Description
This Feta and Spinach Stuffed Puff Pastry is a delightful appetizer or snack featuring crispy, golden puff pastry filled with a creamy, tangy mixture of fresh spinach, feta, ricotta, and flavorful seasonings. Easy to prepare using store-bought puff pastry, it delivers an elegant yet simple dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Puff Pastry & Egg Wash
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg + 1 tbsp water (for egg wash)
- Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional topping)
Filling
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh spinach (or 1 cup frozen, thawed and well drained)
- ¾ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup ricotta cheese
- 1 egg (for filling)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Prepare the Filling: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted (skip cooking time if using thawed frozen spinach). Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Squeeze out excess moisture from the spinach to prevent soggy pastry. In a bowl, mix the spinach, crumbled feta, ricotta cheese, 1 egg, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg until well combined.
- Assemble: Roll out the thawed puff pastry slightly to smooth out seams. Spoon the filling evenly down the center of the pastry sheet or divide the pastry into squares for hand pies. Fold the pastry over the filling and seal the edges firmly using a fork to prevent leakage during baking.
- Egg Wash: Brush the entire pastry surface with the egg wash made from 1 egg and 1 tablespoon water. This will give the pastry a beautiful golden color and shine. If desired, sprinkle sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top for added texture and flavor.
- Bake: Place the pastry on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 18–25 minutes, or until the pastry is deeply golden and puffed up. Remove from oven and allow to cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Ensure spinach is thoroughly drained to avoid soggy pastry.
- Keep puff pastry cold before baking to achieve the best puff and crispness.
- For crispier bottoms, bake on the lower oven rack.
- Serve warm with tzatziki or marinara sauce.
- Pair with a fresh Greek salad for a complete meal.
- Add a squeeze of lemon before serving for a bright, fresh flavor.
