Spinach Fritters With Feta + Yogurt Dip
Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with vibrant green flavor, these Spinach Fritters with Feta are a total delight. They’re savory little bites that are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a light meal. Paired with a creamy, tangy yogurt dip, they’re impossible to resist—trust me, you’ll want to double the batch!
Imagine biting into a golden fritter, the aroma of fresh herbs hitting you first, followed by the creamy tang of feta and that hint of lemon. Then, dunk it into a smooth, cooling yogurt dip that brightens every bite. Yes, friends, this is what food dreams are made of.
Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, a brunch with friends, or a fun appetizer for a party, these fritters are versatile, flavorful, and downright addictive.
Recipe Origin
Fritters have been a beloved snack in cuisines around the world for centuries. In Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cooking, combining fresh greens with cheese and herbs is a classic way to create something light, flavorful, and nourishing. These spinach fritters are inspired by that tradition but updated with fresh herbs and a creamy yogurt dip to make them feel fresh, bright, and perfect for modern palates.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
No fancy gadgets are required—just the basics you probably already have in your kitchen:
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium mixing bowl (for the dip)
- Knife and chopping board
- Frying pan or skillet
- Spatula
- Whisk (for the dip)
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Paper towels (for draining fritters)
Spinach Fritters With Feta + Yogurt Dip
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 15–18 fritters 1x
- Category: Appetizer / Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These spinach fritters with feta are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with fresh herbs. Served with a zesty yogurt dip, they make a perfect appetizer, side dish, or light meal with a Mediterranean flair.
Ingredients
For the Spinach Fritters:
- 300 g (10.5 oz) fresh spinach or baby spinach leaves, finely chopped
- 100 g (3.5 oz) collard greens, leaves only, finely chopped
- ⅓ tsp kosher salt
- 80 g (2.8 oz) red onion, minced
- 80 g (2.8 oz) spring onions, minced
- 1 medium egg
- 100 g (3.5 oz) feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tbsp dill, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tsp spearmint, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- ⅔ tsp baking soda
- 200 g (7 oz) all-purpose flour
- Frying oil (sunflower or corn oil)
For the Yogurt Dip:
- 120 g (4.2 oz) Greek yogurt
- 2 tsp fresh lemon juice
- ⅓ lemon, zest only
- ⅓ tsp spearmint, finely chopped
- ½ tsp dill, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Place the chopped spinach and collard greens in a bowl, sprinkle with salt, and let sit for 10 minutes. Squeeze out any excess liquid with your hands or a clean towel.
- In a large bowl, combine the greens with red onion, spring onions, egg, crumbled feta, dill, parsley, spearmint, lemon juice, and baking soda.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing until a thick batter forms that can hold its shape.
- Heat a generous amount of frying oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, flattening slightly with the back of the spoon.
- Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 2–3 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- For the yogurt dip: mix together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, lemon zest, spearmint, dill, salt, and pepper until creamy and smooth.
- Serve the fritters warm with the yogurt dip on the side.
Notes
- Make sure to squeeze out as much water as possible from the greens to avoid soggy fritters.
- These fritters can be baked in the oven for a lighter version; just brush with olive oil and bake at 200°C (400°F) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
- You can prepare the yogurt dip ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Serve as an appetizer, snack, or even tucked into pita bread for a quick lunch.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 fritters + 1 tbsp dip
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: spinach fritters, Greek fritters, feta fritters, spinach recipes, vegetarian appetizers
Why You’ll Love Spinach Fritters With Feta + Yogurt Dip
These fritters aren’t just about ingredients—they’re about the experience. Here’s why they deserve a regular spot on your menu:
Versatile
Great as a snack, appetizer, or light meal. Pair with a salad for lunch or serve with drinks at a party—it works every time.
Quick and Easy
Even if you’ve never made fritters before, this recipe is straightforward. A little chopping, mixing, frying, and you’re done!
Healthy and Flavorful
Packed with greens and fresh herbs, and baked/fried to golden perfection. You get indulgent flavor without feeling heavy.
Crowd-Pleasing
Kids, adults, vegetarians, herb-lovers—everyone will go crazy for these. The combination of crispy exterior, soft interior, and creamy yogurt dip is a universal win.
Customizable
Add more spices, swap feta for halloumi, or mix in other leafy greens. Make them your own!
Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results
- Chop the greens finely. This helps the fritters hold together and cook evenly.
- Don’t overmix. Mix just until combined so the fritters stay light and tender.
- Use medium heat when frying. This ensures a golden exterior without burning.
- Drain on paper towels. Keeps fritters crisp and avoids sogginess.
- Fresh herbs are key. Dill, parsley, and spearmint elevate the flavor and aroma.
Ingredients in Spinach Fritters With Feta + Yogurt Dip
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
For the Spinach Fritters
Spinach: Fresh and vibrant, forming the base of these fritters.
