Craving something savory, flaky, and filled with delicious greens? This Spinach Stuffed Pastry is the answer! Imagine crispy, golden-brown puff pastry wrapped around a rich spinach and cheese filling, seasoned with garlic and herbs. This recipe is easy to prepare and perfect as an appetizer, snack, or light meal. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s packed with nutrients, making it both tasty and healthy. Serve warm, with a tangy yogurt dip or a hint of hot sauce, for a perfect bite every time.
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed)
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (or feta for a tangy twist)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pastry:
- 1 package puff pastry sheets (2 sheets), thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Sesame seeds or poppy seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the chopped spinach to the skillet. If using fresh spinach, cook until wilted; if using frozen spinach, ensure it is well-drained before adding. Stir in the oregano, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach mixture with ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, and the beaten egg. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 2: Assemble the Pastry
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Cut each sheet into equal squares or rectangles, depending on the size you prefer.
- Spoon 1-2 tablespoons of the spinach filling onto one half of each pastry square, leaving space around the edges. Fold the pastry over to form a triangle or rectangle. Use a fork to crimp and seal the edges.
- Transfer the stuffed pastries to the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to create a golden, shiny finish. Sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds if desired.
Step 3: Bake and Serve
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastries are puffed and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These pastries are delicious warm or at room temperature.
- Serve with a side of yogurt dip, tzatziki, or your favorite sauce. Enjoy!