The aroma of sautéed onions and garlic always seems to transport me straight to a bustling Mediterranean kitchen. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Mediterranean Addictive Spinach Stuffed Pastries, the perfect way to enjoy homemade comfort food while impressing your loved ones. These delightful pastries, featuring flaky puff pastry and a cheesy, herb-infused spinach filling, are not only a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, but they’re also freezer-friendly, making them ideal for meal prep. Whether you’re serving them as a savory snack, an appetizer at your next gathering, or a tempting brunch option, they promise to deliver smiles all around. Ready to dive into a fusion of flavors that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen? Let’s get baking! Why Are These Pastries So Irresistible? Comforting, homemade goodness: These Mediterranean Addictive Spinach Stuffed Pastries deliver the warm, cozy feeling of homemade treats, perfect for satisfying those cravings. Fresh and Flavorful: The blend of creamy ricotta and tangy feta, paired with aromatic herbs, creates a delightful filling that’s bursting with Mediterranean flair. Versatile and Adaptable: You can easily customize the filling with proteins like sautéed mushrooms or lentils, or even try a vegan twist. Freezer-Friendly: Perfect for meal prep—store them in the freezer and simply bake when you need a quick, hearty snack. Impressive Yet Simple: They may look gourmet, but the straightforward process ensures that even novice chefs can succeed. Enjoy them alongside a refreshing salad or with a dollop of tzatziki for a complete meal! Mediterranean Addictive Spinach Stuffed Pastry Ingredients For the Pastry Puff Pastry – Use two sheets, thawed, for a crispy and flaky structure. For the Filling Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing the onion, it adds richness and flavor. Onion – Finely chop for even cooking and a savory base. Garlic – Minced garlic infuses the filling with aromatic goodness. Fresh Spinach – The star of the filling, packed with flavor; you can substitute with drained frozen spinach. Salt – Enhances the filling’s overall flavor, making each bite delicious. Black Pepper – Adds depth and a touch of heat to the filling. Ground Nutmeg – Complements the spinach with warmth and complexity. Dried Oregano – Brings that classic Mediterranean taste; fresh oregano can be a great substitute. Dried Dill – Contributes a unique herbal note; feel free to switch with fresh dill if you have it on hand. Ricotta Cheese – Adds creaminess and body to the filling. Feta Cheese – Offers a tangy flavor and extra creaminess, making the filling irresistible. For Finishing Touches Egg (beaten) – Use as an egg wash for a golden, glossy finish. Sesame/Nigella Seeds (optional) – Sprinkle on top for added flavor and delightful texture. These Mediterranean Addictive Spinach Stuffed Pastry ingredients will guide you to create a dish that’s not only breathtakingly delicious but also perfect for any occasion! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mediterranean Addictive Spinach Stuffed Pastries Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add 1 chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring until it becomes translucent. Next, stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional minute until fragrant, filling your kitchen with a delicious aroma. Step 2: Cook the Spinach Filling Add 6 cups of fresh chopped spinach to the skillet along with a pinch of salt, pepper, ¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1 teaspoon of dried dill. Continue to cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring until the spinach is wilted. Remove the skillet from heat and let the mixture cool slightly for easier handling. Step 3: Combine the Cheeses In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled spinach mixture with 1 cup of ricotta cheese and ½ cup of crumbled feta cheese. Stir well until combined, ensuring that the filling is creamy and evenly mixed. This rich spinach filling is the heart of your Mediterranean Addictive Spinach Stuffed Pastries, so take your time to blend it well. Step 4: Prepare the Puff Pastry Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. On a clean surface, roll out 2 sheets of thawed puff pastry to a light thickness. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the pastry into 12 equal squares, ensuring they’re big enough to hold a generous spoonful of filling. Step 5: Assemble the Pastries Place a tablespoon of the spinach filling in the center of each pastry square. Fold each square diagonally to form triangles and press the edges tightly together. Use a fork to crimp the edges, sealing in all the deliciousness of the Mediterranean Addictive Spinach Stuffed Pastries. This will prevent any leaks while baking. Step 6: Brush and Add Seeds In a small bowl, beat one egg to create an egg wash. Gently brush the tops of each pastry triangle with the egg wash for a beautiful golden color. If desired, sprinkle sesame or nigella seeds on top for added flavor and texture, enhancing the visual appeal of your pastries. Step 7: Bake to Perfection Transfer the assembled pastries onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they have enough space between them for proper puffing. