Ricotta and Spinach Pastry Puffs Recipe
Ricotta and Spinach Pastry Puffs
Ingredients
- 500g (1 lb) fresh spinach, washed and trimmed
- 250g (9 oz) ricotta cheese
- 50g (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 500g (1 lb) puff pastry sheets, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Kitchen Equipment Required
- Mixing Bowls
- Whisk
- Baking Sheet
- Pastry Brush
- Kite-Shaped Cookie Cutter (optional)
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Knife or Pastry Cutter
Cooking Time
Total estimated time: 1 hour
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Spinach
In a pan over medium heat, sauté the 500g (1 lb) fresh spinach until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool. Once cooled, squeeze out any excess moisture and chop finely.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the 250g (9 oz) ricotta cheese, 50g (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan cheese, chopped spinach, one large egg, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
Step 4: Assemble the Pastry Puffs
Roll out the 500g (1 lb) puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of 0.5 cm (1/4 inch). Cut into squares approximately 10×10 cm (4×4 inches). Spoon a tablespoon of the spinach-ricotta mixture in the center of each square. Fold the squares over the filling to form triangles, pressing the edges with a fork to seal.
Step 5: Egg Wash and Bake
Place the prepared pastry puffs on the lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with beaten egg using a pastry brush. This will help them achieve a beautiful golden brown color during baking.
Step 6: Baking
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.
Step 7: Cooling and Serving
Once done, remove the pastry puffs from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve warm as an appetizer, side dish, or savory snack.
Conclusion
Congratulations on crafting these scrumptious Ricotta and Spinach Pastry Puffs! These golden, flaky parcels are filled with an exquisite melange of spinach and cheese that melts in your mouth. Their simplicity and elegance make them a beloved staple, whether enjoyed casually or as part of a festive spread. Don’t be surprised if they disappear from your table in no time; they’re truly irresistible!
