Spinach Stuffed Pastry

Spinach Stuffed Pastry

Introduction:

Spinach-stuffed pastry is a delightful and savory dish that combines the earthiness of spinach with a flaky, buttery pastry. Perfect for a light lunch, appetizer, or snack, this dish offers a satisfying balance of flavors and textures. The creamy spinach filling, often enhanced with garlic, cheese, and seasonings, is enveloped in golden-brown, crisp pastry. Whether baked in individual portions or as a larger shareable pie, these spinach-filled pastries are sure to please any crowd.

Ingredients:

• For the filling:
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 10 oz fresh spinach (or 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• For the pastry:
  • 1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought or homemade, thawed if frozen)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter (for brushing)

Spinach-stuffed pastry

Instructions:

1. Prepare the filling:
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
   • Add the fresh spinach to the skillet, cooking it down for 3-4 minutes until wilted. If using frozen spinach, make sure it’s well-drained before adding it to the pan.
   • Remove the spinach from the heat and let it cool slightly. Squeeze out any excess moisture if necessary.
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the spinach mixture with ricotta cheese, cream cheese, Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
2. Assemble the pastries:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. If using pre-rolled sheets, simply unroll them.
   • Cut the puff pastry into squares or rectangles, depending on your desired portion size (about 4-6 squares per sheet).
   • Spoon a generous amount of the spinach mixture onto the center of each pastry square.
   • Fold the pastry over the filling to create a pocket or triangle shape, pinching the edges to seal the filling inside. If desired, use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
3. Bake the pastries:
   • Place the prepared pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
   • Brush the tops of the pastries with olive oil or melted butter for a golden, crisp finish.
   • Brush each pastry with the beaten egg for a shiny, golden glaze.
   • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown and puffed.
4. Serve:
   • Allow the spinach-stuffed pastries to cool slightly before serving. These can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Conclusion:

Spinach-stuffed pastry is a versatile and indulgent dish that can be served as an appetizer, snack, or even a light main course. The flaky, buttery pastry pairs beautifully with the creamy, flavorful spinach filling, making each bite a delightful treat. Whether you’re serving them at a party, a family dinner, or just enjoying them as a cozy snack, these pastries are sure to be a hit!