh spinach instead of cooked?

Yes, but you will need to sauté it briefly to reduce moisture.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the bagels?

Absolutely! They freeze well. Just wrap them tightly and enjoy within a month.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

You can use goat cheese or ricotta for a different flavor profile.