This recipe sounds absolutely delicious! It’s great that your kids love them fresh out of the oven.
The combination of lamb, feta, and herbs wrapped in puff pastry is mouthwatering, and the option to customize with different meats is a nice touch.
Yields: 24-30 rolls
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 20-25 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
1 lb ground lamb
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese.
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
2 cloves garlic, minced.
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional).
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Dough:
1 sheet of store-bought puff pastry, thawed
Instructions:
Make the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, feta cheese, parsley, mint, garlic, oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well until evenly combined.
Prepare the Puff Pastry: Unfold the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. If using frozen puff pastry, thaw it according to package directions.
Assemble the Sausage Rolls: Divide the meat mixture into 24-30 equal portions.
Place a small mound of meat mixture onto the center of each puff pastry rectangle.
Shape the Rolls: Fold the puff pastry over the meat mixture to create a triangle or rectangle shape. Press the edges together firmly to seal.
Cut and Arrange: Cut each roll into desired shapes (e.g., triangles, rectangles).
Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
Serve: Let the sausage rolls cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Tips:
You can use any type of ground meat you prefer, such as beef, chicken, or a combination.
For extra flavor, marinate the ground meat in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for a few hours before using.
If you don’t have fresh herbs, you can use dried herbs, but use about 1/3 of the amount called for.
These sausage rolls can be made ahead of time and frozen. Bake from frozen, adding a few minutes to the baking time.
Enjoy your delicious Mediterranean Sausage Rolls!
Here are some variations and tips to customize your Mediterranean Sausage Rolls:
Variations:
Meat Options:
Use ground beef, chicken, turkey, or pork instead of lamb.
Try mixing lamb with beef or turkey for a lighter flavor.
For a vegetarian option, substitute with cooked lentils or mashed chickpeas combined with crumbled feta, herbs, and spices.
Cheese Alternatives:
Swap feta with ricotta, goat cheese, or halloumi for a different texture and flavor.
Add grated Parmesan or pecorino for a sharp, nutty flavor boost.
Herb and Spice Tweaks:
Add a teaspoon of cumin or coriander for earthy notes.
Replace mint with fresh dill or basil for a milder herbal taste.
Add a touch of cinnamon or allspice for a hint of warmth.
Add Veggies:
Finely dice and sauté onions, bell peppers, or spinach to mix into the filling.
Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a tangy, savory kick.
Pastry Changes:
Replace puff pastry with phyllo dough for a lighter, crispier version (brush with melted butter between layers).
Use crescent roll dough for a softer, bread-like roll.
Shape Ideas:
Roll the filling into a log, wrap with puff pastry, and slice into pinwheels.
Make bite-sized rolls for appetizers or larger ones for a main dish.
Dips and Toppings:
Serve with tzatziki, hummus, or harissa yogurt for dipping.
Sprinkle sesame seeds or nigella seeds on top before baking for added texture.
Tips:
Prep Ahead:
Assemble the sausage rolls in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Freeze uncooked rolls for up to 3 months and bake from frozen (just add 5-7 minutes).
Even Filling:
Use a small cookie scoop or a measuring spoon to ensure even portions of filling for consistent baking.
Sealing the Pastry:
Use a beaten egg or water to brush the edges of the pastry to help seal them securely.
Egg wash the tops before baking for a golden, glossy finish.
Cooking Meat Mixture:
If unsure about seasoning, cook a small portion of the filling in a skillet to taste before assembling the rolls.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair with a Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or couscous for a full Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Perfect for lunchboxes, picnics, or as party snacks.
To store your Mediterranean Sausage Rolls, allow them to cool completely if baked, then place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap or foil.
Cooked sausage rolls can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. If you’d like to freeze them, arrange the cooled rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
They will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. For uncooked rolls, assemble them and freeze in a similar manner, baking directly from frozen when ready, adding 5-7 minutes to the cooking time.
When reheating cooked sausage rolls, use an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) or an air fryer at 325°F (160°C) for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.
Avoid microwaving, as it may make the pastry soggy. For best results, store rolls in a single layer with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking, and always label containers with the date for freshness.