These Spinach and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels are a delightful combination of creamy cheese and savory spinach, all wrapped in a flaky, golden puff pastry. Perfect for parties, snacks, or even a light meal, these pinwheels are easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests. The filling, seasoned with garlic, shallot, and a touch of nutmeg, offers a burst of flavors that pair wonderfully with the crisp pastry.
Preparation Time
- Preparation: 20 minutes
- Baking: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 box puff pastry dough
- 1 lb (450g) frozen spinach (1 box), thawed and drained
- ½ pack (4 oz or 115g) cream cheese
- 1 cup (120g) mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- 1 egg yolk
- Olive oil for cooking
Directions
- Prepare the Filling:
- Thaw and drain the frozen spinach, squeezing out any excess water.
- In a pan, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the finely chopped shallot and minced garlic until soft and fragrant.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach, sautéed shallot and garlic, cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Mix until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Prepare the Pastry:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the puff pastry dough on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle.
- Evenly spread the spinach and cheese mixture over the puff pastry dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Assemble the Pinwheels:
- Carefully roll up the dough, starting from one of the long sides, to form a log.
- Slice the log into 1-inch thick.
- Bake:
- Place the pinwheels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, beat the egg yolk with a splash of water. Brush the tops of the pinwheels with the egg wash.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the pinwheels are puffed and golden brown.
- Serve:
- Allow the pinwheels to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a marinara dipping sauce or garlic aioli.
- Pair with a fresh salad for a light meal.
- Enjoy as a snack or appetizer at parties.
- Include in a picnic basket for a savory treat on the go.
Cooking Tips
- Prevent Sogginess: Squeeze out as much water as possible from the spinach to prevent the pastry from getting soggy.
- Customization: Add ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes or feta for a Mediterranean twist.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare and freeze the pinwheels before baking for easy, fresh-baked snacks anytime.
Nutritional Benefits
- Spinach: Rich in iron, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants.
- Cheese: Provides calcium and protein.
- Puff Pastry: Offers carbohydrates for energy, with a satisfyingly crispy texture.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-Friendly: This recipe is suitable for a vegetarian diet.
- Contains Dairy and Gluten: Not suitable for those with dairy or gluten allergies without modifications.
Nutritional Facts (per pinwheel, assuming 12 pinwheels)
- Calories: ~180 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 11g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Avoid reheating in the microwave to prevent soggy pastry.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy and Quick: Using store-bought puff pastry saves time, and the filling comes together in minutes.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties, these pinwheels are a hit with both kids and adults.
- Versatile: Enjoy them warm, at room temperature, or even cold.
- Delicious Flavors: The combination of creamy cheese, spinach, and aromatic garlic is simply irresistible.
Conclusion
Spinach and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels are an easy and delicious way to elevate your snack or appetizer game. With their flaky crust and flavorful filling, they’re sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a quick snack, or simply wanting to enjoy something tasty, these pinwheels are a perfect choice. Try them out and watch them disappear in no time!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
- Yes, simply sauté fresh spinach until wilted, then squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the filling.
- Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?
- Yes, prepare and freeze them before baking. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- Can I add other ingredients to the filling?
- Absolutely! Try adding sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or feta cheese for added flavor.
- How do I prevent the puff pastry from getting soggy?
- Make sure to thoroughly drain and squeeze out excess water from the spinach.
- Can these be served cold?
- Yes, they can be served at room temperature, making them great for picnics or lunchboxes.
- What if I don’t have mozzarella cheese?
- You can use any melty cheese like cheddar, gouda, or Monterey Jack.
- Can I use phyllo dough instead of puff pastry?
- Yes, but the texture will be different. Phyllo is flakier and requires more layers.
- Can I make this recipe vegan?
- Substitute the cream cheese and mozzarella with vegan alternatives, and use a plant-based milk for the egg wash.
- How long can I store the leftover pinwheels?
- They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Can I use homemade puff pastry?
- Yes, homemade puff pastry will work wonderfully, though it may require additional preparation time.