Spinach Stuffed Pastry

Ingredients

For the Pastry:

• 1 package (2 sheets) puff pastry, thawed (store-bought or homemade)

For the Filling:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 10 oz (300g) fresh spinach, washed and chopped (or 10 oz frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
   • Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted (if using fresh) or heated through (if using frozen), about 3-4 minutes. Stir occasionally.
   • Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
   • Once cooled, transfer the spinach mixture to a large bowl. Add the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
3. Assemble the Pastries:
   • On a lightly floured surface, roll out one sheet of puff pastry to smooth any creases.
   • Cut the pastry into squares or rectangles, depending on your preferred size (about 4 inches per side is a good size).
   • Place a spoonful of the spinach filling in the center of each square.
   • Fold the pastry over to form a triangle or rectangle, pressing the edges to seal. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
   • Repeat with the second sheet of puff pastry and the remaining filling.
4. Prepare for Baking:
   • Place the filled pastries on the prepared baking sheet.
   • Brush the tops with the beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.
5. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown and puffed.
6. Serve:
   • Allow the pastries to cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Serving Suggestions

These Spinach Stuffed Pastries are perfect for a light lunch, an appetizer, or a snack. They pair well with a simple side salad or a dipping sauce such as tzatziki or marinara. Enjoy the crispy, flaky pastry filled with a creamy and savory spinach mixture for a delightful treat!

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