Spinach Triangles

Spinach Triangles: A Healthy Culinary Indulgence

If you're looking for a recipe that impresses not only with taste but also with nutritional benefits, spinach triangles are the perfect choice. These delicious pastries are not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients that boost the immune system and aid in detoxifying the body. Spinach, the main ingredient, brings a wealth of essential vitamins and minerals, making it a true superfood. By preparing these triangles, you'll add a touch of health to your table and a smile to the faces of your loved ones.

Preparation Time:
- Active Time: 30 minutes
- Rising Time: 20 minutes
- Baking Time: 30 minutes
- Total: 80 minutes
- Servings: 6-8 servings

Necessary Ingredients

For the dough:
- 1.1 kg of flour
- 3 tablespoons of dry yeast
- 750 ml of warm water
- 220 ml of sunflower oil
- 4 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of salt

For the filling:
- 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- 1 kg of cleaned, washed, and chopped spinach (leaves and a few tender stems)
- 4 cloves of garlic, crushed
- 3 tablespoons of sumac
- 2 tablespoons of cumin
- Juice of one lemon
- 240 ml of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of hot pepper paste (red)
- 100 g of roasted walnuts, roughly chopped
- Salt to taste
- 200 g of olive oil for greasing the trays and triangles

Preparing the Dough

1. Activating the yeast: In a large bowl, combine 3 cups of flour with the dry yeast, sugar, and warm water. Mix gently and cover the bowl with a clean towel. Let it sit in a warm place for 10 minutes until the yeast activates and the mixture becomes frothy.

2. Forming the dough: Once the yeast is activated, add the remaining flour, oil, and salt. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes elastic and easily comes off your hands. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour.

3. Resting the dough: Cover the dough with a towel and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This step is important for achieving a fluffy dough.

Preparing the Filling

4. Preparing the spinach: Clean the spinach and wash it several times to remove impurities. Remove the leaves from the tougher stems, keeping only the tender stems. Chop the spinach into large pieces.

5. Cooking the spinach: In a large pan, add the olive oil and sauté the finely chopped onion until golden. Add the crushed garlic and spinach, stirring constantly. Allow the spinach to wilt and reduce. Add salt, sumac, cumin, and lemon juice. Mix well, then let the mixture cool.

6. Finalizing the filling: Once the spinach mixture has cooled, add the chopped roasted walnuts and hot pepper paste. Mix everything well and adjust the salt to taste.

Forming the Triangles

7. Shaping the dough: Divide the dough into balls the size of golf balls. Cover them with a towel to prevent drying out. On a lightly oiled surface, roll each ball into a thin disc.

8. Filling the triangles: Place a tablespoon of the spinach filling in the center of each disc. Fold the discs in half, forming a crescent shape, then seal the edges by pressing firmly. You can give the triangles a more aesthetic shape by pinching the corners.

9. Letting the triangles rise: Arrange the triangles on trays lined with parchment paper or greased with oil. Allow them to rise for 10 minutes.

Baking

10. Preheating the oven: Preheat the oven to 180-200 degrees Celsius. Before placing the triangles in the oven, brush them with olive oil for a golden crust.

11. Baking: Bake the triangles for 20-30 minutes, or until they become golden and crispy.

12. Finalizing: After removing them from the oven, cover the triangles with a clean towel for 10 minutes. This step helps retain moisture and makes the pastries flakier.

Serving and Suggestions

These spinach triangles can be served warm or cold, alongside a glass of yogurt or buttermilk, and also with a warm soup. For added flavor, you can sprinkle some sesame seeds or roasted sunflower seeds on top.

Variations and Tips

- Vegan option: You can omit cheese from the filling for a completely vegan version.
- Adding herbs: You can experiment with herbs like dill or parsley for extra flavor.
- Diverse fillings: Instead of spinach, you can use cabbage, mushrooms, or even cottage cheese. The possibilities are endless!

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

A serving of spinach triangles brings approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of oil used and the filling. Spinach is rich in vitamins A, C, K, and iron, having significant benefits for heart health and the immune system.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, frozen spinach is an excellent alternative. Make sure to drain it well before using.

2. Can I prepare the triangles in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the triangles, freeze them, and bake them directly from the freezer. You will need to adjust the baking time.

3. How can I make the triangles crispier?
Brush the triangles with a mixture of olive oil and a little milk before baking for a crispier crust.

If you want to add a touch of variety to your menu, don't hesitate to try this spinach triangle recipe. They are not only tasty but also an excellent way to consume vegetables in a pleasant and satisfying way. Enjoy your meal!