Description
Delight in these flaky Spinach Feta Puff Pastry parcels, filled with a savory blend of sautéed spinach, garlic, onions, and a trio of creamy cheeses. Quick to prepare and perfect as an appetizer or light meal, these golden-baked pastries offer a satisfying combination of crispy pastry and rich, herby filling.
Ingredients
Filling
- 10-12 ounces chopped frozen spinach (thawed)
- 1 Tablespoon butter
- ½ medium onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 Tablespoons chopped parsley or dill
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella or parmesan cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened or at room temperature)
Puff Pastry & Finishing
- 2 sheets puff pastry
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for sprinkling)
Instructions
- Preheat and sauté onion: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Dice the onion finely and melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add garlic and spinach: Mince the garlic cloves and add them to the pan with the onions, sautéing for an additional minute until fragrant. Then stir in the thawed chopped spinach, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until the mixture has little to no excess moisture left, allowing flavors to meld.
- Combine filling ingredients: Transfer the cooked spinach mixture to a large mixing bowl. Add the chopped parsley or dill, crumbled feta, shredded mozzarella or parmesan, and softened cream cheese. Gently stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Prepare puff pastry: Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the puff pastry sheets. Cut each sheet into squares or rectangles approximately 4×6 inches in size. These will form the base for your pastry pockets.
- Assemble pastries: Place a spoonful of the spinach and cheese filling onto each puff pastry piece. Fold the puff pastry over to seal the filling inside, making either triangles or rectangles. Press the edges with a fork to secure and create a decorative edge. Optionally, cut a few slits on top or use a lattice cutter for a stylish finish.
- Bake: Place the prepared pastries on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops generously with the beaten egg to promote a golden shine during baking. If desired, sprinkle with sesame seeds for added texture and flavor. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastries are puffed up and golden brown.
Notes
- Be sure to thoroughly drain the spinach after thawing to avoid soggy pastries.
- You can substitute fresh spinach by sautéing until wilted and draining excess liquid.
- Use either mozzarella or parmesan cheese based on your flavor preference; parmesan will add a sharper taste.
- These pastries can be prepared ahead and baked when needed; just keep them refrigerated before baking.
- For a dairy-free variation, substitute cream cheese and other cheeses with plant-based alternatives.
- Serve warm as an appetizer, snack, or paired with a side salad for a light meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
