Ricotta Spinach Puff Pastry Twists

Crispy on the outside and creamy within these Ricotta and Spinach Puff Pastry Twists bring together everything you want in a crowd-pleasing appetizer. I made these twists for a last-minute get-together and they vanished before I could even refill the platter. Each bite is cheesy flaky and full of spinach making them just as perfect for a holiday spread as for a simple afternoon snack.

The first time I whipped these up I had leftover ricotta and spinach in the fridge and not much else. My family still talks about that afternoon when the kitchen smelled like a cozy European bakery.

Ingredients

• Ricotta cheese: creamy mild and provides a rich filling use whole milk ricotta for better flavor
• Fresh spinach: adds earthiness and a fresh pop of color choose baby spinach for tender leaves
• Grated Parmesan cheese: nutty and salty boosts the umami layer buy a block and grate it fresh
• Large egg: binds the filling together gives a golden color during baking use the freshest eggs you can find
• Garlic clove: brings a bit of warmth and complexity mince finely for even flavor
• Salt: enhances the overall taste use fine sea salt
• Freshly ground black pepper: provides a little kick grind it fresh if possible
• Ground nutmeg: optional but worth it for a hint of warmth use real nutmeg and grate just a little
• Puff pastry: forms the flaky golden exterior choose a high-quality all-butter pastry and thaw it properly
• Sesame seeds or poppy seeds: optional but add a lovely crunch and pretty finish pick whichever you have on hand

Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet:

Set your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit or 200 degrees Celsius and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking

Mix the Filling:

Combine ricotta cheese chopped fresh spinach grated Parmesan one beaten egg minced garlic salt pepper and nutmeg in a medium bowl Mix with a spoon or spatula until the spinach is distributed evenly and the mixture is creamy

Roll Out the Pastry:

Unroll the puff pastry sheet onto a lightly floured surface to prevent sticking Smooth it out gently to an even thickness

Spread the Filling:

Spoon the ricotta and spinach mixture over half of the pastry sheet Leave a clear border around the edges for easier sealing Spread in an even layer right to the edges of your border

Fold and Seal:

Carefully fold the empty half of the pastry over the filled side aligning the edges Press gently to seal all sides so the filling does not leak

Slice the Twists:

Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice across the folded pastry Make twelve even strips Each strip should hold together with filling inside

Twist and Arrange:

Twist each strip a few times so the filling shows through Place them spaced out on your prepared baking sheet This ensures even baking and maximum crispiness

Brush and Top:

Brush each pastry twist with beaten egg for a golden shiny finish Sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds for extra flavor and crunch

Bake:

Transfer the sheet to the preheated oven Bake for eighteen to twenty minutes until the twists are puffed up and golden brown Check that the bottoms are crisp

Cool and Serve:

Let the twists cool for a few minutes They are best enjoyed warm but taste great at room temperature too

Pin

My favorite part is always the nutmeg It is subtle but gives that nostalgic cozy note My little cousins helped me twist the pastry last Easter and now this recipe is a family tradition

Storage Tips

Keep leftover twists in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days When ready to reheat pop them back into the oven for about five minutes at 350 degrees This keeps them crisp instead of soggy Unlike the microwave which can make the pastry limp the oven restores their golden crunch

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap in frozen spinach if fresh is unavailable Thaw and squeeze dry to keep the filling creamy Goat cheese or feta can be used in place of ricotta but reduce the added salt Parmesan adds flavor but you can use Grana Padano or nutritional yeast for a similar effect

Serving Suggestions

Pair these with a tangy marinara sauce or a fresh herbed yogurt dip They sit pretty on a platter with some cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers For brunch I sometimes serve them beside a green salad and a glass of sparkling lemonade

Cultural and Historical Context

Spinach and ricotta is a classic filling in Italian and Mediterranean kitchens Whether in cannelloni or savory pies their combination symbolizes comfort and tradition Using puff pastry brings a light European café style twist which always feels special on the table

Seasonal Adaptations

Use wild spring greens or baby kale instead of spinach in spring Add soft herbs like basil or chives in summer for a fresh touch Substitute roasted pumpkin for part of the spinach filling in autumn

Success Stories

I have made these twists for book clubs birthday parties and even as a midnight snack They always draw compliments from guests and friends often ask for the recipe One neighbor told me her picky eater finally tried spinach after sampling one of these golden bites

Freezer Meal Conversion

Assemble the twists all the way up to twisting and topping Flash freeze on a tray then store in a sealed bag Once guests are on their way bake from frozen adding just a few extra minutes No one ever guesses they are not made fresh that very day

Pin

These twists are perfect for any occasion They offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that are sure to please a wide range of palates.

Recipe FAQ

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, thaw and drain frozen spinach thoroughly before mixing it into the filling for best results.

→ What sauce pairs well with these twists?

Serve with marinara sauce or a herbed yogurt dip to complement the cheesy, savory flavors.

→ How do I keep the twists crispy?

Allow twists to cool slightly on a wire rack after baking to maintain their crispiness.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Twists can be prepared and twisted in advance, then baked just before serving for optimal freshness.

→ Are these twists suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, all main ingredients are vegetarian. Check your cheese and pastry to ensure vegetarian-friendly products.

→ Can I add extra seasoning?

Absolutely! A pinch of chili flakes or your favorite herbs can enhance the flavor profile.