🥧 Spinach & Cheese Pastries

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🥧 Spinach & Cheese Pastries
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A delightful fusion of flaky pastry filled with savory spinach, ricotta, feta, and mozzarella — perfect as a snack, appetizer, or light meal.

⏱️ Cooking Time

Prep: 20 minutes
Cook: 15–20 minutes
Total: 35–40 minutes
Yield: ~12 pastries (depending on size)

🛒 Ingredients

Filling:

  • 280 g fresh spinach (or thawed frozen, well-drained)

  • 250 g ricotta

  • 120 g crumbled feta

  • 120 g shredded mozzarella

  • 60 g grated Parmesan

  • ½ small onion, finely chopped

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 egg, beaten (for binding)

  • ½ tsp dried oregano

  • ½ tsp dried basil

  • Salt & pepper, to taste

Pastries:

  • 400 g puff pastry sheet (thawed if frozen)

  • 1 egg, beaten (for glazing)

  • Sesame or poppy seeds (optional garnish)

👩‍🍳 Step‑by‑Step Cooking Directions

  1. Prep the filling:
    Wash spinach and remove tough stems. Sauté in a pan over medium heat until wilted. Drain excess moisture and chop finely.

  2. Mix cheeses & herbs:
    In a bowl, combine spinach with ricotta, feta, mozzarella, Parmesan, onion, garlic, beaten egg, oregano, basil, and season to taste.

  3. Roll pastry:
    Preheat oven to 200 °C (390 °F). Roll out puff pastry on lightly floured surface; cut into 10×10 cm squares (or rectangles).

  4. Assemble pastries:
    Spoon filling onto each square. Fold into triangles or rectangles, sealing edges firmly (crimp with fork for decorative finish).

  5. Glaze & garnish:
    Place pastries on lined baking sheet. Brush tops with beaten egg, sprinkle seeds if desired.

  6. Bake:
    Bake 15–20 minutes until puffed and golden brown.

  7. Rest & serve:
    Let cool slightly before serving — enjoy warm or at room temperature.

🧮 Nutritional Information (approx. per pastry)

Calories: ~220 kcal
Protein: 8 g | Fat: 14 g | Carbs: 15 g
Fiber: 1.5 g | Sodium: 300 mg

🌍 Origins & Popularity

These spinach-cheese pastries derive inspiration from Mediterranean and Balkan stuffed pastries like Greek spanakopita and Turkish börek. Their golden, portable form has gained global popularity for gatherings and quick meals.

❤️ Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Flaky, buttery crust with savory, cheesy filling

  • Quick and easy, yet impressive to serve

  • Versatile for snacks, brunch, parties, or lunch-to-go

  • Easy to prepare ahead and bake fresh

🌿 Health Benefits

  • Spinach adds vitamins A, C, K, iron, and fiber

  • Ricotta and cheeses provide calcium and protein

  • Baked, not fried—lighter on fat and calories for a pastry

  • Portable: no utensils needed, great for picnics

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

  • Serve alongside tzatziki, marinara, or a lemon-herb dip

  • Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables

  • Ideal for brunch, tea-time snacks, or appetizer boards

❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Wet filling: Ensure spinach is well drained to prevent soggy pastry

  • Unsealed edges: Proper sealing prevents leaks and puffing issues

  • Overfilled pastries: Keep filling moderate for even baking and structure

  • Skipping egg wash: Without it, pastries lose glossy, golden finish

🥂 Pairing Recommendations

  • Drinks: Sauvignon Blanc, sparkling rosé, or mint lemonade

  • Sides: Greek salad, pickled veggies, or grilled peppers

  • Sauces: Yogurt-dill, lemon-garlic aioli, or spicy harissa

👩‍🍳 Cooking Tips

  • For extra flavor, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil before adding spinach

  • Chill pastry briefly if becomes too soft while shaping

  • Allow pastries to cool before stacking to keep crisp edges

  • Use silicone mat for even browning and easy cleanup

🍯 Similar Recipes to Try

  • Spinach & Feta Spanakopita Triangles

  • Mushroom & Gruyère Puff Pastry Pockets

  • Ricotta & Herb Calzone Bites

  • Zucchini & Goat Cheese Tartlets

🔄 Variations to Try

  • Meat lovers: Add cooked sausage or shredded chicken to filling

  • Veggie twist: Include chopped artichoke hearts or roasted red pepper

  • Herb variations: Swap oregano/basil for dill, thyme, or rosemary

  • Gluten-free: Use gluten-free puff pastry and check cheese labels

🌾 Ingredient Spotlight

Spinach – A nutrient powerhouse, rich in iron, fiber, and antioxidants. Pairing it with creamy cheese and herbs makes a balanced, flavorful filling that is both nutritious and comforting.


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🔚 Conclusion

These spinach-stuffed pastries offer the perfect balance of flaky texture and savory goodness, ideal for any gathering or casual snack. With simple ingredients and quick prep, they elevate ordinary puff pastry into a gourmet delight — healthy, tasty, and timeless.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I freeze them?
    Yes – freeze unbaked pastries on tray, then store in airtight bag. Bake from frozen with extra 3–5 minutes.

  2. Make-ahead option?
    Assemble pastries, store covered in fridge up to overnight, then bake when needed.

  3. Dairy-free alternative?
    Use vegan ricotta and omit Parmesan for a dairy-free version.

  4. Adjust serving size easily?
    Fillings and pastry quantities can be halved or doubled without issue.

  5. Can I use puff pastry sheets with gluten-free dough?
    Yes—just thaw and handle gently to avoid breaking.

  6. How to avoid soggy bottoms?
    Bake on a rack or perforated sheet; ensure filling is well drained and pastry isn’t too thick underneath.

  7. Why didn’t pastry puff up?
    Make sure oven is fully preheated and egg wash is applied; low oven temp prevents puffing.

  8. Can I use fresh herbs?
    Absolutely — parsley, dill, or chives enhance flavor beautifully.

  9. Storage tips for leftovers?
    Keep in airtight container in fridge; reheat in oven for 5–7 minutes to restore crispness.

  10. Do they reheat well?
    Yes — warm in oven (170 °C for 5 min) or toaster oven for best texture; microwave may soften pastry.

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