Introduction
Spinach and Cheese Puff Pastry Squares are a perfect combination of flaky golden pastry and rich, cheesy filling. Ideal as an appetizer, snack, or light meal, they’re simple to make yet taste gourmet. These savory bites are a hit at gatherings and are delicious both warm and at room temperature.
🧀
Ingredients Quantity
For about 12 squares:
- 1 sheet puff pastry (about 250 g), thawed
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 200 g (about 2 cups) fresh spinach (or 100 g frozen, thawed and drained)
- 100 g (1 cup) feta cheese, crumbled
- 50 g (½ cup) mozzarella or ricotta (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A pinch of nutmeg (optional)
🍳
Instructions
- Prepare the filling:
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the onion until translucent, then add garlic. Stir in spinach until wilted (or warm through if using frozen). Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Let it cool slightly. - Add cheeses:
In a bowl, combine the spinach mixture with feta and mozzarella (or ricotta). Mix well. - Prepare the pastry:
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut into 12 equal squares. - Assemble:
Place a spoonful of spinach-cheese filling in the center of each square. Fold over corners to form a rough envelope or leave open as a “tartlet.” Brush edges with beaten egg. - Bake:
Arrange on a parchment-lined baking tray and bake for 15–20 minutes, until puffed and golden brown. - Cool slightly before serving.
🌍
Origin and Cultural Significance
These pastries draw inspiration from Greek spanakopita and French feuilletés, blending Mediterranean flavors with the buttery finesse of French puff pastry. They showcase how global cuisines merge beautifully through simplicity and good ingredients.
✨
Description
Crispy layers of pastry give way to a warm, creamy spinach filling, creating a delightful texture contrast — airy outside, rich inside. Each bite bursts with cheesy flavor and subtle garlic aroma.
🌿
Optional Additions
- Add cooked bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms for a heartier version.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds or grated Parmesan on top before baking.
- Use puff pastry shells or phyllo dough for a lighter texture.
💡
Tips for Success
- Make sure the spinach is well-drained to avoid soggy pastry.
- Don’t overfill — a teaspoon per square is perfect.
- Bake until deep golden; underbaked pastry will collapse.
- These reheat beautifully in an oven or air fryer.
🧮
Nutritional Information (per square, approx.)
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 5 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 1 g
🏁
Conclusion
Spinach and Cheese Puff Pastry Squares bring elegance and comfort to your table. Their buttery crispness and cheesy goodness make them a favorite for both everyday snacking and festive platters.
🌸
Recommendation & Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Enjoy them fresh from the oven with a yogurt-garlic dip or a tangy tomato relish. These bites show that indulgence can still be wholesome — a perfect blend of greens, dairy, and golden pastry delight.