Crispy Spinach and Cheese Turnovers

These crispy spinach and cheese turnovers are a delightful and savory treat. The flaky dough encases a flavorful filling of spinach, onions, and cheese, making them perfect for a light meal, appetizer, or snack.

Preparation Time:

  • Prep Time: 45 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes – 1 hour 30 minutes

Ingredients:

  • For the Dough:
    • 5 cups (560g) Pastry Flour
    • 1 teaspoon (7g) Salt
    • 1.5 cups (350ml) Warm Water
    • 2/3 cup (60g) Melted Butter
    • 1/2 cup (100ml) Oil
  • For the Filling:
    • 2 cups (500g) Spinach, cleaned and chopped
    • 1 teaspoon (5g) Salt
    • 1/2 cup (100g) Onion, grated
    • 1 teaspoon (5g) Chili Pepper Flakes
    • 3-4 tablespoons (45-60g) Spreadable White Cheese
    • 1 cup (100g) Grated White Cheese

Directions:

  • Make the Dough:

    • In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Gradually add warm water while mixing until a dough forms.
    • Knead for 6-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
    • Cover the dough and let it rest for 15 minutes.
    • Divide the dough into 8 equal parts and let them rest for 5 minutes.
    • Roll out each part into a circle the size of a dessert plate.
    • Brush each circle with melted butter and oil. Stack them on top of each other.
    • Cover and let the stacked dough rest in a warm place for 20-25 minutes.
  • Prepare the Filling:

    • Squeeze out excess water from the chopped spinach.
    • In a bowl, combine spinach, grated onion, chili pepper flakes, spreadable white cheese, and grated white cheese. Mix well.
  • Assemble and Bake:

    • Roll out each dough circle as thinly as possible.
    • Cut each circle in half.
    • Fold each half in half again to create a triangle.
    • Add a spoonful of the spinach and cheese filling to the center of each triangle.
    • Wrap the dough around the filling, sealing the edges tightly.
    • Place the turnovers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
    • Brush the tops of the turnovers with oil.
  • Bake:

    • Bake in a preheated oven at 190°C (375°F) for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve warm as an appetizer, snack, or light meal.
  • Enjoy with a side salad or soup.
  • Great for potlucks and picnics.

Cooking Tips:

  • For extra flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder to the filling.
  • You can substitute spinach with other leafy greens like kale or chard.
  • Use your favorite type of cheese in the filling.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • Spinach is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and folate.
  • Cheese provides calcium and protein.

Dietary Information:

  • Vegetarian
  • Can be made vegan by using plant-based cheese and butter substitutes.

Nutritional Facts (per serving – approximate):

  • Calories: 250-300
  • Protein: 10-15g
  • Fat: 15-20g
  • Carbohydrates: 20-25g
  • Fiber: 2-3g

Storage:

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Easy to make with simple ingredients.
  • Delicious and satisfying.
  • Versatile and can be adapted to your liking.
  • Perfect for a quick and easy meal or snack.

Conclusion:

These crispy spinach and cheese turnovers are a delightful and flavorful treat that is sure to impress. The flaky dough combined with the savory spinach and cheese filling makes them a perfect option for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a light meal, a delicious appetizer, or a simple snack, these turnovers are sure to satisfy.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  1. Can I use frozen spinach?

    • Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Thaw it completely and squeeze out as much water as possible before using.
  2. Can I use a different type of flour?

    • You can experiment with different types of flour, such as all-purpose flour or whole wheat flour. However, the results may vary.
  3. Can I make these turnovers ahead of time?

    • Yes, you can assemble the turnovers ahead of time and freeze them unbaked. Bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
  4. Can I make these turnovers gluten-free?

    • Yes, you can make these turnovers gluten-free by using gluten-free flour.
  5. Can I add other vegetables to the filling?

    • Yes, you can add other vegetables to the filling, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or diced tomatoes.
  6. Can I bake these turnovers in a muffin tin?

    • Yes, you can bake these turnovers in a muffin tin.
  7. What can I serve these turnovers with?

    • You can serve these turnovers with a variety of dips, such as marinara sauce, pesto, or hummus.
  8. How do I reheat leftover turnovers?

    • You can reheat leftover turnovers in the oven or air fryer.
  9. Can I make these turnovers ahead of time and freeze them?

    • Yes, you can assemble the turnovers ahead of time and freeze them unbaked. Bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
  10. What if the dough is too sticky?

    • If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency.