Cheesy spinach stuffed pastries are a delightful treat, perfect for a light meal, snack, or appetizer. They combine the rich flavors of spinach, ricotta, and Parmesan cheese, all wrapped in a flaky puff pastry. This recipe is easy to make and results in a delicious, savory pastry that’s sure to be a hit with everyone.
Ingredients:
- 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Spinach Filling
- Sauté the Spinach:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach and sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until wilted. If the spinach releases excess water, be sure to drain it off to prevent the pastry from becoming soggy.
- Mix the Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed spinach, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until the mixture is well combined and creamy.
- Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste the filling and adjust the seasoning if necessary. The filling should be flavorful with a good balance of garlic, cheese, and spinach.
Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the pastries from sticking.
- Roll Out the Pastry:
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheets to smooth out any creases. If using store-bought puff pastry, it should be about 1/8 inch thick after rolling.
- Cut the Pastry:
- Cut each puff pastry sheet into equal-sized squares or rectangles, depending on your preference. You should get about 4-6 pieces from each sheet.
Step 3: Assemble the Pastries
- Add the Filling:
- Spoon a generous amount of the spinach and cheese mixture onto the center of each puff pastry square. Be careful not to overfill the pastry to ensure that it seals properly.
- Seal the Pastries:
- Fold the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or rectangle. Press the edges together with a fork to seal the pastry, making sure the filling doesn’t leak out during baking.
- Egg Wash:
- Brush the tops of the pastries with the beaten egg. This will give the pastries a beautiful golden color and a shiny finish when baked.
Step 4: Bake the Pastries
- Bake the Pastries:
- Place the assembled pastries on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown and puffed up.
- Cool Slightly:
- Once baked, remove the pastries from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on a wire rack. This will make them easier to handle and enhance their crispiness.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve Warm:
- These cheesy spinach stuffed pastries are best served warm, fresh out of the oven. The filling will be creamy, and the pastry will be perfectly crispy.
- Garnish (Optional):
- For an extra touch, garnish the pastries with a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese or some fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
Tips for Success
- Thawing Puff Pastry: Ensure the puff pastry is fully thawed but still cold before using. If the pastry becomes too warm, it can be difficult to work with and may not puff up properly during baking.
- Handling Puff Pastry: Work quickly when handling puff pastry. If the pastry becomes too soft, place it back in the refrigerator for a few minutes to firm up.
- Filling Variations: Customize the filling by adding ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or cooked bacon. Just ensure the filling doesn’t overpower the pastry.
- Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover pastries in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain the crispiness.
- Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the pastries ahead of time and freeze them. Prepare the pastries as directed, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Cheesy spinach stuffed pastries are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many settings. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a delicious appetizer, or a light meal, these pastries are sure to impress. The combination of flaky puff pastry and a rich, cheesy spinach filling is a match made in culinary heaven. This recipe is simple to make and can be easily customized to suit your tastes. Enjoy them warm with a side of marinara sauce or as they are, and savor every bite!
