Spinach Stuffed Pastry: A Delightful Treat for Any Occasion

Instructions:

1. Prepare the dough:

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. Add the cold, cubed butter to the bowl. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to blend the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough comes together. Avoid overworking the dough.
4. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving a flaky crust.

2. Make the spinach filling:

1. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and sauté the spinach until wilted (if using fresh spinach). Allow it to cool, then squeeze out any excess moisture.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, nutmeg (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until well incorporated.
3. Add a beaten egg to the mixture and stir to bind the filling together.

3. Assemble the pastries:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about ⅛-inch thickness.
3. Cut the dough into squares or circles, depending on your preferred shape.
4. Place a spoonful of the spinach filling in the center of each dough piece. Be careful not to overfill.
5. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or half-moon shape. Seal the edges by pressing them with a fork.

4. Add the finishing touches:

1. Place the assembled pastries on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
2. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to create a golden crust during baking.
3. Sprinkle sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top for added flavor and texture.

5. Bake the pastries:

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown and puffed.
2. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Tips for Success:

• Use cold ingredients for the dough: Cold butter and ice water ensure a flaky pastry.
• Don’t skip the egg wash: This step not only adds color but also helps the pastries crisp up.
• Drain the spinach well: Excess moisture can make the pastry soggy. Press or wring out the spinach thoroughly.

Variations:

• Add feta cheese: Replace half of the ricotta with crumbled feta for a tangy twist.
• Include herbs: Fresh dill, parsley, or basil can enhance the filling’s flavor.
• Try puff pastry: If short on time, use store-bought puff pastry for a quicker version.
• Add protein: Mix in cooked and crumbled sausage or shredded chicken for a heartier option.

Serving Suggestions:

Spinach stuffed pastries are delicious on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a bowl of soup. They can also be served with dips such as tzatziki, marinara sauce, or a creamy garlic aioli.

Conclusion:

Spinach stuffed pastries are an easy and flavorful recipe that can be customized to suit your taste. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a comforting snack, these pastries are sure to impress. Try this recipe today and enjoy the perfect balance of flaky crust and savory spinach filling!