Spinach Stuffed Pastry: A Quick & Delicious Treat for Beginners
If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly tasty snack or appetizer, Spinach Stuffed Pastry is the perfect choice. This simple yet flavorful dish is made with flaky puff pastry and a rich, cheesy spinach filling. It’s an excellent option for beginners in the kitchen and a great way to impress guests with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: With pre-made puff pastry, this recipe comes together in minutes.
- Beginner-Friendly: Requires minimal cooking skills and simple ingredients.
- Versatile: Enjoy as a snack, appetizer, or even a light meal.
- Customizable: Add different cheeses, spices, or even proteins for a unique twist.
Ingredients
To make these delicious spinach pastries, you’ll need:
For the Filling:
- 2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- ½ cup ricotta cheese (or cream cheese for extra creaminess)
- 1 egg (for binding the filling)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
For the Pastry:
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 1 egg yolk + 1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)
- Sesame or nigella seeds (optional, for topping)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine chopped spinach, feta, ricotta, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
Step 3: Roll Out the Puff Pastry
Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the puff pastry sheet. Cut it into equal squares or rectangles, depending on your preferred shape.
Step 4: Fill & Fold
Place a spoonful of the spinach mixture in the center of each piece of pastry. Fold the pastry over into a triangle or rectangle and press the edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch and extra sealing.
Step 5: Apply Egg Wash & Toppings
In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolk with a tablespoon of milk. Brush this mixture over the pastries to give them a beautiful golden-brown color when baked. If desired, sprinkle sesame or nigella seeds on top for added flavor.
Step 6: Bake
Arrange the pastries on the lined baking sheet, leaving space between them. Bake for 18-22 minutes or until golden brown and puffed up.
Step 7: Serve & Enjoy
Let the pastries cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm on their own or with a side of yogurt, hummus, or a garlic dipping sauce.