Spinach Puffs

Spinach Puffs Recipe - Vegan Food from Greece

Region / culture: Greece | Servings: 12 |

Vegan diet

Introduction

Spinach puffs are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or snack that are perfect for any occasion. These flaky pastries are filled with a savory mixture of spinach, onions, and garlic, making them a flavorful and satisfying treat.

History

Spinach puffs have been a popular dish in many cultures for centuries. The combination of spinach and pastry has been enjoyed in various forms, from Greek spanakopita to Indian samosas. This recipe puts a unique twist on the classic dish, making it a versatile and tasty option for any meal.

Ingredients

1 box of frozen chopped spinach
1 chopped onion
1 tsp of salt
Freshly ground black pepper
1-2 cloves of crushed garlic
olive oil for sautéing
1 box of puff pastry*

How to prepare

In a medium skillet, sauté onions until they start to brown. Add thawed spinach, salt, pepper, and garlic. Mix well and heat for a minute or two. Turn off the heat and set the spinach mixture aside to cool.
Roll out the puff pastry into a rectangle that is 0.25" thick. Using a pizza slicer, cut it into squares. Put the cooled filling into the center of each square and fold them into shapes.
Bake at 400°F for 30 minutes.

Variations

Add feta cheese to the spinach mixture for a tangy twist.
Use different herbs and spices, such as dill or red pepper flakes, to customize the flavor of the filling.
Substitute the puff pastry with phyllo dough for a lighter and flakier crust.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to thoroughly thaw the frozen spinach before using it in the recipe to ensure that it cooks evenly.

- Be sure to sauté the onions until they are caramelized to bring out their natural sweetness and flavor.

- When folding the puff pastry squares, be sure to seal the edges tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve spinach puffs as an appetizer at a party or as a side dish with a salad or soup for a light meal.

Cooking Techniques

Sauté the onions until caramelized for added depth of flavor.

- Be sure to seal the edges of the puff pastry tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use fresh spinach instead of frozen for a brighter and fresher flavor.

- Substitute shallots for the onions for a milder taste.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the spinach mixture and assemble the puffs ahead of time, then bake them just before serving for a fresh and hot appetizer.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the spinach puffs on a platter with a garnish of fresh herbs or lemon wedges for a beautiful and appetizing display.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve spinach puffs with a crisp white wine or a light and refreshing cocktail for a perfect pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover spinach puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of spinach puffs contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of spinach puffs contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of spinach puffs contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of spinach puffs contains approximately 5 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Spinach is a rich source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains wheat (in the puff pastry) and may contain traces of dairy and soy.

Summary

Spinach puffs are a tasty and nutritious snack that are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. They are a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while enjoying a delicious treat.

Summary

Spinach puffs are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. With a flaky pastry crust and a savory spinach filling, these puffs are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a joyful one. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret at her cozy little cottage by the lake. Margaret was known for her delicious homemade treats, and on that particular day, she had a plate of golden-brown spinach puffs sitting on her kitchen table.

I watched as she mixed the ingredients together with such ease and grace, her hands moving swiftly as she added a pinch of this and a dash of that. The aroma of fresh spinach and melted cheese filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

As Margaret pulled the tray of spinach puffs out of the oven, the enticing smell grew even stronger. I couldn't wait to taste one of these delectable treats that she had crafted with such care and skill.

With a smile, Margaret handed me a warm spinach puff, and I took a bite. The flavors exploded in my mouth - the creamy cheese, the tender spinach, the flaky pastry - it was a culinary masterpiece. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make these spinach puffs myself.

Margaret saw the excitement in my eyes and laughed, saying, "Oh, dear, it's not as difficult as it looks. I'll teach you the recipe, and soon you'll be making these spinach puffs for all your friends and family."

And so, Margaret became my mentor, guiding me through the process of making spinach puffs from scratch. She showed me how to sauté the spinach until it was wilted and tender, how to mix in the cheese and seasonings just right, and how to fold the pastry dough into perfect little pockets of goodness.

I practiced diligently, following Margaret's instructions to the letter. I made batch after batch of spinach puffs, tweaking the recipe here and there until I had perfected it to my liking. And each time I made them, I couldn't help but think of Margaret and the special bond we shared over our love of cooking.

Over the years, I continued to hone my skills in the kitchen, experimenting with different fillings and flavors for my spinach puffs. I added sundried tomatoes, feta cheese, and a hint of garlic for a Mediterranean twist. I tried mixing in some crispy bacon and cheddar for a savory and indulgent variation. And each time I served these spinach puffs to my family and friends, they raved about how delicious they were.

As I grew older, I passed on the recipe for my spinach puffs to my own children and grandchildren, sharing with them the joy and satisfaction that comes from creating something delicious with your own two hands. And now, whenever I make a batch of spinach puffs, I think back to that wonderful summer day at Margaret's cottage and smile, grateful for the friendship and the recipe that she shared with me.

So, if you ever find yourself craving a savory and satisfying treat, give my spinach puffs a try. I promise you won't be disappointed. And who knows, maybe one day you'll pass on the recipe to someone special in your life, just like Margaret did for me. Cooking is not just about feeding the body, but also about nourishing the soul and creating lasting memories with those you love. Bon appétit!