Introduction:
Spinach stuffed pastries are a savory and delicious treat, perfect for a snack, appetizer, or light meal.
The flaky pastry dough is filled with a creamy, savory spinach filling, creating a satisfying bite.
These pastries can be baked or fried, offering versatility depending on your preference. Whether you’re preparing them for a party, a family gathering, or a simple weeknight meal, they’re sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
For the filling:
2 cups fresh spinach (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup ricotta cheese (optional for creaminess)
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for added flavor)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
For the pastry:
1 package puff pastry (store-bought or homemade, thawed if frozen)
1 egg (for egg wash, optional)
1 tablespoon water (to mix with egg for the egg wash)
Instructions:
Prepare the filling:
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant (about 3-4 minutes).
Add the spinach to the pan and cook until wilted (for fresh spinach) or heated through (for frozen spinach).
If using fresh spinach, make sure to cook until all moisture is evaporated.
Stir in the ricotta cheese, feta cheese, and nutmeg (if using).
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Set aside to cool.
Prepare the pastry:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut the pastry into squares or rectangles, depending on your preferred shape for the pastry (typically 3×3-inch or 4×4-inch squares).
Spoon a generous amount of the cooled spinach mixture into the center of each pastry square.
Assemble the pastry:
Fold the pastry over the filling to create a triangle or rectangle shape, depending on the cut of your pastry. Press the edges firmly to seal the edges, either using a fork to crimp or pinching with your fingers.
If desired, beat the egg with a tablespoon of water and brush the top of each pastry with the egg wash to achieve a golden, shiny finish.
Bake:
Place the stuffed pastries on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the pastries are golden and puffed.
Serve:
Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.
Description:
These spinach stuffed pastries are the perfect balance of crispy, flaky pastry and a savory, creamy spinach filling. The combination of ricotta and feta cheeses provides a rich texture and tangy flavor, complementing the earthiness of the spinach.
The buttery puff pastry adds a light and airy crunch, making each bite irresistible.
These pastries are versatile, easy to make, and a great way to sneak in some greens!
Tips:
Make ahead:
You can prepare these pastries in advance and store them in the fridge before baking.
If you want to freeze them, do so after assembling but before baking.
When you’re ready to cook, just bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Flaky texture:
For extra flaky pastry, ensure that the puff pastry stays cold before baking.
Warm pastry will not puff as much, so handle it minimally and keep it chilled.
Spices:
Feel free to experiment with herbs and spices like garlic powder, cumin, or chili flakes to customize the flavor of the spinach filling.
Variations:
Add meat:
If you want a heartier filling, you can add cooked chicken, ground beef, or sausage to the spinach mixture.
Vegan option: Use a dairy-free puff pastry and substitute the cheeses with vegan cream cheese and nutritional yeast or vegan feta.
Other greens: Kale, Swiss chard, or even a mix of herbs like parsley and basil can replace spinach for a different twist.
Cheese variations: Swap feta for goat cheese or Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
Correction:
Spinach moisture: If you’re using fresh spinach, make sure to thoroughly dry it after cooking to prevent the filling from becoming too watery. You can even squeeze the spinach in a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture.
Enjoy:
Serve these delicious spinach stuffed pastries warm with a side of tzatziki, marinara, or your favorite dipping sauce. They make a great accompaniment to a salad or as part of a Mediterranean-inspired meal. Enjoy the crispy, creamy goodness in every bite!