Spinach Stuffed Pastry

### **Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Filling:**
– Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until soft and fragrant.
– Add the fresh spinach and cook, stirring occasionally, until wilted. If using frozen spinach, make sure it is thoroughly thawed and squeezed of excess moisture before adding it to the skillet.
– Remove the skillet from the heat and let the spinach mixture cool for a few minutes.
– Once cooled, transfer the spinach mixture to a mixing bowl. Add the crumbled feta cheese, ricotta cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano (if using). Mix everything together until well combined.

2. **Prepare the Pastry:**
– Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
– Unroll the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. If using phyllo dough, lay down one sheet, brush it lightly with olive oil or melted butter, then layer another sheet on top. Repeat this process until you have about 4-5 layers of phyllo dough.
– Cut the pastry into squares or rectangles, depending on the size of the individual pastries you want to make.

3. **Assemble the Pastry:**
– Spoon a generous amount of the spinach and cheese filling onto the center of each pastry square.
– Fold the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or rectangle, pressing the edges to seal. If desired, use a fork to crimp the edges.
– If you like a golden finish, lightly beat the egg and brush it over the top of each pastry.

4. **Bake the Pastries:**
– Place the prepared pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown and puffed up.
– Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes

before serving.

### **Serving Suggestions:**

Spinach stuffed pastries are delicious on their own, but they can also be paired with a variety of sides or dips, such as:

– A fresh side salad with lemon vinaigrette
– Tzatziki or yogurt-based dipping sauce
– Tomato soup or a creamy vegetable soup
– A squeeze of fresh lemon for added zing

### **Storage and Freezing:**

If you have leftover spinach stuffed pastries, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

To freeze, place the uncooked pastries on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes or until golden and crispy.

## Conclusion

**Spinach Stuffed Pastry** is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is both versatile and satisfying. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or light meal, this pastry offers a delicious combination of savory spinach, creamy cheese, and flaky pastry. With its rich history and widespread popularity in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, it’s no wonder this dish continues to be a favorite among food lovers worldwide.

By making it at home, you can experiment with different variations and fillings, tailoring it to your personal taste and dietary preferences. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself to a warm, fresh batch of spinach stuffed pastries that are sure to delight your taste buds!