Description
Delightful Parmesan and Spinach Cheese Twists featuring flaky puff pastry filled with a flavorful mixture of sautéed spinach, garlic, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses. These golden-brown twists are brushed with an egg wash for a beautiful finish and optionally topped with sesame or poppy seeds, making them perfect as an appetizer, snack, or party treat.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 100 g (3.5 oz) fresh spinach, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for warmth)
- 80 g (¾ cup) grated Parmesan cheese
- 100 g (1 cup) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 sheet puff pastry (about 250 g), thawed if frozen
- 1 egg, lightly beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon milk or cream (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon sesame or poppy seeds (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter or heat olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add the chopped spinach and cook for 2–3 minutes until wilted. Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg if using. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.
- Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Unroll the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. If it feels too soft, refrigerate it for 5–10 minutes to firm it up before continuing.
- Spread the cooled spinach mixture evenly over half of the puff pastry sheet. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella evenly over the spinach layer. Fold the pastry sheet in half to cover the filling and gently press the edges to seal.
- Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the pastry into strips about 1.5–2 cm wide. Carefully twist each strip several times to create spiral twists. Place them spaced apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- Beat the egg with the milk or cream to make an egg wash. Brush this mixture over each twist to ensure a shiny and golden finish. Sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds on top if desired.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the pastry twists are puffed and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the twists cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm or at room temperature as a delicious appetizer or snack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian