Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flaky and Golden: The puff pastry bakes to a crisp, golden exterior, providing a delightful contrast to the creamy filling.
- Flavorful Filling: A harmonious blend of spinach, ricotta, and Parmesan cheeses, seasoned with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Versatile: Ideal for various occasions, from casual snacks to elegant appetizers.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these pastries come together quickly.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted, approximately 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Assemble the Pastries:
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheets.
- Cut each sheet into 4 squares, yielding 8 squares in total.
- Place a spoonful of the spinach and cheese mixture in the center of each square.
- Fold the pastry over to form a rectangle or triangle and press the edges with a fork to seal.
- Transfer the pastries to the prepared baking sheet.
- Apply Egg Wash: Brush the tops of the pastries with the beaten egg to achieve a golden finish.
- Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastries are puffed and golden brown.
- Serve: Allow the pastries to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Add-ins: Incorporate chopped onions, garlic, or herbs like parsley for added flavor.
- Cheese Choices: Substitute ricotta with feta or goat cheese for a different taste.
- Spice Level: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a spicy kick.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Unbaked pastries can be frozen on a baking sheet, then stored in a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.
FAQs
1. Can I use phyllo dough instead of puff pastry?
Yes, phyllo dough can be used, but the texture will be different—crispier and less flaky.
2. How do I prevent the pastries from becoming soggy?
Ensure the spinach is well-drained after cooking to remove excess moisture.
3. Can I make these pastries ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.
4. Are these pastries suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, they are vegetarian-friendly.
5. Can I bake these pastries from frozen?
Yes, bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Conclusion
Cheese and Spinach Stuffed Pastry offers a delightful combination of flaky pastry and a savory filling, making it a versatile addition to any meal or gathering. With easy preparation and room for customization, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
For more detailed instructions and additional tips, visit the original recipe at NorthEast Nosh Recipes.
Cheese and Spinach Stuffed Pastry
Cheese and Spinach Stuffed Pastry is a savory and satisfying treat that combines flaky puff pastry with a rich filling of sautéed spinach and a blend of creamy cheeses. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or light meal, these pastries are easy to prepare and sure to impress at any gathering or family meal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 pastries
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Filling: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. In a medium bowl, combine the cooked spinach with ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Assemble the Pastries: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheets. Cut each sheet into 4 squares (8 squares in total). Spoon a portion of the spinach and cheese mixture into the center of each square. Fold the pastry over to form a rectangle or triangle and press the edges with a fork to seal.
- Apply Egg Wash: Transfer the pastries to the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops with the beaten egg.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastries are golden and puffed.
- Serve: Allow the pastries to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding chopped onions, garlic, or fresh herbs like parsley to the filling.
- Ricotta can be substituted with feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
