November 26, 2024

Spinach Puffs

Healthy Fact of the Day

These puffs combine nutrient-rich spinach with indulgent pastry. Spinach provides iron, calcium, vitamins A and K, and fiber. To make healthier, use light cream cheese and reduced-fat feta. Consider whole wheat puff pastry if available. The garlic and onions add flavor plus beneficial compounds. While puff pastry is high in calories, the spinach filling adds significant nutrients. For a lighter version, make them smaller or use phyllo dough instead. The combination of cheeses provides calcium and protein. These make a great way to incorporate greens into an appetizer. Consider serving with yogurt-based dip instead of higher-calorie options.

Ingredients

2 sheets puff pastry, thawed
16 oz frozen spinach, thawed and drained
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely diced
2 large eggs (1 for filling, 1 for egg wash)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried dill
1/4 tsp nutmeg
Salt and black pepper to taste
Sesame seeds for topping (optional)

For serving:

Tzatziki sauce
Marinara sauce
Lemon wedges
Fresh dill sprigs

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line baking sheet with parchment.
Squeeze all moisture from thawed spinach.
Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
Mix spinach, cream cheese, feta, Parmesan, and sautéed onion mixture.
Add one beaten egg, dill, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
Cut each pastry sheet into 9 squares.
Place a spoonful of filling in center of each square.
Fold corners to center, pinching to seal.
Beat remaining egg with 1 tbsp water.
Brush puffs with egg wash and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
Bake 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Let cool 5 minutes before serving.

Bite into these Spinach Puffs and listen to the satisfying crackle of flaky pastry giving way to a creamy, cheesy center! Each golden parcel delivers the perfect balance of buttery crust and savory filling, with fresh spinach and herbs adding brightness to every bite. Whether you’re hosting a cocktail party or looking for an elegant appetizer, these puffs prove that vegetables can be downright decadent. So dust off your rolling pin, thaw that puff pastry, and get ready to create bite-sized bundles of joy that’ll disappear faster than you can say “seconds, please!”