Spinach-filled spiral
I am excited to present to you a delicious and easy-to-make recipe: the spiral filled with spinach and ricotta. This pie not only looks spectacular, but it is also an excellent choice for festive meals or a quick and healthy dinner. The filling can be customized according to your preferences, so feel free to experiment!
Total preparation time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 6
Required ingredients
- 500 g puff pastry
- 600-700 g fresh spinach
- 100 g ricotta or cow's cheese
- 1 tablespoon grated parmesan or cheese
- 1 tablespoon breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 egg yolk + 2 tablespoons of milk (for brushing)
- Poppy or sesame seeds (for decoration)
Nutritional benefits
Spinach is an excellent source of vitamins (A, C, K) and minerals (iron, calcium), being extremely beneficial for bone health and the immune system. Ricotta, on the other hand, is rich in protein and calcium, contributing to muscle building and dental health. This combination makes the spiral filled with spinach not only delicious but also healthy!
Preparing the pie
1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by cleaning the spinach. Wash it well under cold running water, making sure to remove any impurities. It is important to use fresh spinach to get a tasty and nutrient-rich filling.
2. Boiling the spinach
Fill a pot with water and put it on the heat. When the water reaches boiling point, add the spinach and let it boil for 5-6 minutes. Then, remove it from the water and place it in a colander to drain and cool.
3. Preparing the filling
After the spinach has cooled, squeeze it very well to remove excess water. Chop it finely and mix it in a bowl with ricotta (or cow's cheese), parmesan (or cheese), the egg, and breadcrumbs. Make sure all the ingredients are well incorporated.
4. Preparing the dough
Roll out the puff pastry on a clean surface and cut it into strips 4-5 cm wide. These strips will form your delicious rolls.
5. Filling and rolling
On each strip of dough, place a portion of the spinach and ricotta mixture, spreading the filling evenly along the entire length. Carefully roll each strip to form a cylinder.
6. Forming the spiral
Place the obtained rolls in a baking tray lined with baking paper, arranging them one after another in a spiral shape. This step will not only make the pie look wonderful, but it will also allow for even baking.
7. Brushing and decorating
In a small bowl, mix the egg yolk with the 2 tablespoons of milk. Use this mixture to brush the spiral, which will give it a golden and appetizing appearance. Sprinkle poppy or sesame seeds on top for added texture and flavor.
8. Baking
Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Bake the spiral for 20-25 minutes or until it becomes golden and crispy. The aroma will fill the entire kitchen, and your patience will be rewarded.
9. Serving
After it has cooled slightly, cut the spiral into portions and serve it warm. It is delicious both on its own and with a fresh salad on the side.
Tips and variations
- Filling variations: Instead of spinach, you can use other vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or broccoli. Also, for added flavor, you can add fresh herbs like dill or parsley.
- Serving: This filled spiral pairs perfectly with a yogurt sauce or a lemon and olive oil emulsion.
- Storing: You can freeze the unbaked spirals and bake them directly from the freezer when you need a quick snack.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with feta or mozzarella cheese, depending on your preferences.
- What other ingredients can I add?
You can include chopped nuts, olives, or even slices of sun-dried tomatoes to add extra flavor.
- How can I make the dough at home?
If you want to try making the dough from scratch, you can use a simple recipe with flour, water, and butter. Roll it out well and use it just like puff pastry.
In conclusion, the spiral filled with spinach and ricotta is a versatile and delicious recipe, perfect for any occasion. Whether you prepare it for a festive meal or for an ordinary evening, it will surely impress everyone. I encourage you to experiment and put your personal touch on this recipe, as cooking is about creativity and joy! Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: 500 g puff pastry, 600-700 g spinach, 100 g ricotta/cottage cheese, 1 tablespoon grated parmesan/cheese, 1 tablespoon breadcrumbs, 1 egg, 1 yolk + 2 tablespoons milk poppy/sesame
