Spinach and Cheese Puff Pastry Squares

📋 Description:

Golden, flaky puff pastry squares are filled with a creamy spinach and cheese mixture that’s rich, savory, and comforting. These are perfect as appetizers, snacks, or a light meal. They’re easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress at any gathering!

🍽️ Ingredients for Spinach and Cheese Puff Pastry Squares

• 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed

• 1 cup cooked spinach (fresh or frozen, well-drained and chopped)

• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese

• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

• 1 egg (for filling)

• 1 egg (for egg wash)

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• Optional: pinch of nutmeg or red chili flakes

🔪 Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:

   • Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.

2. Prepare Filling:

   • In a bowl, combine spinach, ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, minced garlic, 1 beaten egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Add nutmeg or chili flakes if using.

3. Prepare Pastry Squares:

   • Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface.

   • Cut into 9 equal squares (or 6 for larger portions).

4. Fill and Seal:

   • Place a spoonful of spinach-cheese filling in the center of each square.

   • Fold over to form triangles or keep them square-shaped and cover with another square.

   • Press edges with a fork to seal.

5. Egg Wash:

   • Beat the second egg and brush over the tops of the pastry for golden color.

6. Bake:

   • Bake for 18–22 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.

7. Serve:

   • Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature.

📝 Notes:

• If using frozen spinach, ensure all water is squeezed out to avoid soggy filling.

• Puff pastry should remain cold while working to get the best puff.

• You can substitute ricotta with cream cheese or cottage cheese for variation.

💡 Tips:

• Add chopped mushrooms, caramelized onions, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.

• Serve with a side of marinara sauce or a yogurt-based dip.

• Make ahead and refrigerate unbaked filled pastries for up to 24 hours.

• These freeze well — bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) until golden.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Servings:

• Makes 6 to 9 pastry squares depending on cut size.

• Serves 3–4 people as a snack or appetizer.

🥗 Nutritional Info (per serving – approx. 1 pastry square out of 9):

• Calories: ~180–220 kcal

• Protein: ~6g

• Carbohydrates: ~14g

• Fat: ~13g

• Fiber: ~1g

• Sugar: ~1g
  (Note: values vary based on exact ingredients and portion size.)

🌟 Benefits:

• Great source of calcium and iron from spinach and cheese.

• A balanced snack with protein and carbs.

• A tasty way to sneak leafy greens into kids’ diets.

❓Q&A:

Q: Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
A: Yes! Sauté it first to remove moisture, then chop and cool before mixing into the filling.

Q: Can these be made vegan?
A: Use vegan puff pastry, tofu ricotta or vegan cheese, and omit the egg or use plant-based egg wash.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in oven or air fryer for best texture.

Q: Can I make them sweet instead of savory?
A: Absolutely! Swap the filling with cream cheese and jam or apple-cinnamon for a dessert version.