Appetizers & Starters > Pastries & Baked Goods > Savory Pastries > Empanadas
Spinach and Feta Empanadas
These Spinach and Feta Empanadas are a delicious and easy appetizer or snack. The flaky pastry is filled with a savory mixture of spinach, feta cheese, and herbs. They're perfect for parties or a light lunch.
Ingredients
- 2 Puff pastry sheets
- 10 oz Frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 4 oz Feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup Ricotta cheese
- 1 Egg, beaten
- 1 clove Garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp Fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tbsp Fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper
- 1 Egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Preparing the Filling
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine the thawed and squeezed dry spinach, crumbled feta cheese, ricotta cheese, beaten egg, minced garlic, chopped dill, and chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
Assembling the Empanadas
Lightly flour a clean surface. Unfold the puff pastry sheets. Using a 4-inch round cutter or a knife, cut out circles from the puff pastry. Place a spoonful of the spinach and feta filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape. Crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
Baking the Empanadas
Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the beaten egg (egg wash). This will give them a golden-brown color. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown and puffed up. Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
FAQ
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Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach. Cook it until wilted and then squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the filling. -
Can I add other cheeses to the filling?
Yes, you can add other cheeses like mozzarella or parmesan for extra flavor. Adjust the amount of feta cheese accordingly. -
Can I freeze these empanadas before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the empanadas before baking. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.