Spinach and Cheese Puff Pastry Squares

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Puff Pastry

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry: Unroll the puff pastry sheet on a clean surface. Use a sharp knife to cut it into 9 equal squares (you can make larger squares if preferred).

Step 2: Make the Spinach and Cheese Filling

1. Sauté the Spinach: Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped fresh spinach and sauté for 2-3 minutes until wilted and most of the moisture has evaporated. If using frozen spinach, make sure it is thoroughly drained before adding it to the pan.
2. Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed spinach, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Puff Pastry Squares

1. Fill the Puff Pastry Squares: Place a spoonful of the spinach and cheese mixture in the center of each puff pastry square. Be careful not to overfill, as the filling may spill out during baking.
2. Fold the Squares: Fold the edges of the puff pastry over the filling, creating a pocket or turning them into a triangle shape, depending on your preference. Press the edges to seal.
3. Apply Egg Wash: Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush it over the tops of the puff pastry squares for a golden, glossy finish.

Step 4: Bake the Puff Pastry Squares

1. Bake: Place the prepared puff pastry squares on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and crispy.
2. Cool Slightly: Let the puff pastry squares cool for a couple of minutes before serving.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve Warm: Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired. Serve the spinach and cheese puff pastry squares warm, and enjoy the flaky, cheesy goodness!
2. Perfect Pairings: These are great as a standalone snack or appetizer, or you can pair them with a simple side salad or a cup of tomato soup.

Tips for the Perfect Spinach and Cheese Puff Pastry Squares:

1. Drain the Spinach Well: If using frozen spinach, make sure to squeeze out all excess moisture to prevent the filling from becoming too wet and soggy.
2. Adjust Cheese: You can mix and match cheeses for different flavor profiles. Try adding feta, goat cheese, or even a sharp cheddar for a different twist.
3. Make-Ahead: These puff pastry squares can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking. Just add the egg wash before baking.
4. Freezing Option: If you want to make a big batch, you can freeze the unbaked puff pastry squares on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a ziplock bag or airtight container for up to a month. Bake directly from the freezer for an extra 5 minutes.

Variations:

• Mushroom and Cheese: Add sautéed mushrooms to the spinach and cheese filling for an earthy flavor.
• Herb-Infused: Stir in some finely chopped herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the filling for a herby twist.
• Meat-Lover’s Puff Pastry Squares: Add cooked bacon, ham, or sausage to the spinach and cheese mixture for added richness.

Final Thoughts

These Spinach and Cheese Puff Pastry Squares are the perfect combination of crispy, cheesy, and savory. With the convenience of store-bought puff pastry and a delicious, flavorful filling, these squares are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or a side dish, they’re bound to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings for something savory and comforting! Enjoy!