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are puffed, golden brown, and irresistibly crispy. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes for the perfect golden touch. Step 8: Cool and Serve Once baked, remove the Mediterranean Addictive Spinach Stuffed Pastries from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes. This allows the pastry to set perfectly. Serve warm as a delightful snack or appetizer, and watch your family and friends enjoy every bite! Make Ahead Options These Mediterranean Addictive Spinach Stuffed Pastries are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can easily prepare the filling up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can assemble the pastries and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. To maintain quality, ensure the pastries are tightly sealed to prevent drying out. When ready to enjoy, simply brush with egg wash and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. This way, you’ll have delicious, freshly baked pastries with minimal effort, just in time for your meal! Mediterranean Addictive Spinach Stuffed Pastry Variations Feel free to explore these delightful twists on the classic Mediterranean Addictive Spinach Stuffed Pastries! Vegan Version: Swap in vegan puff pastry and use dairy-free cheeses for the filling. Don’t forget to skip the egg wash. Protein-Packed: Add sautéed mushrooms or cooked lentils to the filling for an extra boost of nutrition that pairs beautifully with the spinach. Spice it Up: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the filling for a spicy kick that will tantalize your taste buds. Herbly Fresh: Experiment with fresh herbs like mint or parsley instead of dill for a refreshing flavor profile that complements the richness of the cheese. Zesty Lemon: Incorporate some lemon zest into the filling for a burst of brightness that enhances the rich flavors of the cheeses. Nutty Crunch: Add some toasted pine nuts or walnuts to the filling for a pleasant crunch and a nutty flavor that rounds out the filling beautifully. Cheesy Goodness: Use a blend of cheeses such as mozzarella or gouda for a different flavor twist; the gooeyness will take your pastries to the next level. Sweet Surprise: Try adding some chopped sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a sweet, tangy contrast that complements the savory spinach fare. Enjoy customizing these pastries to your heart’s content! For more delicious ways to incorporate spinach, check out Mushroom Spinach Stuffed or whip up a batch of Mediterranean Quesadillas Spinach. The possibilities are endless! Tips for the Best Mediterranean Addictive Spinach Stuffed Pastries Dry the Spinach: Make sure to thoroughly drain the cooked spinach to prevent your pastries from becoming soggy. Excess moisture is a common mistake! Keep the Pastry Cold: Work with cold puff pastry for the flakiest results. If it gets warm, pop it back in the fridge for a few minutes to chill. Seal Carefully: Ensure the edges of your pastries are tightly sealed to keep the delicious filling inside during baking. A good crimping with a fork helps! Egg Wash for Shine: Don’t skip the egg wash on top—it gives your Mediterranean Addictive Spinach Stuffed Pastries that beautiful golden color and shiny finish. Freezing Tips: For optimal freezer-friendly snacks, freeze the baked pastries individually. When you’re ready to eat, just pop them in the oven for a quick reheat rather than using a microwave. Storage Tips for Mediterranean Addictive Spinach Stuffed Pastries Fridge: Store any leftover Mediterranean Addictive Spinach Stuffed Pastries in an airtight container for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Freezer: Wrap individual baked pastries tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months; when ready to enjoy, bake from frozen, adding an extra 5-7 minutes to the cooking time. Reheating: For the best texture, reheat pastries in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy; avoid microwaving as it may make them soggy. What to Serve with Mediterranean Addictive Spinach Stuffed Pastries These delightful pastries are perfect for creating a well-rounded meal experience, inviting warmth and flavor to your table. Crisp Garden Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the rich pastries beautifully, adding a refreshing crunch. Tzatziki Sauce: Cool and creamy, this yogurt-based sauce elevates the flavors of the pastries and adds a delicious tang with every bite. