Spinach Puffs

Spinach puffs are a delightful appetizer that can elevate any gathering. These bite-sized treats are filled with a savory mixture of sautéed onion, garlic, and spinach combined with creamy cheese, all encased in flaky puff pastry. Perfect for occasions like parties or family gatherings, these spinach puffs are not only easy to prepare but also impressively delicious, making them a must-try for your next event.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these spinach puffs in no time.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of spinach, garlic, cream cheese, and feta creates a mouth-watering flavor that everyone will love.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve warm or at room temperature; these puffs are great for any occasion.
• Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer: These bites are perfect for parties or family gatherings and make an excellent finger food choice.
• Nut-Free & Vegetarian: A delicious option for guests with specific dietary preferences without compromising on taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools and prepare your workspace to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Muffin tin
• Medium skillet
• Large mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Cooking spray
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin tin: This is essential for shaping the puff pastry into cups that hold the delicious filling.
• Medium skillet: Perfect for sautéing the onions and garlic to develop their rich flavors before adding them to the mix.

Ingredients

To create these scrumptious spinach puffs, gather the following ingredients:

For the Filling

• 1 tbsp. vegetable oil
• 1/3 c. onion, finely chopped
• Kosher salt
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 oz. cream cheese, softened
• 2 eggs, divided
• 1 (10-oz.) package frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed as dry as possible
• 3/4 c. crumbled feta
• 2 tbsp. fresh dill, chopped
• 2 tsp. lemon zest
• Freshly ground black pepper

For the Pastry

• Cooking spray
• All-purpose flour, for rolling puff pastry
• 1 sheet from 1 (17.3-oz) package puff pastry, thawed in the refrigerator

How to Make Spinach Puffs

Step 1: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

In a medium skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add onions and season with salt. Cook while stirring occasionally until softened for about 4 to 5 minutes. Add garlic and continue cooking until fragrant, about 30 seconds more. Remove from heat.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a large bowl, stir together cream cheese and 1 egg until well mixed. Then add the sautéed onion-garlic mixture along with spinach, feta cheese, dill, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Combine until everything is evenly incorporated.

Step 3: Prepare the Muffin Tin

Grease 9 cups of a muffin tin with cooking spray. On a lightly floured surface using a rolling pin, roll out the puff pastry sheet to create a 12” square. Cut this into 9 smaller squares that are each about 4” wide.

Step 4: Assemble the Puffs

Gently ease each puff pastry square into a greased muffin cup so that the corners hang over the sides. Spoon about 2½ tablespoons of filling into each center. Fold in the corners of the pastry to meet over the filling and pinch together securely. Refrigerate for 30 minutes or freeze for 15 minutes.

Step 5: Preheat Your Oven

While your puffs chill in the refrigerator or freezer, adjust an oven rack to center position and preheat your oven to 400° Fahrenheit.

Step 6: Brush with Egg Wash

Beat the remaining egg in a small bowl with one teaspoon of water. Brush this mixture on top of each chilled puff pastry to give them a beautiful golden color when baked.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden Brown

Bake in your preheated oven until puffed up and golden brown on the bottom—this usually takes about 25 minutes. Allow them to cool slightly before lifting them out of the muffin tin. Serve warm or at room temperature for everyone to enjoy!

How to Serve Spinach Puffs

Spinach puffs make a delightful appetizer for any occasion. They are versatile and can be paired with various sides and dips to enhance their flavor.

With Dipping Sauces

• Tzatziki: This refreshing yogurt-based sauce adds a cool contrast to the warm, savory spinach puffs.
• Garlic Aioli: Creamy with a hint of garlic, aioli is perfect for those who enjoy rich flavors.
• Chimichurri: A zesty herb sauce that brings a vibrant kick and complements the spinach nicely.

As Part of a Platter

• Cheese Board: Include an assortment of cheeses, fruits, and nuts alongside spinach puffs for a stunning presentation.
• Veggie Platter: Pair with fresh vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers for a crunchy contrast.

On Their Own

• Warm or Room Temperature: Serve these delicious bites straight from the oven or allow them to cool slightly for easy snacking at any gathering.

How to Perfect Spinach Puffs

Making perfect spinach puffs involves attention to detail in preparation. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Thawed Spinach: Drain the spinach thoroughly after thawing to avoid soggy puffs.
• Don’t Overfill: Fill pastry cups generously but avoid overfilling; this helps prevent spilling during baking.
• Chill Before Baking: Allow the assembled puffs to chill in the refrigerator or freezer before baking for better structure.
• Brush with Egg Wash: Brushing the tops with egg wash gives a beautiful golden color after baking.
• Check Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated correctly for even cooking and puffiness.

Best Side Dishes for Spinach Puffs

Serving your spinach puffs with complementary side dishes can enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette provides freshness that balances the richness of the puffs.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add texture and flavor while being easy to prepare alongside your main dish.
3. Quinoa Salad: This nutritious grain salad can include herbs, lemon juice, and chopped vegetables for a hearty side.
4. Stuffed Grape Leaves: These flavorful bites pair well with spinach puffs, adding an international flair to your meal.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs complement the soft texture of spinach puffs perfectly.
6. Hummus Platter: A variety of hummus served with pita chips or fresh veggies makes for a tasty and colorful addition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Spinach Puffs, even the smallest errors can lead to disappointing results. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the Thawing Process: Always remember to fully thaw and squeeze dry your frozen spinach. Excess moisture can make your puffs soggy.
• Overfilling the Pastry Cups: Be careful not to overfill your puff pastry cups. Leave enough space for the pastry to rise and puff up properly.
• Neglecting to Chill Before Baking: Chilling the assembled puffs is key for achieving a flaky texture. Don’t skip this step!
• Not Preheating the Oven Properly: Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking. This helps achieve that golden-brown color and crispy texture.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese is softened before mixing. Cold ingredients can result in a lumpy filling that doesn’t blend well.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Spinach Puffs in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Spinach Puffs

• Place uncooked, assembled puffs on a baking sheet and freeze until firm.
• Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, where they can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Spinach Puffs

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30 seconds each, but be aware this may make them less crispy.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Spinach Puffs?

Spinach Puffs are bite-sized appetizers made with puff pastry filled with a creamy mixture of spinach, cheese, and seasonings.

Can I customize the filling of my Spinach Puffs?

Absolutely! You can add ingredients like artichokes or replace feta with other cheeses such as ricotta or goat cheese based on your taste.

How long do Spinach Puffs remain fresh?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, Spinach Puffs last about 3 days. If frozen, they can last up to 2 months before losing quality.

What dipping sauces pair well with Spinach Puffs?

Try serving them with yogurt-based sauces or marinara for an extra flavor boost!

Final Thoughts

Spinach Puffs are an easy yet impressive appetizer that suits any occasion. Their versatility allows for customization according to personal preferences, making them perfect for gatherings or family dinners. Give these delightful treats a try—you won’t be disappointed!