Irresistible Savory Spinach Puffs: A Flavorful Appetizer for Any Occasion
Elevate your appetizer game with these delectable Savory Spinach Puffs. Bursting with the rich flavors of spinach, feta cheese, and Parmesan, encased in flaky puff pastry, these bite-sized delights are sure to impress your guests and tantalize their taste buds. Whether served as an elegant hors d’oeuvre at a cocktail party or enjoyed as a savory snack for a cozy night in, these spinach puffs are guaranteed to be a hit. Let’s delve into the recipe and discover how to create these irresistible treats!
Ingredients:
- 1 package (17.3 ounces) puff pastry sheets, thawed
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg, lightly beaten, for egg wash
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
- Prepare Spinach Mixture: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Add chopped spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes more. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Combine Filling Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled spinach mixture with crumbled feta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and softened cream cheese. Season with salt and black pepper, mixing until well combined.
- Roll Out Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheets into a large rectangle. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the pastry into squares, approximately 3×3 inches in size.
- Fill Pastry Squares: Place a spoonful of the spinach and cheese mixture in the center of each pastry square. Fold the corners of the pastry over the filling, forming a triangle shape. Press the edges to seal, using a fork to crimp if desired.
- Brush with Egg Wash: Lightly beat the egg in a small bowl. Brush the tops of the assembled spinach puffs with the egg wash, which will give them a golden-brown finish when baked.
- Bake: Place the filled spinach puffs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each puff to allow for expansion. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and puffed.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the spinach puffs from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese or chopped fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the delicious flavors!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add Protein: For added protein, mix in cooked and crumbled bacon or diced cooked chicken into the spinach and cheese mixture before filling the pastry squares.
- Make Vegetarian: Omit the bacon and chicken to keep these spinach puffs vegetarian-friendly. You can also add extra veggies such as diced bell peppers or mushrooms for additional flavor and texture.
- Go Mediterranean: Add a Mediterranean twist by incorporating chopped sun-dried tomatoes and Kalamata olives into the spinach and cheese mixture.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto-Friendly: To make keto-friendly Savory Spinach Puffs, substitute the puff pastry with a keto-friendly alternative made from almond flour or coconut flour. Use full-fat cream cheese and ensure the other ingredients are low in carbohydrates.
- Low-Carb: For a lower-carb version, reduce the amount of puff pastry used and increase the proportion of spinach and cheese filling. You can also use low-carb cheese options such as mozzarella or goat cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh? A: Yes, you can use frozen spinach in this recipe. Thaw and drain the spinach thoroughly before using, and make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture to prevent the filling from becoming too wet.
Q: Can I make these spinach puffs ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the spinach puffs ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake. Simply cover them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking as directed.
Q: Can I freeze leftover spinach puffs? A: Yes, leftover spinach puffs can be frozen for future enjoyment. Once baked, allow them to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven until heated through.
Q: Can I customize the filling with other ingredients? A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite ingredients such as diced mushrooms, caramelized onions, or shredded Swiss cheese for endless flavor possibilities.
Savory Spinach Puffs are a delightful fusion of flaky puff pastry, creamy cheeses, and vibrant spinach, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures in every bite. Whether served as an appetizer for a gathering or enjoyed as a snack for a cozy night in, these irresistible puffs are sure to please even the most discerning palates. With their versatile nature and options for keto and low-carb adaptations, Savory Spinach Puffs are a must-have addition to your recipe repertoire. Try making them at home and delight in the deliciousness of these savory treats