Description
Parmesan and Spinach Cheese Twists are flaky, cheesy pastries featuring a crispy puff pastry exterior with a savory, flavorful spinach and cheese filling. These golden, twisted snacks are perfect for appetizers, parties, or a delicious snack with coffee or wine, offering a perfect balance between rich cheeses and fresh spinach with hints of garlic and nutmeg. Ready in under 30 minutes, they’re an impressive yet easy-to-make treat that can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Ingredients
Scale
Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry (about 250 g), thawed if frozen
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
Filling
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 100 g (3.5 oz) fresh spinach, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 80 g (¾ cup) grated Parmesan cheese
- 100 g (1 cup) shredded mozzarella cheese
Finishing
- 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
- Prepare the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter or heat olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach and cook for 2–3 minutes until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Prepare the Pastry: Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. If it feels too soft, refrigerate for 5–10 minutes to firm it up before using.
- Assemble the Twists: Spread the cooled spinach mixture evenly over half of the puff pastry sheet. Sprinkle Parmesan and mozzarella cheese evenly over the spinach. Fold the pastry in half to cover the filling and gently press to seal the edges.
- Cut and Twist: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the pastry into strips about 1.5–2 cm wide. Carefully twist each strip several times and place them spaced apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- Add the Finishing Touch: Beat the egg with milk or cream and brush the mixture over each twist for a shiny, golden finish. Sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds on top if desired.
- Bake: Bake the twists in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes or until they are puffed and golden brown.
- Serve: Allow twists to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Keep puff pastry cold before baking to ensure proper puffing.
- Use parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Do not overload the filling to avoid soggy pastry.
- Remove excess moisture from spinach by squeezing if watery.
- These twists can be stored at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerated for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
- Reheat in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5–7 minutes to restore crispness.
- For freezing, freeze unbaked twists on a tray then transfer to a bag; bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
- Optional additions include chili flakes for heat, fresh herbs for aroma, or different cheeses for variation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: Parmesan cheese twists, spinach cheese pastry, cheesy appetizer, puff pastry recipe, savory snack, cheesy snack, easy party food, vegetarian appetizer
