Spinach and goat cheese strudel

Spinach and Goat Cheese Strudel

Who doesn't love a warm strudel with a rich and flavorful filling? This spinach and goat cheese strudel is a true delight, a perfect combination of the flaky pastry texture and the intense flavor of the ingredients. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or even a main course, this dish will bring a smile to anyone's face. Let's discover together how you can prepare it!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Ingredients:
- 800 g puff pastry (thawed)
- 500 g fresh spinach (whole leaves)
- 500 g goat cheese (preferably fresh)
- 200 ml heavy cream
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- Salt (to taste)
- Oregano (for flavor)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil

The History of Strudel

Strudel is a traditional dish with deep roots in various culinary cultures. Over time, it has evolved and been adapted based on available ingredients. Today, strudel is known worldwide and can be filled with a variety of ingredients, from sweet to savory. Combining spinach with goat cheese is a tradition in many recipes, offering a delicious contrast between the slightly salty taste of the cheese and the fresh flavors of the spinach.

Preparing the Strudel

1. Thawing the pastry: Start by letting the puff pastry thaw at room temperature. This step is essential to ensure the pastry rolls out and bakes evenly.

2. Preparing the filling: While the pastry thaws, wash the spinach leaves well and chop them into large pieces. Choose fresh spinach, avoiding pre-chopped options that may have an unpleasant texture.

3. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the spinach with the goat cheese. The latter will add a creamy note to the dish. Finely chop the parsley and dill and add them to the bowl. Sprinkle a little salt to enhance the flavors.

4. Incorporating the cream: Add the heavy cream to the spinach and cheese mixture. This will help bind the ingredients and add a richer texture.

5. Preparing the pastry: Once the pastry has thawed, roll it out on a work surface. If necessary, you can roll it out a bit more with a rolling pin, ensuring you get an even sheet.

6. Creating the strudel: Cut the edges of the pastry into strips, leaving the center free for the filling. Place the spinach and cheese filling in the middle of the sheet, making sure to leave enough space to close the strudel.

7. Braiding: Braid the strips of pastry over the filling to create a beautiful appearance. If you don't have an egg on hand to brush the pastry, you can use olive oil, which will give a pleasant flavor and a golden hue.

8. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the strudel on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake for about 40 minutes or until golden and crispy.

Practical Tips:
- For an even prettier crust, it's recommended to brush the pastry with beaten egg before baking. This will give a more intense color and a pleasant texture.
- Handling the strudel: If you want to move the strudel to the tray without damaging it, use the plastic wrap it was packed in. Place the strudel on the wrap and use it to quickly transfer it to the tray.
- Serving: This strudel is delicious both warm and cold. You can serve it alongside a fresh salad or with a yogurt sauce for a refreshing touch.

Nutritional Benefits
Spinach is an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, benefiting eye health, the immune system, and cardiovascular health. Goat cheese is easier to digest than other types of cheese and provides an important source of protein and calcium.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use frozen spinach?: While fresh spinach is recommended for texture, frozen spinach can be used. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before use.
- What other fillings can I try?: You can experiment with various fillings such as mushrooms, feta cheese, or even ground meat. Be creative!
- How can I store the strudel?: The strudel can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven to bring it back to its original state.

This spinach and goat cheese strudel is not only a simple recipe but also an opportunity to explore the rich flavors and textures of fresh ingredients. Don't be afraid to experiment and add your own personal touches! Enjoy!