Parmesan and Spinach Cheese Twists Recipe

Introduction

Parmesan and Spinach Cheese Twists are a delightful snack or appetizer that combines flaky puff pastry with a savory spinach and cheese filling. These twists are easy to make and perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a tasty treat anytime.

Ingredients

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 large egg, beaten (for brushing)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: In a bowl, combine chopped spinach, Parmesan, mozzarella, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly mixed.
3. Step 3: Unfold the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface and roll it out slightly to smooth the edges.
4. Step 4: Spread the spinach and cheese mixture evenly over half of the pastry, then fold the other half over the filling to cover it.
5. Step 5: Cut the folded pastry into 1-inch wide strips and gently twist each strip several times.
6. Step 6: Arrange the twists on the prepared baking sheet, brush them with the beaten egg, and bake for 15–18 minutes until they are golden and puffed.
7. Step 7: Remove from the oven and, if desired, sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese. Serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the filling.
• Use frozen chopped spinach if fresh isn’t available; be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before mixing.
• Try swapping mozzarella for feta cheese for a tangier twist.

Storage

Store leftover twists in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness. These twists are best enjoyed fresh but can also be frozen before baking for up to 1 month; bake directly from frozen adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these twists ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the twists and place them on a baking sheet covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking. This is convenient for parties or meal prep.

What can I use instead of puff pastry?

If puff pastry isn’t available, phyllo dough or crescent roll dough can be used as alternatives, though the texture will differ slightly. Adjust baking time accordingly if needed.

Parmesan and Spinach Cheese Twists Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 73 reviews

• Author: Mariam
• Total Time: 30-33 minutes
• Yield: 12 twists 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Parmesan and Spinach Cheese Twists are a delightful and easy-to-make appetizer or snack featuring flaky puff pastry filled with a savory blend of fresh spinach, Parmesan, mozzarella, and garlic. Golden and perfectly twisted, these cheese twists bake up crisp and flavorful, making them ideal for parties, gatherings, or a delicious treat anytime.

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Ingredients

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Pastry

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed

Filling

• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Brushing

• 1 large egg, beaten

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Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
2. Mix Filling: In a bowl, combine the chopped fresh spinach, grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well mixed.
3. Prepare Puff Pastry: Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out gently just enough to smooth out the edges and ensure an even surface.
4. Add Filling and Fold: Spread the spinach and cheese mixture evenly over half of the puff pastry sheet. Then fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to create a layered pocket.
5. Cut and Twist: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the folded pastry into 1-inch wide strips. Twist each strip gently several times to create the cheese twists.
6. Brush and Bake: Place the twists onto the prepared baking sheet. Brush each twist evenly with the beaten egg to give them a shiny, golden finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the twists are golden brown and puffed up.
7. Serve: Remove from the oven and optionally sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese. Serve the cheese twists warm for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

• Make sure the puff pastry is well thawed at room temperature before unfolding to avoid cracking.
• For a stronger garlic flavor, freshly minced garlic can be used instead of garlic powder.
• These twists can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.
• Try swapping mozzarella for other mild melting cheeses like fontina or Monterey Jack for a different taste.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven to preserve crispness.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Keywords: Parmesan cheese twists, spinach cheese pastry, puff pastry appetizer, easy cheese snacks, baked cheese twists