Description
This Addictive Spinach Stuffed Pastry is a Mediterranean-inspired appetizer featuring flaky puff pastry filled with a savory mixture of fresh spinach, garlic, aromatic spices, and creamy cheeses. Baked to golden perfection, these handheld pastries are perfect for entertaining or a delightful snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Pastry
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds or everything seasoning (optional)
Filling
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Sauté Garlic and Spinach: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, roughly 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Mix Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed spinach and garlic with salt, black pepper, nutmeg (if using), crumbled feta cheese, softened cream cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet and cut it into 6 equal-sized rectangles.
- Fill and Seal Pastries: Spoon an even amount of the spinach mixture onto one half of each pastry rectangle. Fold the other half over to cover the filling, then press the edges firmly with a fork to seal and prevent leakage during baking.
- Apply Egg Wash and Add Toppings: Brush the tops of the sealed pastries with the beaten egg to promote browning and shine. Sprinkle sesame seeds or everything seasoning over the top if desired for added texture and flavor.
- Bake: Place the pastries on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the baked pastries from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack before serving to allow the filling to set and avoid burns.
Notes
- Frozen spinach can be used as a substitute but ensure it is thoroughly drained to prevent sogginess.
- These pastries can be assembled in advance and refrigerated, then baked fresh just before serving to maintain crisp texture.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute the cheeses with vegan alternatives.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste, especially salt since feta and Parmesan contribute saltiness.
