If you’re on the lookout for a delicious, flaky, and seriously satisfying snack, the Spinach and Ricotta Puff Pastry Rolls Recipe is an absolute winner. This dish combines the creamy, dreamy texture of ricotta cheese with vibrant spinach and a hint of garlic and lemon zest, all wrapped in golden, buttery puff pastry. The result is a savory roll that offers a perfect harmony of flavors and textures, ideal for entertaining or a cozy night in. Once you try these rolls, they’re bound to become one of your favorite go-to recipes for a quick yet impressive bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but essential, each playing a key role in making the Spinach and Ricotta Puff Pastry Rolls Recipe shine. From the creamy ricotta to the crispy puff pastry, it’s all about balance and bright flavors that come together effortlessly.
- Frozen spinach (250g, thawed and well-drained): Earthy and vibrant, it forms the fresh and wholesome base of the filling.
- Ricotta cheese (250g): Soft and creamy, it binds the filling and adds a rich, luscious texture.
- Grated parmesan (1/3 cup): Adds a savory, salty depth that elevates the flavor profile beautifully.
- Garlic clove (1 large, minced): A bold flavor enhancer that brings warmth and a mild bite to the filling.
- Lemon zest (1 teaspoon): Lifts and brightens the filling with its fresh citrusy notes.
- Nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a subtle warmth and complexity you might not expect but will love.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential to balance and season the filling perfectly.
- Egg (1 large, beaten): Half is folded into the filling for richness, and the other half is brushed on the pastry for that gorgeous golden finish.
- Puff pastry sheets (2 sheets): The flaky, buttery casing that encases the filling and bakes up beautifully.
- Sesame or poppy seeds (optional, 1 tablespoon): For a pretty and tasty sprinkle on top, adding a slight crunch.
How to Make Spinach and Ricotta Puff Pastry Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Tray
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper to ensure your rolls bake evenly and don’t stick. This sets the stage for beautifully crisp puff pastry.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the well-drained spinach, creamy ricotta, nutty parmesan, minced garlic, zesty lemon, warming nutmeg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Add half of the beaten egg to everything and mix until it’s perfectly blended. This filling is where all the magic happens — full of flavor, creamy, and just right for wrapping in pastry.
Step 3: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Lay out your puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Cut each pastry sheet in half so you’re left with four even rectangles. This sizing is perfect for rolling up the filling neatly and baking into bite-sized delights.
Step 4: Assemble the Rolls
Spoon a generous line of the spinach and ricotta mixture down one long side of each pastry rectangle. Then, roll the pastry tightly around the filling, pressing the seam down gently to seal. Place each roll seam-side down on your prepared tray. This ensures they hold their shape as they bake.
Step 5: Slice, Score, and Brush
Cut each roll into halves or thirds, depending on your preferred serving size. Lightly score the tops to help them puff up and look extra pretty. Brush with the remaining beaten egg for that golden sheen. If you like, sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds on top for texture and a lovely finish.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop your tray into the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes or until the puff pastry has risen beautifully and turned a golden brown. The kitchen will start to smell heavenly as the garlic, cheese, and buttery pastry meld together.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Let the rolls cool slightly before serving — just enough to hold comfortably in your hands. These Spinach and Ricotta Puff Pastry Rolls Recipe treats are fantastic on their own or dipped in your favorite sauce.
How to Serve Spinach and Ricotta Puff Pastry Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil adds a vibrant green pop and fresh aroma that pairs beautifully with the rich filling. You can also add a light drizzle of good quality olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for some brightness.
Side Dishes
Pair these rolls with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a light, refreshing contrast. For a heartier meal, serve alongside a warm tomato soup or a simple roasted vegetable medley that complements the cheesy, savory flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or special occasions, arrange the rolls on a platter lined with fresh spinach leaves or kale. You can serve them alongside dipping sauces like tzatziki, marinara, or a spicy harissa mayo to add a fun twist and extra dimension.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover rolls, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They maintain their flavor and texture well but are best enjoyed fresh and warm.
Freezing
You can freeze baked or unbaked rolls. For unbaked, assemble the rolls and freeze them on a tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time. For baked rolls, freeze fully cooled rolls in an airtight container or bag, and reheat when needed.
Reheating
To bring leftover rolls back to life, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving as it can make the pastry soggy.
FAQs
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Absolutely! If using fresh spinach, sauté it briefly until wilted, then drain thoroughly to remove excess moisture. This prevents the filling from becoming too wet.
Is there a substitute for ricotta cheese?
You can substitute ricotta with cream cheese or cottage cheese, but keep in mind that ricotta provides a light and creamy texture that complements spinach perfectly.
Can these rolls be made vegan?
Yes, by using plant-based ricotta alternatives and egg substitutes, along with vegan puff pastry, you can enjoy a vegan version while maintaining delicious flavor and texture.
Do I need to thaw frozen spinach before using?
Yes, thaw and squeeze out all excess water from the spinach to avoid soggy pastry and ensure the filling is flavorful and correctly textured.
Can I prepare the rolls in advance?
Definitely! You can assemble the rolls and keep them covered in the fridge for a few hours before baking. This makes them perfect for prepping ahead of time.
Final Thoughts
This Spinach and Ricotta Puff Pastry Rolls Recipe is one of those wonderful dishes that feels special yet is incredibly easy to pull together. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, appetizer, or part of a meal, their golden, flaky exterior and rich, flavorful filling will impress everyone at your table. I genuinely hope you give this recipe a try and find as much joy in making and eating it as I do sharing it with you.
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Spinach and Ricotta Puff Pastry Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 rolls (4 rectangles cut into halves)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
These Spinach and Ricotta Rolls are a delicious and savory treat featuring a creamy blend of spinach, ricotta, parmesan, and aromatic spices wrapped in flaky puff pastry. Perfect as a snack or appetizer, they bake to golden perfection with a beautiful crust topped with optional sesame or poppy seeds for added texture and flavor.
Ingredients
Filling
- 250g frozen spinach, thawed and well-drained
- 250g ricotta cheese
- 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 large garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 large egg, beaten (half for filling, half for brushing)
Pastry
- 2 sheets puff pastry
- 1 tablespoon sesame or poppy seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and baking tray: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Make the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the well-drained spinach, ricotta, parmesan, minced garlic, lemon zest, nutmeg, salt, pepper, and half of the beaten egg. Mix thoroughly until fully blended into a creamy, evenly seasoned filling.
- Prepare the pastry: On a floured surface, lay out the puff pastry sheets. Cut each sheet in half lengthwise to create four rectangular pieces.
- Assemble the rolls: Spoon a line of the spinach and ricotta filling along one long edge of each pastry rectangle. Roll the pastry tightly to enclose the filling, then place each roll seam-side down onto the prepared baking tray.
- Cut and decorate: Slice each roll into halves or thirds, depending on desired size. Lightly score the tops of the rolls to allow steam to escape. Brush the tops with the remaining beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds if using, to add a beautiful golden finish.
- Bake the rolls: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is puffed up, golden brown, and crispy on the outside.
- Serve: Allow the rolls to cool slightly before serving warm. They can be enjoyed plain or paired with your favorite dip for extra flavor.
Notes
- Make sure to thoroughly drain the spinach to avoid soggy pastry.
- You can substitute fresh spinach, sautéed and squeezed dry, if preferred.
- For a vegan version, use dairy-free ricotta and egg substitutes, and vegan puff pastry.
- These rolls can be made ahead and frozen before baking; bake directly from frozen adding a few extra minutes.
- Serve with marinara sauce, garlic yogurt dip, or a spicy chutney for variety.
