Mediterranean Diet Cheese Empanada

Indulge in the wholesome flavors of the Mediterranean with these delectable Mediterranean Diet Cheese Empanadas, a healthier twist on a classic favorite. Made with a golden whole wheat dough infused with extra virgin olive oil, these empanadas are filled with a luscious mix of creamy feta and ricotta cheeses, briny black olives, sweet sun-dried tomatoes, and aromatic fresh basil. Baked to golden perfection, they are a lighter, heart-healthy appetizer or snack that pairs effortlessly with a crisp side salad or a zesty dipping sauce. Easy to prepare and packed with Mediterranean-inspired ingredients, these empanadas are perfect for entertaining or meal prep. Try this guilt-free pleasure today and elevate your savory snack game!

Nutriscore Rating: 66/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 250 grams Whole wheat flour
• 60 ml Extra virgin olive oil
• 100 ml Warm water
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 100 grams Feta cheese, crumbled
• 100 grams Ricotta cheese
• 50 grams Black olives, pitted and chopped
• 40 grams Sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 2 tablespoons Fresh basil, chopped
• 1 large Egg, beaten (for glazing)
• 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper

Directions

Step 1

Begin by preparing the dough. In a large bowl, mix the whole wheat flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the olive oil and warm water. Combine these ingredients until a rough dough forms.

Step 2

Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for 20 minutes.

Step 3

While the dough is resting, prepare the filling. In a medium bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese, ricotta cheese, chopped black olives, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 4

Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.

Step 5

Once the dough has rested, roll it out on a lightly floured surface until it is about 2-3 mm thick. Use a round pastry cutter or an inverted glass to cut circles approximately 10 cm in diameter.

Step 6

Place about 1 tablespoon of the cheese filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal, then crimp with a fork for decoration.

Step 7

Brush the top of each empanada with the beaten egg to achieve a golden brown color on baking.

Step 8

Arrange the empanadas on the prepared baking tray and bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until they are golden brown and crisp.

Step 9

Remove from the oven and let the empanadas cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(763.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1985.2

Total Fat 105.0g	0%
Saturated Fat 32.3g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat g
Cholesterol 330.6mg	0%
Sodium 4334.5mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 217.3g	0%
Dietary Fiber 36.0g	0%
Total Sugars 17.7g
Protein 70.9g	0%

Vitamin D 41IU	0%
Calcium 1090.6mg	0%
Iron 15.6mg	0%
Potassium 2629.6mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 45.0%

Protein: 13.5%

Carbs: 41.4%