Description
Delicate puff pastry pockets filled with a savory blend of fresh spinach, creamy ricotta, and Parmesan cheese. These golden-brown pastries make an elegant appetizer or light meal that’s surprisingly simple to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Proper preheating ensures that your pastries will rise properly and develop that beautiful golden crust.
- Prepare the Filling: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly to prevent the cheese mixture from becoming too runny. In a medium bowl, combine the cooked spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure all flavors are well incorporated.
- Assemble the Pastries: Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface to prevent sticking. Cut each sheet into 4 squares (you should have 8 squares total). Place a spoonful of the spinach and cheese mixture in the center of each square, being careful not to overfill. Fold the pastry over to form a rectangle or triangle and press the edges firmly with a fork to seal the filling inside.
- Apply Egg Wash: Transfer the assembled pastries to the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one. Brush the tops of the pastries with the beaten egg for a golden, shiny finish. This step is crucial for achieving that professional-looking golden crust.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastries are puffed and golden brown. The pastry should feel crisp to the touch and have visible layers when done.
- Serve: Let the pastries cool slightly before serving, about 5 minutes. This allows the filling to set and prevents burning your mouth. Enjoy these Spinach Stuffed Pastries warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- You can prepare the filling up to a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator.
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or red pepper flakes to the filling.
- Leftover pastries can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes.
- For a time-saving tip, use frozen spinach instead of fresh (be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture).
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pastry
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 35mg