Spinach Spiral

Spinach and Feta Spiral: A Green Delight for the Soul and Body

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Introduction

Welcome to a culinary journey full of flavor and color! Today, we will indulge in a spinach spiral recipe, a perfect combination of fresh vegetables and the crispy texture of puff pastry. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it ideal for family meals or gatherings with friends. Spinach, the main ingredient, is packed with essential nutrients, being a rich source of iron, vitamins, and antioxidants. Let's see how we can transform these ingredients into a culinary masterpiece!

Necessary ingredients

- 1 kg fresh spinach
- 400 g puff pastry (usually available in stores, but you can try making it at home)
- 300 g grated feta cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 2-3 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- 3-4 cloves of garlic, crushed
- 1 bunch of fresh dill, chopped
- 1 egg yolk
- 2 tablespoons of milk
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1-2 tablespoons of sesame seeds (optional, for added flavor)

The story behind the recipe

The spinach spiral is a recipe that blends tradition with modernity. Since ancient times, various cultures have valued the rich nutrients of spinach, and cheese has been an essential ingredient in many dishes. Today, this recipe is popular worldwide, having variations that reflect the history and tastes of each region. Spinach spirals are versatile and can be served as an appetizer, snack, or even a main course, alongside a fresh salad.

Step-by-step preparation

1. Preparing the spinach: Start by thoroughly cleaning the spinach. Wash it in several waters, ensuring you remove any impurities. Then, place it in a pot of boiling water and let it boil for 5-6 minutes. This process will help soften the leaves and retain their vibrant green color.

2. Blanching and chopping the spinach: After the spinach has boiled, drain it well in a sieve. Once it has cooled, squeeze it well to remove excess water and chop it finely with a knife. It is essential to remove as much water as possible to avoid weighing down the pastry.

3. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the chopped spinach with the grated feta cheese, breadcrumbs, crushed garlic, and chopped dill. Add the two eggs and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix the ingredients well until you obtain a homogeneous mixture.

4. Preparing the pastry: Unroll the puff pastry and roll it out slightly with a rolling pin if necessary. Cut it into long strips, about 5-7 cm wide. These strips will be the base of your delicious spiral.

5. Forming the spiral: Place the spinach mixture on each strip of pastry, leaving a small space at the ends. Roll the strips starting from one end, forming spirals. Ensure that the filling does not spill out of the pastry.

6. Arranging in the tray: Prepare a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Arrange the spirals in a circular shape, side by side, so that they intertwine beautifully.

7. Glazing the spiral: In a small bowl, beat the egg yolk with the two tablespoons of milk. Use a pastry brush to glaze the spiral with this mixture, which will help achieve a golden and shiny color. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for a crunchy and attractive appearance.

8. Baking: Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Place the tray in the oven and bake the spiral for about 30 minutes, or until it becomes golden and crispy. The aromas will fill the entire kitchen, and you will be eager to enjoy your creation!

9. Cooling and serving: Once the spiral is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before cutting it. You can serve it warm or at room temperature, alongside a fresh salad or a yogurt dip with dill.

Practical tips for a perfect result

- Make sure the spinach is well-drained; otherwise, the pastry will become wet and sticky.
- You can experiment with other cheeses, such as goat cheese or ricotta, to add a personal touch.
- If you want a healthier version, you can use whole wheat pastry or omit the breadcrumbs from the recipe.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before using.

2. How can I store the spiral?
The spiral stores well in the refrigerator, covered, for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven to restore its crispy texture.

3. Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, spinach spirals are completely vegetarian, making them ideal for those following a plant-based diet.

Nutritional benefits

Spinach is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as essential minerals like iron and calcium. Feta cheese provides a good amount of protein and calcium, while eggs contribute to a healthy protein intake. This recipe is not only tasty but also nutritious, offering a balanced and satisfying meal.

Possible variations

- You can add additional vegetables, such as sautéed onions or grated carrots, to enrich the flavor and texture.
- Alternatively, you can turn the spiral into a vegan dish by replacing the feta cheese with a plant-based alternative.

Serving suggestions

Accompany the spiral with a yogurt dip with lemon and dill or with a salad of tomatoes and cucumbers to add a fresh contrast. A refreshing drink, such as a green smoothie or mint tea, will perfectly complement the meal.

So, get ready to delight the taste buds of your loved ones with this spinach and feta spiral recipe. Whether it's a family dinner or a party with friends, these spirals are surely a treat that will impress everyone! Enjoy!