Spinach & Cheese Puff Pastry Parcels

Flaky layers of golden puff pastry envelop a vibrant filling of sautéed spinach, creamy ricotta, and nutty Parmesan in these elegant Spinach & Cheese Puff Pastry Parcels. Inspired by Mediterranean spanakopita and classic French chaussons, this recipe combines convenience and gourmet flair. Ready-rolled store-bought pastry cuts prep time dramatically, while a quick sauté transforms everyday spinach into a rich, herb-accented filling. Whether served as appetizers at a dinner party, a light lunch with a side salad, or part of a brunch spread, these parcels deliver restaurant-quality flavors with home-kitchen ease.

Cooking Time

• Preparation: 15 minutes (sautéing, mixing, cutting pastry)

• Assembly: 10 minutes (filling & shaping parcels)

• Baking: 20–25 minutes at 200 °C (400 °F)

• Total Time: Approximately 50 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 sheet (≈250 g) ready-rolled puff pastry, thawed

• 2 Tbsp olive oil, divided

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 250 g fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• Pinch of freshly grated nutmeg (optional)

• 120 g ricotta cheese

• 50 g grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for sprinkling

• 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)

• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

1. Preheat & Prep
   Preheat your oven to 200 °C (400 °F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or a silicone mat.

2. Sauté Aromatics
   In a large skillet, heat 1 Tbsp of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to brown.

3. Wilt the Spinach
   Add the spinach in batches, stirring until each batch wilts before adding more. Season lightly with salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Cook for 2–3 minutes until all leaves are wilted and glossy. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.

4. Drain & Chop
   Transfer the cooled spinach mixture to a colander or a clean kitchen towel. Press or squeeze out as much liquid as possible to prevent soggy parcels. Chop the drained greens roughly and return them to the bowl.

5. Make the Cheese Filling
   Stir in ricotta and Parmesan until evenly combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. The filling should be moist but not runny.

6. Prepare the Pastry
   On a lightly floured surface, unfold the thawed pastry sheet and roll it gently to smooth out folds. Cut the pastry into six equal squares (approximately 12 × 12 cm each).

7. Assemble the Parcels
   Place 2 Tbsp of filling in the center of each square. Brush the edges with beaten egg to help seal. Fold one corner over to meet the opposite corner, forming a triangle; press edges firmly or crimp with a fork. Alternatively, bring all four corners to the center and pinch to form a “purse.”

8. Egg Wash & Bake
   Transfer parcels to the prepared tray. Brush each parcel generously with the remaining beaten egg, then sprinkle with extra Parmesan. Bake for 20–25 minutes, rotating the tray halfway, until the pastry is puffed, golden, and crisp.

9. Garnish & Serve
   Let the parcels rest for 5 minutes on the tray, then transfer to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped basil or parsley, if desired. Serve warm alongside a simple green salad or a yogurt-based dip.

Nutritional Information

(Per parcel, yields 6 parcels)

• Calories: 260 kcal

• Protein: 8 g

• Carbohydrates: 20 g

• Dietary Fiber: 1 g

• Sugars: 1 g

• Fat: 16 g

• Saturated Fat: 7 g

• Sodium: 280 mg

The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe

Savory filled pastries have ancient roots across Europe and the Middle East—ranging from Greek spanakopita to French chaussons. The concept of encasing vegetables and cheese in dough dates back millennia as a way to transport and preserve food. In modern times, puff pastry parcels have soared in popularity for their elegant appearance, portability, and endless variations, becoming staples on brunch menus, cocktail parties, and social media feeds.

Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe

• Quick & Accessible: Uses store-bought ingredients for minimal prep.

• Bursting with Flavor: Garlic, onion, nutmeg, and cheeses create a layered taste experience.

• Visual Appeal: Golden triangles look professional and inviting.

• Versatile: Serve as appetizer, main course, or party finger food.

