Spinach and Cheese Hand Pies

Spinach and Cheese Hand Pies are a delicious, savory treat that combines the rich flavors of cheese and the goodness of spinach, all wrapped in a flaky pastry. These little pies are perfect for a snack, appetizer, or even a light meal. Not only are they tasty, but they’re also easy to make, making them a great addition to your recipe collection.

Why make this recipe?

Making Spinach and Cheese Hand Pies is a fantastic way to enjoy healthy spinach and creamy cheese in a fun and portable form. They are versatile and can be prepared ahead of time for parties, picnics, or busy weeknights. Plus, everyone loves a good hand pie!

How to prepare Spinach and Cheese Hand Pies

Making Spinach and Cheese Hand Pies is simple! Just follow these steps to whip up a batch of these delightful snacks.

Ingredients:

• 🥬 1 cup spinach, chopped
• 🧀 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 🧀 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 🧅 1 onion, finely chopped
• 🫒 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 🧂 1 teaspoon salt
• 🧂 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 🥐 1 package of puff pastry or dough
• 🥚 1 egg (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Filling: In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until soft. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

2. Mix the Cheeses: In a mixing bowl, combine the feta cheese, ricotta cheese, salt, and black pepper. Once the spinach and onion mixture has cooled, add it to the cheese mixture and stir well.

3. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

4. Prepare the Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry or dough on a lightly floured surface. Cut into squares or circles, depending on your preference.

5. Fill the Pies: Place a spoonful of the spinach and cheese mixture in the center of each pastry square or circle. Fold over the dough to create a pocket and seal the edges with a fork or your fingers.

6. Egg Wash: Beat the egg and brush it over the tops of the hand pies for a golden finish.

7. Bake: Place the hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

8. Cool and Serve: Let them cool slightly before serving.

How to serve Spinach and Cheese Hand Pies

Serve these delicious hand pies warm, either as an appetizer or as part of a light meal. They pair wonderfully with a simple salad or your favorite dipping sauce.

How to store Spinach and Cheese Hand Pies

If you have leftovers, store your Spinach and Cheese Hand Pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them before baking. To reheat, bake them in the oven until warm, or heat them in the microwave for a quick snack.

Tips for preparing Spinach and Cheese Hand Pies

• Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the spinach after cooking to avoid a soggy filling.
• Experiment with different cheeses or add herbs to customize the flavor.
• Keep the puff pastry cold until you are ready to use it for the best texture.

Variations

• Herbed Spinach Pies: Add chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an extra flavor boost.
• Vegetarian Additions: Include other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes to the filling.
• Meat Lovers: Add cooked ground meat, such as chicken or beef, to the filling for a heartier option.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach! Just thaw it and make sure to drain any excess water before using it in the filling.

2. Can I make these hand pies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and fill the pies in advance. Refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake or freeze them for later.

3. What can I serve with Spinach and Cheese Hand Pies?
They pair well with a light salad, yogurt dip, or even a marinara sauce for dipping.

Enjoy your delicious Spinach and Cheese Hand Pies! They are perfect for any occasion and sure to be a hit with family and friends. 🥳