Spinach Stuffed Pastry

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🥬 Spinach Stuffed Pastry

📝 Introduction

Spinach stuffed pastry is a warm, flaky, and savory delight packed with seasoned spinach and cheese — wrapped in crisp golden pastry. It’s a versatile recipe that fits every occasion: brunch, parties, lunchboxes, or cozy dinners. Popular in many cultures, from Mediterranean spanakopita to Middle Eastern fatayer, it’s comforting, flavorful, and easy to make at home.

🌍 Origin and Cultural Significance

Spinach-stuffed pastries have deep roots across several cuisines:

  • Greek cuisine features the iconic spanakopita, made with spinach, feta, and layers of phyllo dough.
  • Middle Eastern cuisine offers fatayer, soft dough stuffed with spinach, onion, lemon, and sumac.
  • Turkish börek also highlights spinach-cheese fillings in flaky yufka or phyllo.

These pastries often represent comfort food, hospitality, and celebration, especially during holidays, Ramadan, Easter, and family gatherings. They highlight how humble greens and dough can be turned into something truly special.

🧂 Ingredients & Quantities (Makes about 12 pastries)

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 300g (10 oz) fresh spinach (or 200g frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
  • 100g (3.5 oz) feta cheese, crumbled
  • 50g (1.75 oz) ricotta cheese (or cream cheese – optional for creaminess)
  • 1 egg, lightly beaten
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, but traditional in Greek-style versions)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill or parsley, chopped
  • 1 sheet of puff pastry or 6–8 sheets of phyllo dough
  • 1 egg yolk + 1 tsp water for egg wash
  • Sesame or nigella seeds for topping (optional)

🌟 Optional Additions

  • Chili flakes or black pepper for a spicy kick
  • Grated mozzarella or cheddar for extra gooeyness
  • Toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch
  • Sumac for a tangy Middle Eastern twist
  • Lemon zest for added brightness

✅ Tips for Success

  • Drain the spinach well: Whether fresh or frozen, squeeze out all moisture to avoid soggy pastries.
  • Cool the filling before stuffing to prevent steam from softening the dough.
  • Keep phyllo covered: If using phyllo dough, keep unused sheets under a damp towel to prevent drying.
  • Chill the pastries for 10 minutes before baking for a flakier texture.
  • Bake until golden brown: Don’t underbake – color equals flavor and crispiness!

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Prepare the filling:
    • Heat olive oil in a skillet. Sauté the chopped onion until soft, about 5 minutes.
    • Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
    • Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted (or just heat through if using frozen).
    • Remove from heat. Let cool slightly.
  2. Mix the filling:
    • In a bowl, combine the cooled spinach mixture with feta, ricotta, egg, herbs, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
  3. Assemble the pastries:
    • If using puff pastry, cut into squares or circles. Place a spoonful of filling in the center, fold, and seal edges with a fork.
    • If using phyllo, layer 2–3 sheets, brushing each with oil or butter. Add filling and fold into triangles or rolls.
  4. Brush and top:
    • Place pastries on a baking sheet. Brush with egg wash. Sprinkle with sesame or nigella seeds if desired.
  5. Bake:
    • Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and crisp.

✨ Description

These spinach stuffed pastries are flaky on the outside, creamy and savory inside. The warm spinach and cheese filling contrasts beautifully with the crisp, buttery layers. Each bite delivers comfort, flavor, and a touch of elegance. They’re perfect served warm or at room temperature and make a great addition to holiday spreads or cozy dinners.

🔍 Nutritional Information (Per pastry, approx.)

Actual values will vary based on size and pastry used (phyllo vs. puff):

  • Calories: ~180–220 kcal
  • Fat: 12–15g
  • Protein: 5–7g
  • Carbohydrates: 12–15g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sodium: ~250mg
  • Calcium: ~10% DV

To reduce calories or fat, opt for phyllo dough and use less cheese or low-fat versions.

🧡 Conclusion and Recommendation

Spinach Stuffed Pastry is a simple yet elegant dish that crosses cultural boundaries and suits all occasions. Whether you’re hosting guests, preparing lunchboxes, or adding something special to your holiday table, these pastries always hit the spot. They’re adaptable, freezer-friendly, and endlessly delicious.

Serve with a side salad, some yogurt dip, or a cup of tea — and you’ve got a complete, satisfying meal or snack.

🌿 Embracing Healthful Indulgence

Indulgence can be nourishing when made with wholesome ingredients like spinach, herbs, and olive oil. These pastries offer protein, calcium, and greens in a portable form. By baking (not frying), using fresh herbs, and balancing cheese with vegetables, this dish provides comfort and nutrition.

Enjoy your pastry — not with guilt, but with gratitude. ✨

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