• Customizable: Adapt fillings with your favorite greens, herbs, or cheeses.

Health Benefits

Spinach delivers iron, fiber, and vitamins A and C while ricotta provides protein and calcium. Olive oil offers heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. Using minimal oil and controlling portion size keeps these indulgent parcels balanced within a nutritious diet.

Serving Suggestions

• Yogurt Dip: Combine Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and fresh herbs for a tangy sauce.

• Green Salad: Toss mixed greens with a simple vinaigrette to cut through richness.

• Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside oven-roasted peppers or zucchini.

• Soup Pairing: A bowl of tomato or butternut squash soup complements the parcels.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Wet Filling: Failing to drain spinach properly leads to soggy pastry—ensure thorough draining.

• Weak Seals: Skip the egg wash or insufficient crimping causes filling to leak.

• Overcrowded Tray: Give parcels room to puff; crowded trays yield uneven baking.

• Cold Pastry: Let the pastry sheet come to room temperature to avoid cracking when folding.

Pairing Recommendations

• Wines: A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc enhances herb and cheese notes.

• Beers: Light Pilsner or wheat beer cleanses the palate between bites.

• Non-Alcoholic: Sparkling water with cucumber slices offers a refreshing contrast.

Cooking Tips

• Uniform Slices: Chop spinach and onion evenly for consistent texture.

• Egg Wash: Brush both sides of each parcel lightly to achieve even browning.

• Baking Sheet: Use a rimmed sheet to catch any drips and prevent smoke.

• Make-Ahead: Assemble parcels, freeze on a tray until firm, then transfer to a container; bake from frozen, adding five minutes.

Similar Recipes to Try

• Mushroom & Goat Cheese Puff Pastry Tarts

• Spanakopita Triangles with Phyllo

• Bacon & Cheddar Pastry Twists

• Tomato & Feta Savory Hand Pies

Variations to Try

• Add Protein: Stir in crumbled sausage or diced grilled chicken.

• Switch Greens: Use kale, Swiss chard, or collard greens in place of spinach.

• Cheese Swap: Replace ricotta with goat cheese or mix mozzarella with Parmesan.

• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or chopped chili for heat.

• Vegan Option: Use tofu-ricotta blend and vegan puff pastry; substitute egg wash with dairy-free milk.

Ingredient Spotlight

Ricotta Cheese
Ricotta’s mild sweetness and creamy texture make it ideal for balancing robust spinach and flavorful seasonings. Its high protein and moisture content bind the filling, while imparting luscious mouthfeel.

Conclusion

Spinach & Cheese Puff Pastry Parcels fuse simplicity and sophistication, transforming humble greens and cheese into a crowd-pleasing treat. With easy assembly, endless variations, and striking presentation, they’re destined to become a staple for gatherings and weeknight dinners alike. Enjoy the harmony of crispy pastry and savory filling—one golden parcel at a time.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen spinach?
   Yes—thaw, drain thoroughly, and squeeze out excess liquid before mixing.

2. How far in advance can I prep?
   Assemble parcels and refrigerate for up to 6 hours; bake from cold, adding 2–3 minutes.

3. What if my pastry tears?
   Patch with extra pastry strips or brush with water and press gently to seal.

4. Is nutmeg necessary?
   It adds warmth and depth but can be omitted for a purer spinach flavor.

5. Can I brush with milk instead of egg?
   Yes—a milk wash yields a less glossy but still golden finish.

6. How do I reheat leftovers?
   Warm in a 180 °C oven for 5–7 minutes to restore crispness.

7. Why are my parcels soggy?
   Ensure spinach is well drained and avoid overfilling.

8. Can I bake on a pizza stone?
   Yes—preheat the stone and bake parcels directly on it for extra crispness.

9. What spices pair well?
   Thyme, oregano, or fresh dill complement the filling nicely.

10. Can I freeze baked parcels?
    Freeze cooled parcels in airtight containers; reheat from frozen in the oven.