Mediterranean Addictive Spinach Stuffed Pastry
These Mediterranean-inspired spinach stuffed pastries are incredibly addictive. Featuring a blend of spinach, feta, and herbs, all wrapped in flaky puff pastry, they offer a delightful burst of flavor perfect for any gathering.
INGREDIENTS:
1 package puff pastry (2 sheets), thawed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
10 oz (280g) fresh spinach, chopped (or 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried dill (or 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped)
1/2 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Sesame seeds or nigella seeds (optional, for topping)
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Prepare the Filling:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the chopped spinach, salt, black pepper, nutmeg, oregano, and dill. Cook until the spinach is wilted (if using fresh) and most of the moisture has evaporated. If using frozen spinach, ensure it is well-drained before adding.
Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
In a large bowl, combine the spinach mixture with ricotta and feta cheese. Mix well.
2. Prepare the Pastry:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface.
Cut each sheet into 6 equal squares (for a total of 12 squares).
3. Assemble the Pastries:
Place a generous spoonful of the spinach and cheese filling in the center of each square.
Fold the pastry over the filling to form a triangle, pressing the edges together to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges.
Transfer the pastries to the prepared baking sheet.
Brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds or nigella seeds, if desired.
4. Bake the Pastries:
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown and puffed up.
Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.
Tips:
Make sure to thaw the puff pastry according to package instructions to make it easier to work with.
For a variation, you can add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or pine nuts to the filling for extra Mediterranean flavor.
These pastries can be made ahead of time and reheated in the oven before serving.
Enjoy these Mediterranean addictive spinach stuffed pastries, perfect as appetizers, snacks, or even a light meal!