Save to Pinterest Flaky, golden pastry parcels filled with a flavorful mix of spinach, creamy feta, herbs, and a hint of garlic—youll find these perfect as a snack appetizer or light meal.
Preparing these hand pies always brings joy to our kitchen gatherings; theyre a beloved treat that combines savory and fresh tastes in every bite.
Ingredients
- For the Filling: 300 g (10 oz) fresh spinach washed and chopped, 1 tbsp olive oil, 2 cloves garlic minced, 150 g (5 oz) feta cheese crumbled, 100 g (3.5 oz) ricotta cheese, 1 small onion finely diced, 2 tbsp fresh dill chopped (or 1 tbsp dried dill), 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Pastry: 2 sheets puff pastry (about 500 g / 1 lb) thawed if frozen, 1 egg beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic sauté until fragrant and translucent about 2 3 minutes.
- Step 3:
- Add spinach and cook stirring until wilted and excess moisture has evaporated about 4 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Step 4:
- In a large bowl combine the cooked spinach mixture feta ricotta dill nutmeg salt and pepper. Mix well.
- Step 5:
- Unroll the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Cut each sheet into 4 equal squares total 8 squares.
- Step 6:
- Place 2 3 tablespoons of filling in the center of each square. Fold the pastry over to form a triangle or rectangle pressing the edges with a fork to seal.
- Step 7:
- Transfer the pies to the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with beaten egg.
- Step 8:
- Bake for 20 25 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
- Step 9:
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Save to Pinterest This recipe brings the family together as everyone loves contributing to making and sharing these savory hand pies during weekends.
Required Tools
Large skillet mixing bowl knife and cutting board baking sheet parchment paper pastry brush fork
Allergen Information
Contains egg milk (feta ricotta puff pastry) gluten (puff pastry). Check pastry packaging for potential traces of nuts or soy.
Nutritional Information
Calories 285 Total Fat 17 g Carbohydrates 23 g Protein 8 g per serving.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy your hand pies warm with a fresh side salad for a complete meal that delights every time.
Questions & Answers
- → How do I prevent the pastry from getting soggy?
Drain the cooked spinach thoroughly and allow it to cool before mixing with the cheese to reduce moisture. Also, sealing the pastry edges well helps maintain crispness.
- → Can I prepare the hand pies in advance?
Yes, you can assemble them beforehand and refrigerate for a few hours. Bake them fresh before serving for the best texture.
- → What herbs complement the spinach and feta filling?
Fresh dill works wonderfully to enhance the filling, adding a bright, aromatic note.
- → Are there suitable substitutes for ricotta cheese?
Cream cheese can be used for a richer filling, while vegan alternatives work for dairy-free versions.
- → What cooking tools do I need for these hand pies?
A skillet for sautéing, mixing bowl, rolling surface, baking sheet lined with parchment, and a pastry brush for egg wash are essential.
- → How long should I bake the hand pies?
Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 20-25 minutes until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.