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant bring in a smoky element that balances the creaminess of the spinach filling. Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl: A vibrant quinoa salad mixed with herbs, olives, and lemon zest provides a hearty base and pairs well with the flaky textures. Warm Pita Bread: Soft, warm pita is perfect for scooping up any leftover tzatziki or sharing bites of pastries, offering a lovely dipping option. Herbal Tea: A hot cup of mint tea enhances the Mediterranean experience, providing a cozy beverage to balance the flavors of the meal. For an unforgettable dining experience, don’t forget to serve these pastries alongside your favorite accompaniments! Mediterranean Addictive Spinach Stuffed Pastries Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right spinach for the filling? Absolutely! For the freshest flavor, select vibrant green spinach with no dark spots or wilting. If using frozen spinach, ensure it’s fully thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture. How should I store leftover pastries? Very good question! Store any leftover Mediterranean Addictive Spinach Stuffed Pastries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To retain their delightful crunch, I recommend placing them in a single layer, if possible. Can I freeze these pastries? How do I do that? Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap each baked pastry tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C), adding an additional 5-7 minutes to the baking time, until they are heated through and golden. What should I do if the pastries are soggy after baking? If you find that your Mediterranean Addictive Spinach Stuffed Pastries are soggy, it’s likely due to excess moisture in the filling. Ensure that the spinach is thoroughly drained after cooking, and you may also want to try adding a little breadcrumbs to the filling next time, which can help absorb moisture. Are these pastries suitable for those with dietary restrictions? Definitely! These pastries can be made vegan by using vegan puff pastry and dairy-free cheese alternatives. Just be sure to skip the egg wash. Additionally, if you or someone you’re serving has allergies, check the labels on the puff pastry and any cheese you choose to use, as they can contain common allergens like dairy or gluten. Mediterranean Addictive Spinach Stuffed Pastry Magic Discover the irresistible Mediterranean Addictive Spinach Stuffed Pastry, a flavorful blend of spinach, cheese, and herbs wrapped in flaky pastry. Perfect for any occasion! Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsTotal Time 55 minutes mins Servings: 12 pastriesCourse: AppetizerCuisine: MediterraneanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pastry2 sheets Puff Pastry thawedFor the Filling2 tablespoons Olive Oil for sautéing1 Onion finely chopped2 cloves Garlic minced6 cups Fresh Spinach or drained frozen spinach1 teaspoon Salt1 teaspoon Black Pepper1/4 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg1 teaspoon Dried Oregano or fresh oregano1 teaspoon Dried Dill or fresh dill1 cup Ricotta Cheese1/2 cup Feta Cheese crumbledFor Finishing Touches1 Egg beatenSesame/Nigella Seeds optional for topping Equipment skilletMixing bowlBaking SheetParchment Paperfork Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsIn a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once shimmers, add 1 chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.Add 6 cups of fresh chopped spinach along with a pinch of salt, pepper, 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1 teaspoon of dried dill. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled spinach mixture with 1 cup of ricotta cheese and 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese. Stir until creamy and well mixed.Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out 2 sheets of puff pastry to a light thickness and cut into 12 equal squares.Place a tablespoon of filling in the center of each square. Fold each square diagonally to form triangles and press edges tightly. Use a fork to crimp edges.Beat one egg to create an egg wash. Brush the tops with the egg wash and sprinkle seeds on top if desired.Bake for 20-25 minutes, until puffed, golden brown, and crispy. Watch closely in the last few minutes for the perfect finish.Cool on a wire rack for a few minutes and serve warm. Nutrition Serving: 1pastryCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 6gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 230mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg NotesEnsure spinach is well-drained before mixing. Freeze individually for optimal storage and reheat directly from freezer. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
