Spinach puffs are one of those delightful recipes that can easily steal the spotlight at any gathering. With their golden, flaky pastry and creamy filling, they’re perfect for an appetizer or a tasty snack. Making spinach puffs can feel like a kitchen adventure, and chatting about cooking them is almost as fun as enjoying them! Imagine that first bite—warm, savory goodness bursting with flavors of fresh spinach and rich cheese, all wrapped in a flaky crust. Whether you’re hosting a party or just treating yourself, this recipe is a fantastic way to showcase your cooking skills, even if you’re a beginner. Plus, they’re nutritious, making them a great choice for those who want to keep things healthy while indulging in comfort food. Ready to roll your sleeves up? Let’s get started—these spinach puffs are waiting for you!
Why This Recipe Works
There’s something magical about the combination of fresh spinach, creamy ricotta, and flaky puff pastry. This trio works so well together, creating a perfectly balanced dish that’s hard to resist. When you sauté garlic and add it to the mix, it infuses the filling with a rich, savory flavor that elevates each bite of the spinach puffs. Plus, baking them until they’re golden gives that satisfying crunch that will leave everyone wanting more.
Why You’ll Love This Spinach Puffs
These spinach puffs are a dream in the kitchen because they’re quick and easy to prepare. It’s a recipe that anyone can enjoy, from seasoned cooks to those just starting. They’re wonderfully versatile, too! Whether you want to serve them as a fancy appetizer, a go-to snack, or part of a main course, you can do it all. And let’s not forget how health-conscious they are—packed with nutritious spinach and protein-rich cheese, they make snacking feel guilt-free.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry (250 g)
- 7 oz baby spinach (200 g)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 7 oz ricotta cheese (200 g)
- 2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 pinch black pepper
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
Preparing Your Spinach Puffs
Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats up, line a baking tray with parchment paper to make the cleanup easy.
Sauté the Garlic
Next, take a pan and set it over medium heat. Add the olive oil, and once it’s hot, toss in the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 2 minutes or until it becomes soft and fragrant. This step will ensure that the garlic flavor really pops in your filling!
Add Spinach to the Pan
Once the garlic is ready, you can add in the baby spinach. Season it with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Sauté until the spinach is fully wilted. It will shrink quite a bit, so don’t be surprised! After that, remove it from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
Prepare the Puff Pastry
While the spinach mixture is cooling, it’s time to prep the puff pastry. Cut the sheet into either 6 large squares or 12 smaller ones, based on how big you want your spinach puffs to be. Then, place the squares on the prepared baking tray.
Make the Filling
Now, grab a mixing bowl and combine the cooled spinach mixture with ricotta cheese, grated parmesan, and one egg. Stir everything together until it’s well-blended. Don’t forget to season with another pinch of salt and pepper for extra flavor!
Assemble the Spinach Puffs
When the filling is ready, it’s time to assemble your spinach puffs. Divide the mixture evenly among the puff pastry squares. Fold two opposite edges of each square over the filling and press down to seal tightly. This step is crucial—it keeps all that delicious filling inside!
Brush and Sprinkle
To give your spinach puffs that beautiful golden top, brush the tops with the beaten egg yolk. Then, sprinkle sesame seeds evenly over each puff. This not only adds a nice crunch but also makes them look appealing.
Bake to Perfection
Now, it’s time to bake! Place the tray in your preheated oven and let them bake for 25 to 35 minutes, or until the spinach puffs are golden brown and nicely puffed up. The aroma will be irresistible!
Serving Suggestions
Spinach puffs are best served warm, making them a fantastic appetizer at parties or gatherings. You could even pair them with a light salad for a wholesome lunch. Feeling peckish? Enjoy them as a delightful snack with your favorite dip!
Tips for Success
To make the most of your spinach puffs, ensure the spinach mixture has cooled before adding the egg. This will prevent cooking it prematurely. Also, for the crispiest pastry, avoid overfilling those puff pastry squares. Lastly, don’t hesitate to experiment with herbs and spices to suit your taste!
Variations
Want to switch things up? You can substitute ricotta with feta cheese for a unique flavor twist. Adding chopped sun-dried tomatoes or artichokes would also provide extra texture and taste. For those looking for a healthier option, using whole wheat puff pastry is a great idea!
Storage Tips
If you happen to have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven to restore that delightful crispiness.
Pairing Ideas
Pair your spinach puffs with a tangy dipping sauce, such as tzatziki or garlic aioli. If you enjoy wine, a crisp white will complement the flavors beautifully. For a comforting meal, serve alongside warm, crusty bread.
FAQs
1. Can I make spinach puffs in advance?
Yes! You can prepare and assemble them a few hours ahead and store them in the refrigerator before baking.
2. What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
Cottage cheese or cream cheese works as a lovely alternative.
3. Can I freeze spinach puffs?
Absolutely! Freeze them before baking. When you’re ready to eat, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
4. Are spinach puffs healthy?
For sure! They’re packed with nutrients from spinach and protein from cheese, making them a healthy snack option.
5. How do I ensure my puff pastry is flaky?
Keep the pastry cold and handle it as little as possible before baking. This keeps it light and flaky.
Spinach puffs are a wonderful fusion of crispy, flaky pastry and savory filling. They’re perfect for any occasion! Whether you’re cooking for guests or treating yourself, this simple yet exquisite recipe showcases the beauty of fresh ingredients. Happy cooking!
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Spinach Puffs
These Spinach Puffs are a delightful treat, featuring a flaky pastry filled with a creamy mixture of spinach and cheeses, making them a perfect snack or appetizer.
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 puffs 1x
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry (250 g)
- 7 oz baby spinach (200 g)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 7 oz ricotta cheese (200 g)
- 2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 pinch black pepper
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Sauté minced garlic in olive oil for 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add baby spinach, season, and sauté until wilted, then cool.
- Cut puff pastry into squares and place on the prepared baking tray.
- Combine cooled spinach, ricotta, parmesan, and one egg in a bowl.
- Divide filling among the pastry squares, fold and seal.
- Brush with egg yolk and sprinkle sesame seeds on top.
- Bake for 25 to 35 minutes until golden brown.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
Ensure the spinach mixture cools before adding the egg to avoid cooking it.
Don’t overfill the pastry squares for the best results.
Experiment with different herbs and cheeses for unique flavors.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 9
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Unsaturated Fat: 5
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 13
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 4
- Cholesterol: 40
