Spinach Stuffed Pastries – A Flaky, Savory Delight 🥐🌱
If you’re searching for an easy-to-make yet impressive appetizer or snack, Spinach Stuffed Pastries are the perfect choice! With their crispy, flaky texture and savory spinach filling, these pastries are ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a delicious treat, these pastries are sure to please the crowd.
Ingredients:
For the Pastry:
- 1 package of puff pastry sheets (thawed)
For the Filling:
- 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 diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 egg (beaten, for brushing)
- A pinch of salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: A pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 2–3 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 3 minutes. Remove the skillet from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach mixture with ricotta cheese, feta cheese, Parmesan cheese, a pinch of salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Mix until well combined.
2. Prepare the Pastry:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Cut the pastry into squares or rectangles, depending on the size you want for each pastry.
3. Assemble the Pastries:
- Place a spoonful of the spinach filling in the center of each pastry square.
- Fold the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or rectangle, pressing the edges together to seal.
- Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative finish.
- Brush the tops of the pastries with the beaten egg for a golden, shiny finish.
4. Bake the Pastries:
- Arrange the pastries on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the pastries are puffed and golden brown.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm as an appetizer, snack, or light meal.
- Pair with a side of marinara sauce or tzatziki for dipping, adding an extra layer of flavor.
Tips for Perfect Pastries:
- Thaw the Puff Pastry Properly: Ensure the pastry is fully thawed but still cold when working with it. This prevents it from becoming too soft and losing its crispiness.
- Customize the Filling: Add other ingredients like cooked mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or even shredded chicken for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.
- Storage: Store any leftover pastries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.
These Spinach Stuffed Pastries are not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize the filling to your taste. With their flaky golden crust and savory, cheesy spinach filling, they’re bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Perfect for any occasion, these pastries are guaranteed to impress your guests!