- Prepare the Spinach Filling:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the chopped fresh spinach to the skillet (if using frozen spinach, make sure it is thoroughly drained). Cook until the spinach is wilted and any excess moisture has evaporated, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the skillet from heat and let the spinach mixture cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach mixture, ricotta cheese, feta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, dried dill, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Add the beaten egg to the mixture and mix thoroughly. This will help bind the filling.
- Prepare the Pastry:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheets to smooth out any creases and make them slightly larger. Cut each sheet into 4 equal squares (you should have 8 squares in total).
- Assemble the Pastries:
- Place a generous spoonful of the spinach filling in the center of each pastry square.
- Fold the pastry over the filling to form a triangle, rectangle, or your desired shape. Press the edges together to seal, and use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
- Transfer the filled pastries to the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to give them a golden, glossy finish.
- Bake:
- Bake the pastries in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are puffed and golden brown.
- Serve:
- Allow the pastries to cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Tips:
- Pastry: Make sure the puff pastry is thawed but still cold when you work with it. This makes it easier to handle and results in a flakier texture.
- Filling Variations: You can add other ingredients to the filling, such as chopped artichokes, sun-dried tomatoes, or cooked mushrooms for extra flavor.
- Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as goat cheese or mozzarella, to suit your taste preferences.
- Freezing: These pastries can be frozen before baking. Simply place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
This spinach stuffed pastry is a delightful combination of flaky puff pastry and a creamy, savory filling. It’s perfect for parties, brunches, or anytime you want a tasty and impressive dish. Enjoy!