Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Pockets

For the Filling:

• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (you can use frozen spinach as well, just make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water)
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup ricotta cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or fresh if available)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Puff Pastry:

• 1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought or homemade if you’re feeling adventurous)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash to give a golden finish)

How to Make Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Pockets

This recipe is simple to prepare, and the result is always impressive. Here’s how you can make these delightful spinach and feta puff pastry pockets:

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

• Sauté the onions and garlic: In a medium pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
• Cook the spinach: Add the chopped spinach to the pan and cook until it wilts down (about 3-4 minutes if using fresh spinach). If you’re using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and drain any excess water beforehand. Once the spinach is cooked, season with salt, pepper, and oregano to taste.
• Combine the cheeses: Remove the pan from the heat and let the spinach mixture cool slightly. Stir in the crumbled feta, ricotta cheese (if using), and lemon zest. Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry

• Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Roll out the puff pastry: Lay out the sheet of puff pastry on a clean, flat surface. If it’s too thick, gently roll it out with a rolling pin. Cut the pastry into squares or rectangles (about 4×4 inches, depending on how large you want your pockets).

Step 3: Assemble the Pockets

• Fill the pastry squares: Spoon a generous amount of the spinach and feta filling into the center of each square.
• Fold the pastry: Carefully fold the puff pastry over the filling to create a pocket. Press down the edges to seal them tightly, making sure the filling stays inside. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch and to ensure they’re sealed properly.

Step 4: Bake the Pockets

• Egg wash: Brush each pocket with a little beaten egg to give them a golden, shiny finish when baked.
• Bake: Place the assembled pockets onto the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and crisp.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

• Once baked, remove the pockets from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These pockets can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making them ideal for parties, picnics, or meal prep.

Tips for Perfect Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Pockets

• Use fresh spinach: While frozen spinach is a great substitute, using fresh spinach gives a fresher flavor and texture. Just be sure to remove any excess water from cooked spinach to avoid a soggy filling.
• Don’t overfill: Be cautious not to overstuff the puff pastry pockets. A little filling goes a long way, and overstuffing can cause the pockets to burst open during baking.
• Make it vegetarian or add protein: If you want to make these pockets heartier, feel free to add some cooked chicken, bacon, or even pine nuts for extra texture and flavor.
• Make it ahead: These pockets can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge for a few hours before baking. You can also freeze them before baking and pop them into the oven directly from the freezer when you’re ready to eat.

Why These Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Pockets Are So Good

These pockets are everything you want in a savory pastry: flaky, warm, and full of delicious, cheesy goodness. The combination of fresh spinach and feta creates a creamy filling with just the right amount of tang, while the puff pastry adds a light, buttery crunch that perfectly complements the savory filling.

They’re ideal for any time you need a quick and tasty meal or snack, whether you’re serving them for brunch, as a light dinner, or as part of a party spread. Plus, they are easily customizable, allowing you to add different vegetables, spices, or proteins to suit your personal preferences.

Conclusion

Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Pockets are a perfect blend of savory and indulgent flavors, wrapped up in a golden, flaky shell. Quick to make, customizable, and absolutely delicious, they’re the kind of dish that you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re preparing them for a family dinner, a party, or just a quick snack, these puff pastry pockets are guaranteed to impress and satisfy. Enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite!