With a delicious spinach and feta filling, these puff pastry appetizers are perfect for any occasion. They’re so easy to make and everyone will love the result. Save this recipe and get ready to impress your guests!
Ingredients
- 1 roll of puff pastry
- 420g (2 ½ cups) frozen spinach, thawed and dried
- 260g (1 cup) feta cheese, crumbled
- 2g (⅔ tsp) onion powder
- 2g (⅔ tsp) garlic powder
- A pinch of cayenne pepper
- A pinch of black pepper
- Egg wash (1 egg beaten with a splash of water)
- Sesame seeds for topping
Method
Preparing the Filling
- Thaw and Dry the Spinach: Thaw the frozen spinach completely and squeeze out any excess moisture. You can use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to press the spinach until it is dry.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried spinach, crumbled feta cheese, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Assembling the Pastry
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F).
- Prepare the Puff Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut the pastry into squares or rectangles, depending on the size of the appetizers you want to make.
- Add the Filling: Place a spoonful of the spinach and feta filling in the center of each puff pastry piece. Be careful not to overfill, as this can make it difficult to seal the pastry.
- Seal the Pastry: Fold the puff pastry over the filling to create a pocket. You can fold it into triangles, rectangles, or any shape you prefer. Press the edges with a fork to seal them well.
- Egg Wash: Brush the tops of the pastry pockets with the egg wash. This will give them a beautiful golden-brown finish when baked.
- Add Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top of each pastry pocket for added flavor and a nice crunch.
Baking
- Bake the Pastries: Place the filled and sealed pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave some space between them to allow for puffing. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown and puffed.
Serving
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the pastries from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips and Variations
- Cheese Variations: Try using different types of cheese such as ricotta, goat cheese, or cream cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Herb Additions: Add fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or mint to the filling for extra flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a bit more cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes if you like a spicier filling.
- Vegetable Additions: Add finely chopped cooked mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers to the filling for added texture and flavor.
Nutritional Information
These spinach and feta puff pastry appetizers are a delightful combination of carbs from the pastry, protein from the feta, and vitamins from the spinach. Adjust portion sizes to fit your dietary needs and preferences.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 180°C (356°F) for about 5-7 minutes to restore the crispiness.
These spinach and feta puff pastry appetizers are easy to make and absolutely delicious. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you can create a delightful appetizer perfect for any gathering.
Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Puff Pastry Appetizers
- Thoroughly Dry Spinach: Ensure the spinach is thoroughly dried to prevent a soggy filling.
- Even Filling: Distribute the filling evenly among the pastry pieces to ensure consistent flavor in each bite.
- Seal Well: Press the edges firmly with a fork to avoid the filling from oozing out during baking.
- Golden Finish: Don’t skip the egg wash – it helps achieve a beautiful golden-brown color.
Share the Delight
If you’ve enjoyed making and eating these spinach and feta puff pastry appetizers, share the recipe with your friends and family. It’s a fun and easy recipe that adds a delicious touch to any meal.
Final Thoughts
This spinach and feta puff pastry recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Enjoy making and sharing these delightful appetizers, and savor every bite. Happy cooking and see you in the next recipe!
This recipe transforms basic ingredients into a gourmet appetizer with minimal effort. Enjoy the rich flavors and satisfying texture of these spinach and feta puff pastry treats, a delightful addition to any meal. Happy cooking!
