These Spinach Puff Pastry Pockets are a delightful combination of buttery, flaky pastry filled with a creamy spinach mixture. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a light meal, they’re easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress!
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25–30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients
- 400 g frozen puff pastry (thawed)
- 300 g fresh spinach (or frozen, thawed and drained)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 100 g feta cheese, crumbled
- 50 g grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)
Directions
Prepare the Filling:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
- Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted. If using frozen spinach, cook until warmed through.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach mixture, feta cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Mix well.
Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface and cut into squares or rectangles (about 10 cm/4-inch size).
- Place a spoonful of the spinach filling in the center of each square.
Shape the Pockets:
- Fold the pastry over the filling to create a triangle or rectangle shape.
- Press the edges together to seal, using a fork to crimp the edges.
- Place the pockets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake:
- Brush the tops of the pockets with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
Serve:
- Let the pockets cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm as a snack or appetizer.
5 Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a simple side salad for a light meal.
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream or tzatziki.
- Enjoy as a side dish with soup.
- Add to a party platter with dips and other appetizers.
- Pack for a picnic or lunchbox snack.
Cooking Tips
- Ensure the puff pastry is well-thawed but still cold for easier handling.
- Avoid overfilling to prevent the pockets from bursting during baking.
- Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter for clean cuts of the pastry.
- Seal the edges tightly to keep the filling inside.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the oven to retain crispiness.
Nutritional Benefits
- Spinach: High in iron, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Feta Cheese: Adds calcium and a tangy flavor.
- Puff Pastry: Provides a buttery, flaky texture.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-friendly.
Nutritional Facts (Per Pocket – Makes 8)
- Calories: 230
- Protein: 6 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 1 g
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to prepare with store-bought puff pastry.
- Crispy, golden pastry with a creamy spinach filling.
- Perfect for any occasion – snacks, parties, or quick meals.
- Customizable with your favorite cheeses or seasonings.
Conclusion
These Spinach Puff Pastry Pockets are a delicious and versatile dish that combines flaky pastry with a flavorful spinach and cheese filling. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or light meal, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone. Try them today and savor the buttery goodness!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use fresh puff pastry? Yes, fresh puff pastry works perfectly.
- Can I use other cheeses? Yes, ricotta, mozzarella, or cheddar can be used.
- Can I freeze the pockets? Yes, freeze before baking and bake directly from frozen when needed.
- What other fillings can I use? Try adding mushrooms, cooked chicken, or sundried tomatoes.
- Can I make them vegan? Use vegan puff pastry and replace cheese with plant-based alternatives.
- What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese? Substitute with Pecorino Romano or skip it.
- How do I prevent sogginess? Ensure the spinach mixture is well-drained before filling.
- Can I make them smaller? Yes, cut the pastry into smaller squares for bite-sized snacks.
- How do I store leftovers? Store in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat in the oven.
- What can I serve with these pockets? Pair with soup, salad, or dipping sauces for a complete meal.