Spinach Stuffed Pastr

by

Spinach Stuffed Pastry – A Flaky, Savory Treat You’ll Want Every Day

Spinach stuffed pastries are the perfect combination of flaky, buttery pastry and savory, herb-seasoned spinach filling. Whether served as a warm appetizer, a brunch centerpiece, or a portable snack, these pastries are deliciously crisp on the outside and filled with rich, cheesy greens on the inside. Popular around the world from Greek spanakopita to Middle Eastern fatayer, this recipe brings a versatile, crowd-pleasing option to your table.

🧾 Ingredients for Spinach Stuffed Pastry

This recipe makes 8–10 pastries, depending on the size.

For the Filling:

  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or 1½ cups thawed frozen spinach, squeezed dry)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional but adds depth)
  • ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • ¼ cup ricotta or cream cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped

For the Pastry:

  • 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed (or homemade if desired)
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • Flour, for dusting

🧈 Optional: Add a sprinkle of sesame or nigella seeds on top before baking for a beautiful finish.

👨‍🍳 How to Make Spinach Stuffed Pastry – Step by Step

1. Prepare the Filling

  • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  • Sauté onion for 3–4 minutes until translucent.
  • Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
  • Stir in chopped spinach and cook until wilted and moisture is mostly gone (about 3–5 minutes).
  • Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
  • Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  • Stir in feta, ricotta/cream cheese, and herbs until combined.

🧂 Taste your filling before stuffing — this is where all the flavor lives!

2. Roll Out the Pastry

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the puff pastry to about ⅛ inch thick.
  • Cut into squares or rectangles (roughly 4×4 inches for hand pies or larger for turnovers).

3. Assemble the Pastries

  • Place a spoonful of the spinach filling in the center of each pastry square.
  • Fold over into a triangle or rectangle and seal the edges with a fork.
  • Transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  • Brush tops with egg wash (beaten egg) for that golden finish.
  • Optional: Sprinkle with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or nigella.

4. Bake Until Golden

  • Bake in preheated oven for 18–22 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
  • Let cool for 5 minutes before serving — the filling will be hot!

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Spinach stuffed pastries are incredibly versatile. Serve them:

  • As an appetizer with tzatziki, hummus, or a yogurt-garlic dip
  • With soup or salad for a light lunch
  • On a brunch board alongside cheeses, fruits, and olives
  • As a snack — they reheat beautifully and travel well

🌿 Variations and Add-Ons

Cheese Lovers’ Twist

Add mozzarella, sharp cheddar, or goat cheese for extra flavor.

Spicy Kick

Add a pinch of chili flakes or Aleppo pepper for heat.

Meat Option

Add finely chopped cooked sausage or ground beef to the filling for a heartier version.

Vegan Version

  • Use vegan puff pastry
  • Substitute cheeses with plant-based feta and cashew cream cheese

🧊 Storage & Reheating Tips

To Store:

  • Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, sealed in an airtight container.

To Freeze:

  • Freeze unbaked or baked pastries for up to 2 months.
  • If freezing unbaked, apply egg wash right before baking, not before freezing.

To Reheat:

  • Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy.
  • Avoid microwaving — it will soften the crust.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes! Just thaw and squeeze out all excess water to prevent soggy filling.

Can I make them ahead?

Absolutely. Assemble and refrigerate pastries for up to 1 day ahead. Bake fresh for best texture.

Do I have to use puff pastry?

No. You can also use:

  • Phyllo dough (for spanakopita-style)
  • Homemade pastry dough
  • Pie crust for a denser texture

Can I air-fry these?

Yes! Air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway for even browning.

🧑‍🍳 Perfect for Every Occasion

Spinach stuffed pastry is a fantastic go-to recipe for:

  • Holiday appetizers
  • Family gatherings
  • Lunchboxes
  • Potlucks
  • Picnics
  • Vegetarian-friendly parties

With its crisp layers and savory center, this dish appeals to both kids and adults. It’s the kind of recipe that feels fancy but is secretly simple and quick.

✅ Final Thoughts: Your New Favorite Pastry Recipe

Whether you’re new to savory pastries or already a lover of Mediterranean flavors, spinach stuffed pastries will become a favorite in your kitchen. With buttery, golden pastry, a cheesy, herbed spinach filling, and endless options to tweak and customize, this recipe offers both comfort and sophistication.

Serve them hot, pair them with a dip, or enjoy them straight from the oven — one bite, and you’ll be hooked.

Leave a Comment