Spinach Stuffed Pastry is a perfect blend of health and taste, offering a delightful combination of flaky pastry and savory spinach filling. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or as an appetizer, this recipe provides a satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare yet impressively flavorful. The earthy spinach, seasoned to perfection, wrapped in golden, buttery pastry makes for an irresistible treat. Whether served hot or cold, Spinach Stuffed Pastry is sure to please your taste buds and keep your guests coming back for more.
Ingredients:
- 1 package of puff pastry (preferably thawed)
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional for added flavor)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, around 3-4 minutes.
- Add the fresh spinach leaves to the pan and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. If using frozen spinach, ensure it is well-drained and heat it through with the onion and garlic mixture.
- Season the spinach mixture with salt, pepper, and dried oregano or Italian seasoning. Stir in the lemon juice if desired. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, crumbled feta, and grated Parmesan cheeses. Add the cooked spinach mixture and stir until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut the pastry into squares or rectangles, depending on your preferred shape and size for each pastry.
- Spoon a generous amount of the spinach and cheese filling onto the center of each pastry square. Fold the pastry over to form a triangle or rectangle shape, sealing the edges by pressing them together with a fork.
- Beat the egg and brush it over the top of each pastry to create a golden, glossy finish when baked.
- Place the filled pastries onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they’re spaced apart to allow for proper puffing and baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the pastries are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to avoid burning.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let the pastries cool slightly before serving.
These Spinach Stuffed Pastries are best enjoyed fresh and warm, but they can also be stored in an airtight container for up to two days. For an added twist, you can experiment with other fillings, such as adding mushrooms or nuts for extra texture and flavor. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a delicious snack, these savory treats will not disappoint.
Conclusion: Spinach Stuffed Pastry is a versatile, wholesome, and delightful dish that combines the goodness of spinach with the indulgent nature of buttery puff pastry. It’s perfect for all occasions and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced cook, this recipe is simple to follow and will leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy this savory pastry as a quick snack or as part of a larger meal, and watch it become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.