Spinach and Artichoke Puff Pastry Bites are a delicious and elegant appetizer that combines creamy spinach and artichoke filling with flaky puff pastry. Perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or any special occasion, these bites are sure to impress your guests with their rich flavor and appealing presentation.

Ingredients List

For the Filling:

• 1 cup fresh spinach (or 1/2 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
• 1 cup canned artichoke hearts (drained and chopped)
• 1/2 cup cream cheese (softened)
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For the Pastry:

• 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Timing

Preparing Spinach and Artichoke Puff Pastry Bites takes about 15 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for baking, totaling approximately 35 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. Sauté Spinach: If using fresh spinach, sauté it in a pan over medium heat until wilted. If using frozen spinach, ensure it is completely thawed and drained of excess moisture.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed spinach, chopped artichoke hearts, cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Prepare the Puff Pastry

1. Roll Out Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet to smooth it out. Cut the pastry into squares (about 3×3 inches).
2. Place on Baking Sheet: Arrange the pastry squares on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece.

Step 4: Fill the Pastry

1. Add Filling: Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of the spinach and artichoke filling into the center of each pastry square.
2. Fold the Pastry: If desired, fold the corners of the pastry over the filling to create a pocket, or leave them open-faced.

Step 5: Brush with Egg Wash

1. Make Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk the egg with a tablespoon of water to create an egg wash.
2. Brush with Egg Wash: Gently brush the edges of the pastry with the egg wash for a golden finish.

Step 6: Bake the Bites

1. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.
2. Cool Slightly: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.

Step 7: Serve

1. Garnish: If desired, sprinkle with fresh parsley for added flavor and presentation.
2. Enjoy Warm: Serve the spinach and artichoke puff pastry bites warm as a delicious appetizer!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Spinach and Artichoke Puff Pastry Bites (per bite, assuming 12 bites):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	120
Protein	3g
Fat	9g
Carbohydrates	8g
Fiber	1g

Tips for Customization

• Add Cheese: Incorporate additional cheeses like feta or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.
• Use Different Greens: Substitute kale or Swiss chard for spinach for a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions

Spinach and Artichoke Puff Pastry Bites pair well with:

• A glass of white wine or sparkling water for a refreshing complement.
• A cheese platter with assorted cheeses and crackers for a complete appetizer spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overfilling the Pastry: Be careful not to add too much filling, as it can cause the pastry to burst during baking.
2. Not Thawing Puff Pastry: Ensure the puff pastry is fully thawed before rolling it out to avoid cracking.
3. Skipping the Egg Wash: The egg wash gives the pastry a beautiful golden color, so don’t skip this step!

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Spinach and Artichoke Puff Pastry Bites are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to regain crispness.

Conclusion

In just about 35 minutes, you can create Spinach and Artichoke Puff Pastry Bites, a deliciously creamy and flaky appetizer that’s sure to impress your guests. With their rich flavors and elegant presentation, these bites are perfect for any occasion!

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake just before serving for the best results.

Can I freeze the assembled bites?

Yes! You can freeze the assembled bites before baking. Just bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What if I don’t have artichoke hearts?

You can omit the artichokes or substitute them with another vegetable, such as mushrooms or roasted red peppers.

Can I use phyllo dough instead of puff pastry?

Yes! Phyllo dough can be used, but the texture will be different. You may need to adjust the baking time.