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Parmesan and Spinach Cheese Twists Recipe

4.5 from 62 reviews

These Parmesan and Spinach Cheese Twists are flaky, cheesy pastries with a savory filling of spinach, garlic, Parmesan, and mozzarella. Perfect as appetizers, snacks, or party finger foods, they’re crispy on the outside and tenderly cheesy inside with a subtle earthy kick from spinach. Ready in under 30 minutes, they can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature and make an impressive yet simple treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Pastry and Egg Wash

  • 1 sheet puff pastry (about 250 g), thawed if frozen
  • 1 egg, lightly beaten (for egg wash)
  • 1 tablespoon milk or cream (for egg wash)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame or poppy seeds (optional, for topping)

Filling

  • 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 100 g (3.5 oz) fresh spinach, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • ½ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for warmth)
  • 80 g (¾ cup) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 100 g (1 cup) shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter or heat olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach and cook for 2–3 minutes until wilted. Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  2. Prepare the Pastry: Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Unroll the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. If pastry is too soft, refrigerate 5–10 minutes to firm up.
  3. Assemble the Twists: Spread the cooled spinach mixture evenly over half of the puff pastry sheet. Sprinkle Parmesan and mozzarella cheese evenly over the spinach. Fold the pastry in half to cover filling and gently press to seal.
  4. Cut and Twist: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the pastry into strips about 1.5–2 cm wide. Twist each strip several times and place on prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart.
  5. Add the Finishing Touch: Beat the egg with milk or cream and brush over each twist for a shiny, golden finish. Sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds on top if using.
  6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes or until twists are puffed and golden brown.
  7. Serve: Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Keep puff pastry cold before baking to ensure proper puffing.
  • Use parchment paper to avoid sticking and ease cleanup.
  • Do not overload the filling to prevent soggy pastry.
  • If spinach is watery, squeeze out excess liquid before spreading.
  • Reheat leftovers in oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5–7 minutes to maintain crispness; avoid microwaving.
  • Store airtight at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4 days. Freeze unbaked twists on tray, then transfer to freezer bag; bake from frozen with extra baking time.

Keywords: Parmesan cheese, spinach, cheese twists, puff pastry, appetizer, snack, party food, vegetarian, savory pastry