Chef Ed Recipe – Spinach & Cheese Pastry Spirals
Golden, flaky pastry rolls filled with spinach, Emmentaler, and ricotta—cut into perfect cheesy pinwheels for any occasion.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 22 minutes
Total Time: 42 minutes
Servings: 12–14 spirals
Ingredients: (Makes about 12–14 spirals)
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 1 cup fresh spinach (lightly sautéed and chopped)
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Emmentaler cheese
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for warmth)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
- Flour for rolling
Instructions:
- Prepare the Filling:
Heat olive oil in a skillet. Add spinach and sauté until just wilted. Remove from heat, cool slightly, and squeeze out excess moisture. Chop finely. - Mix Cheeses & Seasoning:
In a bowl, combine chopped spinach, ricotta, Emmentaler, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Stir until fully mixed. - Roll Out the Pastry:
Lightly flour a clean surface. Roll out the puff pastry into a 12×10 inch rectangle if needed. - Spread the Filling:
Evenly spread the spinach-cheese mixture across the entire surface of the pastry. - Roll It Up:
Starting from one long side, roll the pastry into a tight log. Chill the log in the freezer for 10–15 minutes (for easier slicing). - Slice and Prep:
Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 1 1/2-inch slices. Place each slice cut-side down on a parchment-lined baking tray. - Egg Wash:
Beat the egg and brush the tops of each spiral for a glossy finish. - Bake Time:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake spirals for 18–22 minutes or until golden brown and puffed. - Cool & Serve:
Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Chef Ed Tips:
- Add sun-dried tomatoes or sautéed garlic for extra depth.
- These freeze well—bake from frozen at 400°F until golden.
- Great as party appetizers or a savory breakfast side.
References:
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. (n.d.). Cheese and Health.
https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/cheese/ - U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). FoodData Central. (n.d.). Ricotta cheese, Emmentaler, spinach nutritional values.
https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/ - The Kitchn. (n.d.). Tips for working with puff pastry.
https://www.thekitchn.com/how-to-bake-with-puff-pastry-221388