Spinach Stuffed Pastry

### **How to Make Spinach Stuffed Pastry:**

#### **1. Preheat the Oven & Prepare Baking Sheet**
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.

#### **2. Cook the Spinach**
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the spinach wilts and releases moisture. Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat and let the spinach cool slightly. If there’s any excess moisture, squeeze it out using a paper towel or cheesecloth to prevent soggy pastries.

#### **3. Prepare the Filling**
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach and garlic mixture with ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, and season with salt, pepper, and any optional herbs or spices. Stir everything together until it forms a creamy, cohesive mixture.

#### **4. Assemble the Pastry**
Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Cut the pastry into squares or rectangles, depending on the size of your desired pastries (about 4×4 inches is a good size for individual servings).

Spoon a generous amount of the spinach filling onto the center of each pastry square. Be careful not to overfill, as you’ll need to seal the edges.

#### **5. Seal and Brush**
Fold the pastry over the filling to create a pocket or triangle shape. Press the edges together firmly to seal, using a fork to crimp the edges if desired. Brush the top of each pastry with the beaten egg for a beautiful golden finish.

#### **6. Bake**
Place the pastries on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to ensure they don’t over-brown.

#### **7. Serve and Enjoy**
Once baked, allow the spinach stuffed pastries to cool slightly before serving. These can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, and they pair wonderfully with a side of marinara sauce, sour cream, or a light salad.

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### **Tips for Perfect Spinach Stuffed Pastry:**

– **Use fresh spinach**: While frozen spinach can be used, fresh spinach gives a more vibrant flavor and texture. Just be sure to cook and drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
– **Customize the filling**: Feel free to add other ingredients to the filling. Feta cheese, ricotta, and pine nuts make excellent additions that enhance the flavor and texture.
– **Make it ahead**: These pastries can be assembled in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze them and bake directly from frozen when needed, adjusting the baking time as necessary.
– **Dipping sauces**: These spinach stuffed pastries are perfect for dipping! Try pairing them with a tangy marinara sauce, creamy ranch dressing, or a zesty tzatziki.

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### **Perfect for Any Occasion:**

This **Spinach Stuffed Pastry** is versatile and can be served for breakfast, brunch, or as a savory snack at parties. It’s a great way to get your greens while indulging in a flaky, cheesy treat. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or need a quick lunch, this recipe will impress your family and guests alike.

Bake up these golden, flaky delights and savor the comforting flavors of spinach, cheese, and buttery pastry in every bite.