Spinach Stuffed Pastry

Introduction

There’s something truly special about a warm, flaky pastry filled with a rich, creamy filling. Whenever I make these Spinach Stuffed Pastries, my family gathers around the kitchen, drawn in by the enticing aroma of garlic and baked goodness. The first bite is always met with smiles, as the combination of fresh spinach, ricotta, and Parmesan enveloped in golden puff pastry is simply irresistible. This recipe has become a staple in our household, perfect for brunch, a light lunch, or even as an appetizer for gatherings. Everyone loves these savory bites, and they’re surprisingly easy to make!

Ingredients

• Puff Pastry: 2 sheets, thawed
• Fresh Spinach: 2 cups, chopped
• Ricotta Cheese: 1 cup
• Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, grated
• Egg: 1, beaten (for egg wash)
• Garlic Powder: 1 tsp
• Salt and Pepper: to taste
• Olive Oil: 1 tbsp

Instructions

Preheat Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the Filling

2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
5. In a medium bowl, combine the cooked spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth and creamy.

Assemble the Pastries

6. Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface.
7. Cut each sheet into 4 squares (you should have 8 squares total).
8. Place a spoonful of the spinach and cheese mixture in the center of each square.
9. Fold the pastry over to form a rectangle or triangle and press the edges with a fork to seal.
10. Transfer the pastries to the prepared baking sheet.

Apply Egg Wash

11. Brush the tops of the pastries with the beaten egg for a golden finish.

Bake

12. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastries are puffed and golden brown.

Serve

13. Let the pastries cool slightly before serving.
14. Enjoy these Spinach Stuffed Pastries warm or at room temperature!

Nutrition Facts

• Serving Size: 1 pastry
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 260mg
• Fat: 13g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 8

How to Serve

• Serve warm as an appetizer or snack.
• Pair with a side salad for a light meal.
• Drizzle with balsamic reduction for an added flavor twist.
• Offer with a dipping sauce, such as marinara or ranch.

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Spinach: While frozen spinach can be used, fresh spinach gives the best flavor and texture.
2. Customize the Cheese: Feel free to substitute or add cheeses like feta or mozzarella for different flavor profiles.
3. Spice It Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
4. Make Ahead: Prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
5. Perfect Seals: Ensure the edges of the pastry are well sealed to prevent any filling from leaking during baking.

Recipe Variations

• Mushroom Spinach Pastry: Add sautéed mushrooms for a heartier filling.
• Mediterranean Twist: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes and olives for a Mediterranean flair.
• Breakfast Pastries: Add scrambled eggs to the filling for a delicious breakfast option.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a light lemon vinaigrette salad.
• Pair with a chilled glass of white wine for a classy touch.
• Use as a filling for wraps or sandwiches.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Unbaked pastries can be frozen for up to 2 months. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Storage: Store baked pastries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

• Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture.

1. How can I make these pastries gluten-free?

• Use gluten-free puff pastry and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

1. Can I make the filling ahead of time?

• Absolutely! The filling can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge.

1. What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?

• Cream cheese or cottage cheese can be used as alternatives.

1. Can I bake these pastries at a lower temperature?

• Yes, but you may need to adjust the baking time accordingly.

1. How do I prevent the pastry from getting soggy?

• Make sure to drain any excess moisture from the spinach and avoid overfilling.

1. What dipping sauces pair well with these pastries?

• Marinara, ranch, or a yogurt-based sauce work wonderfully.

1. Can I add meat to the filling?

• Yes, cooked and crumbled sausage or bacon can be added for extra flavor.

1. How long does it take to bake from frozen?

• Bake from frozen at the same temperature for an additional 5-10 minutes.

1. Are these pastries suitable for a party?
   • Yes, they make excellent finger food for gatherings!

Conclusion

These Spinach Stuffed Pastries are not just delicious; they’re also versatile and easy to prepare. Whether for a cozy family dinner, a gathering with friends, or a simple snack, they’re sure to impress. With the creamy filling and flaky crust, each bite is a delightful experience. Plus, with the ability to customize the filling to your liking, you can make them your own. Give this recipe a try, and watch your family and friends rave about these tasty treats!

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