Introduction: Spinach Stuffed Pastry is a delightful and savory snack, combining the richness of spinach and cheese with the crispiness of golden, flaky pastry. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, this dish is both nutritious and delicious. Perfect for a cozy brunch or party appetizer, the savory filling of spinach, garlic, and creamy cheese wrapped in buttery pastry is irresistible.
Ingredients:
1 package of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
2 cups fresh spinach (chopped)
1/2 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 small onion (finely chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 egg (for egg wash)
1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
Instructions:
Prepare the Filling:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant.
Add the chopped spinach to the pan and cook until wilted and any excess moisture has evaporated (about 3-4 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
Remove from heat and let the spinach mixture cool slightly. Then, stir in ricotta cheese, crumbled feta, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
Prepare the Pastry:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. If using store-bought, ensure it’s thawed and ready to use.
Cut the pastry into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference for the size of the pastries.
Assemble the Pastry:
Place a spoonful of the spinach mixture in the center of each pastry square.
Fold the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or rectangle, pressing the edges to seal tightly. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative finish.
Egg Wash:
In a small bowl, whisk the egg with water to create an egg wash. Brush the egg wash over the top of each pastry to give them a golden, glossy finish.
Bake:
Place the stuffed pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the pastries are golden brown and puffed up.
Serve:
Once baked, let the pastries cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!
Description:
Spinach Stuffed Pastry is a perfect combination of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors. The spinach filling, made with a blend of cheeses, offers a fresh taste, while the puff pastry provides a flaky, buttery texture. It’s the ideal balance of flavors and textures, making it a hit at any occasion.
Tips:
Freezing: You can freeze these pastries before baking. Assemble them and place them on a baking sheet in the freezer. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container. When ready to bake, just brush with egg wash and bake straight from the freezer. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Cheese Variations: You can mix and match the cheese to suit your taste. Try adding mozzarella, cheddar, or goat cheese for different flavor profiles.
Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chili powder to the spinach mixture for a spicy kick.
Herb Variations: Fresh herbs like basil, dill, or thyme can be added to the spinach filling to enhance the flavor.
Variations:
Meat Addition: Add cooked ground chicken, turkey, or sausage to the spinach mixture for a heartier filling.
Vegan Option: Use dairy-free cheese and replace the egg wash with a plant-based alternative to make these pastries vegan.
Phyllo Pastry: For a lighter, crunchier texture, you can use phyllo dough instead of puff pastry. Brush each layer with olive oil to ensure crispiness.
Correction:
If you find the pastry is not browning as expected, make sure your oven is fully preheated before placing the pastries inside.
If the spinach mixture is too watery, drain excess liquid before using it to prevent sogginess in the pastry.
Enjoy:
Now, sit back and enjoy these delicious, crispy, and savory spinach stuffed pastries that are perfect for any gathering or as a tasty treat any time of day!