These Spinach Rolls wrapped in flaky puff pastry are a treat! They are filled with fresh spinach, creamy cheese, and seasonings that make each bite yummy and satisfying.
I love making these for a quick snack or party appetizer. They disappear fast, so I usually make extra. Who can resist a warm, cheesy spinach roll? It’s like a hug in pastry form! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This flaky pastry is the star of the show! If you can’t find frozen puff pastry, you can make a quick version using bisquick dough, but the texture will differ. It’s best to keep puff pastry chilled until ready to use for the best results.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is fantastic for this recipe, but frozen chopped spinach works too! Just make sure to squeeze out all the water after thawing. For a twist, you can use kale or Swiss chard as substitutes.
Cream Cheese: Ricotta is creamy and mild, but you can swap it with cream cheese for a richer filling. If you want less dairy, consider using cashew cream or tofu for a vegan option.
Cheeses: Feta adds a lovely tang, and Parmesan provides depth. If you don’t have them, try goat cheese or cheddar. Mixing cheeses can create unique flavors!
How Do You Get the Perfect Flaky Layers in Puff Pastry?
The puff pastry is all about technique! First, be sure to keep it cold; this helps create those flaky layers. When rolling it out, don’t press down too hard—lightly stretch it to maintain the air pockets in the pastry.
- Thaw the pastry in the fridge, not at room temperature.
- Flour your surface lightly when rolling to avoid sticking.
- After rolling, a good cut into slices will help it puff up nicely while baking.
Lastly, the egg wash gives a beautiful golden color, so don’t skip it!
Spinach Rolls with Puff Pastry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 10 oz fresh spinach (or 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg (for filling mixture)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried dill or fresh dill (optional)
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe should take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 20-25 minutes to bake. So, you’re looking at roughly 40-45 minutes total! Perfect for a quick snack or gathering.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Don’t forget to line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup easy later!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté it until it’s soft and translucent, taking about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant.
3. Prepare the Spinach:
If you’re using fresh spinach, add it to the skillet now and cook until it’s wilted, which will take just a few minutes. If you opted for frozen spinach, make sure it’s completely thawed and drained before mixing it in. Once cooked, remove from heat and let it cool a bit.
4. Make the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooked spinach mixture with ricotta cheese, crumbled feta, grated Parmesan, 1 egg, and any optional dill. Season everything with salt and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are combined into a delicious filling.
5. Roll Out the Puff Pastry:
Lightly flour your countertop and roll out the puff pastry sheet into a rectangle that’s about 10×12 inches. This will be the base for your rolls!
6. Fill the Pastry:
Spread the spinach and cheese mixture evenly over the puff pastry, making sure to leave a small border around the edges to seal the roll later.
7. Form the Rolls:
Starting from one long side, roll the pastry tightly into a log shape. It’s okay if it’s a bit snug; just roll it gently to keep air pockets in the pastry.
8. Slice the Rolls:
Using a sharp knife, slice the log into pieces that are about 1 to 1.5 inches thick. Place these slices cut-side down on your prepared baking sheet.
9. Egg Wash & Garnish:
Beat the remaining egg with a bit of water to create an egg wash. Brush the tops of your rolls with this for that lovely golden finish. If you like, sprinkle some sesame seeds on top for added texture and flavor!
10. Bake:
Pop your spinach rolls into the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are puffed and golden brown. Your kitchen is going to smell amazing!
11. Serve:
Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes so you don’t burn your mouth! These rolls are delicious warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your perfect appetizer or snack!
These spinach rolls have a golden, flaky crust with a savory, cheesy spinach filling—a perfect appetizer or snack!
Can I Use Frozen Spinach for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess moisture. This prevents sogginess in your rolls and keeps the filling deliciously creamy.
Can I Make These Spinach Rolls Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare them in advance! Assemble the rolls and place them on the baking sheet. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze the uncooked rolls; just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What Cheese Alternatives Can I Use?
If you’re looking for alternatives, cream cheese can be used instead of ricotta for a richer flavor. Also, goat cheese adds a nice tang! For a dairy-free option, you can try using cashew cream or a vegan cream cheese substitute.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also reheat in the microwave, but the pastry won’t be as crispy.