Crispy Spinach and Cheese Turnovers

Step 2: Assemble the Turnovers

1. Prepare the puff pastry: Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. If you’re using store-bought puff pastry, it should already be pre-rolled. Cut each sheet into squares or rectangles, depending on the size of turnovers you want to make. A typical size would be around 4 inches by 4 inches.
2. Fill the turnovers: Spoon a generous amount of the spinach and cheese filling onto the center of each pastry square. Be careful not to overfill, as it might cause the pastry to tear or spill out during baking.
3. Seal the edges: Fold the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or rectangle. Press the edges together firmly with your fingers or a fork to seal them shut. This will prevent any filling from leaking out while baking.

Step 3: Bake the Turnovers

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Egg wash: Brush the tops of the turnovers with the beaten egg to give them a shiny, golden finish once baked.
3. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to ensure they don’t overbake.
4. Cool and serve: Allow the turnovers to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. These turnovers are best enjoyed warm when the cheese is melty and the pastry is at its crispiest.

Tips for the Best Crispy Spinach and Cheese Turnovers

• Use fresh spinach: While frozen spinach can be used in a pinch, fresh spinach gives the best flavor and texture for these turnovers. Be sure to remove as much excess water as possible if using frozen spinach to avoid soggy filling.
• Add some spice: For a little kick, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the spinach and cheese mixture. This will give your turnovers a subtle heat that contrasts nicely with the creamy filling.
• Try different cheeses: While ricotta and mozzarella are classic choices, feel free to experiment with other cheeses such as feta or goat cheese for a unique twist.
• Make them ahead of time: You can prepare the turnovers in advance, store them in the fridge for a few hours, and bake them just before serving. You can also freeze the uncooked turnovers and bake them directly from the freezer (just add a few extra minutes to the baking time).

Serving Suggestions

Crispy Spinach and Cheese Turnovers are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways:

• As an appetizer: Serve them alongside a fresh salad or a dipping sauce like tzatziki or marinara for a delicious starter.
• As a snack: Perfect for mid-day munching, these turnovers are great when you want something savory but light.
• For brunch: Pair them with scrambled eggs, fresh fruit, and coffee for a complete brunch spread.
• For a light dinner: Serve them with a side of roasted vegetables or a creamy soup for a satisfying meal.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Spinach and Cheese Turnovers are an easy, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing treat that can be enjoyed in any setting. Whether you’re preparing for a family meal, a party, or simply craving a comforting snack, these turnovers will satisfy your taste buds with their crispy golden crust and rich, creamy spinach filling. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a dish that tastes gourmet without spending hours in the kitchen.

Give these turnovers a try and let the combination of spinach and cheese elevate your next meal or snack into something special!