Collard Greens: Adds a slightly earthy depth and structure to the fritters.
Kosher Salt: Brings out the natural flavors of the greens.
Red Onion: Adds sweetness and a bit of bite.
Spring Onions: Mellow and slightly peppery, enhancing the fritters’ flavor.
Egg: Helps bind the ingredients together.
Feta Cheese: Creamy, tangy, and full of flavor—this is the heart of the fritters.
Dill, Parsley, and Spearmint: Fresh herbs give brightness and complexity.
Lemon Juice: Lifts the flavors with a subtle zing.
Baking Soda: Helps create light, fluffy fritters.
All-Purpose Flour: Gives structure so fritters hold together when frying.
Frying Oil: Sunflower or corn oil for a perfect golden crust.
For the Yogurt Dip
Greek Yogurt: Creamy and tangy, the perfect dipping base.
Lemon Juice & Zest: Adds freshness and brightness.
Spearmint & Dill: Fresh herbs that complement the fritters perfectly.
Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
Instructions
Let’s turn these ingredients into golden, herb-packed fritters:
Prepare the Greens: Wash and finely chop spinach and collard greens. Squeeze out any excess water if needed.
Mix the Fritters: In a large bowl, combine chopped greens, red onion, spring onions, salt, egg, feta, herbs, lemon juice, and baking soda. Mix until just combined.
Add the Flour: Stir in flour gradually until the mixture comes together but remains slightly loose—fritters should be moist but hold their shape.
Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat sunflower or corn oil over medium heat.
Fry the Fritters: Spoon small portions of the mixture into the skillet, flattening slightly with the back of the spoon. Fry for 3–4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
Drain: Remove fritters and place on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Make the Yogurt Dip: While the fritters fry, mix Greek yogurt, lemon juice and zest, chopped herbs, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
Serve and Enjoy: Plate the fritters with a generous dollop of yogurt dip. Optional garnish: a sprinkle of extra herbs or a drizzle of olive oil.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4–6
Calories per serving: ~200–250
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: 35–40 minutes
How to Serve Spinach Fritters With Feta + Yogurt Dip
- As a Snack or Appetizer: Perfect with drinks or as part of a mezze platter.
- With a Salad: Pair with a light cucumber and tomato salad for a fresh meal.
- Family-Style: Serve on a platter with extra dip for everyone to share.
- Garnish Ideas: Lemon wedges, additional herbs, or even a drizzle of chili oil for spice lovers.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
- Prep Ahead: Chop greens and herbs in advance to save time.
- Storage: Store leftover fritters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet for 2–3 minutes on each side to restore crispiness.
- Freeze Option: Fritters can be frozen uncooked. Shape, freeze on a tray, then transfer to a container for up to 1 month. Fry from frozen when ready.
Variations to Try
- Cheese Swap: Try halloumi or ricotta for a different flavor and texture.
- Extra Greens: Add kale, arugula, or Swiss chard to the mix.
- Spice it Up: Add chili flakes or cayenne for a subtle kick.
- Gluten-Free: Use chickpea flour or gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose.
- Baked Version: Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 15–20 minutes for a lighter option.
Additional Tips
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying; this helps fritters stay crisp.
- Taste the mixture before frying and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Use fresh herbs—they make a huge difference in flavor.
- Serve immediately for the best texture; fritters lose crispiness if left too long.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I make these fritters vegan?
A1: Yes! Replace the egg with a flax egg and use vegan feta or omit the cheese.
Q2: Can I bake instead of fry?
A2: Absolutely—bake on a parchment-lined tray at 200°C (400°F) for 15–20 minutes.
Q3: Can I use frozen spinach?
A3: You can, but make sure it’s fully thawed and squeezed dry to avoid soggy fritters.
Q4: How long do leftovers last?
A4: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Q5: Can I prepare the yogurt dip ahead?
A5: Yes! Keep it refrigerated in a covered bowl until ready to serve.
Q6: Can I freeze the fritters?
A6: Yes, freeze uncooked fritters on a tray, then transfer to a container. Fry directly from frozen.
Q7: Can I add other vegetables?
A7: Sure! Grated carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers can be added for variety.
Q8: Are these kid-friendly?
A8: Absolutely! Mild flavors, fun to eat, and you can sneak in extra greens.
Q9: Can I make them gluten-free?
A9: Yes, substitute flour with chickpea flour or gluten-free flour blend.
Q10: How do I keep fritters crispy?
A10: Serve immediately after frying or reheat briefly in a hot skillet.
Conclusion
Spinach Fritters with Feta + Yogurt Dip are a celebration of fresh herbs, creamy cheese, and golden, crunchy perfection. They’re light yet satisfying, easy to make, and perfect for any occasion—from casual weeknight meals to elegant appetizers.
With the bright, herbaceous yogurt dip alongside, each bite is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself making it again and again—it’s that good.
