Cottage Cheese & Spinach Pastry

Name: Cottage Cheese & Spinach Pastry
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 pastries
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup butter, chilled and cubed; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup cold water; 1 cup cottage cheese; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1 egg, beaten; Salt and pepper to taste; A pinch of nutmeg

Highlighted under: Light & Fresh Meals

I absolutely love making Cottage Cheese & Spinach Pastry! This dish combines the creaminess of cottage cheese with the freshness of spinach, all wrapped in a flaky pastry. It’s not only simple to prepare but also a wonderful option for a quick snack or an elegant appetizer. I often prepare it for gatherings, and it never fails to impress my guests. Plus, you can customize the filling with your favorite herbs and spices, making each batch uniquely delicious.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-25T20:57:27.971Z

When I first tried making these pastries, I was amazed at how easy yet satisfying they were to prepare. I experimented with various spices and herbs to elevate the flavor, and I found that a pinch of nutmeg adds an unexpected depth without overpowering the dish. This unique touch brought the flavors together beautifully.

Another tip I picked up is to ensure the spinach is well-drained before mixing it with the cottage cheese. Excess moisture can lead to a soggy pastry, which we definitely want to avoid. This small step made a huge difference in achieving a perfectly flaky texture.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Deliciously creamy filling packed with nutrients
Flaky pastry that contrasts perfectly with the rich filling
Versatile enough to serve as a snack, appetizer, or side dish

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to a successful Cottage Cheese & Spinach Pastry lies in choosing high-quality ingredients. Fresh spinach contributes not just flavor but also vibrant color and nutrition. If fresh spinach is unavailable, you can opt for frozen spinach, just be sure to thaw and thoroughly drain it to avoid excess moisture. The cottage cheese provides creaminess, so using a full-fat version will yield a richer filling, while a low-fat option offers a lighter alternative without sacrificing too much creaminess.

The choice of cheese also plays a crucial role. Mozzarella melts beautifully, adding a delightful stretch and creaminess. If you prefer a sharper flavor, you can substitute it with feta cheese, which pairs wonderfully with spinach. Just keep in mind that feta is saltier, so adjust the salt levels in the filling accordingly. Finally, the addition of nutmeg enhances the filling's depth, creating an inviting aroma that will lure guests to the table.

Perfecting Your Pastry

Achieving a flaky pastry is all about handling the dough properly. When mixing the butter into the flour, doing so until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs is crucial. If you work the butter too much and create a paste, your pastry will lose its desired texture. When adding the cold water, do so slowly, and mix just until the dough forms – overmixing can lead to tough pastry. After resting in the refrigerator, your dough will be easier to roll out, which is essential for a uniformly baked pastry.

When rolling out your pastry, aim for an even thickness of about 1/8 inch for the best results. This thickness allows the pastry to cook through properly while still remaining flaky. A sharp knife or pizza cutter works well for cutting the dough into squares. For a finishing touch that adds flair, brush the tops of the filled pastries with a beaten egg before baking. This will create a beautiful golden-brown finish that’s visually appealing.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

If you want to make ahead, you can prepare the filling and pastry separately. Keep the pastry dough wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the fridge for up to 2 days. The filling can also be made a day in advance, just store it in an airtight container. When you're ready to assemble, let the dough sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling it out to make it easier to handle. If you're in a hurry, you can even freeze the assembled pastries; just bake them directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

These pastries are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. They make for a delicious appetizer or a beautiful side dish alongside a salad. For a pop of flavor, consider serving them with a yogurt or sour cream dip, or a squeeze of lemon for freshness. If you're looking to impress, pair them with a glass of chilled white wine for a delightful contrast to the warm, flaky pastries.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious pastries:

For the Pastry:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup butter, chilled and cubed
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup cold water

For the Filling:

1 cup cottage cheese
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 egg, beaten
Salt and pepper to taste
A pinch of nutmeg

Make sure to have everything prepped and ready before you start assembling.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Cottage Cheese & Spinach Pastry:

Make the Pastry Dough

In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the chilled butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water, stirring until the dough forms. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, mix together cottage cheese, chopped spinach, mozzarella, beaten egg, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Assemble the Pastries

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the pastry dough on a floured surface. Cut into squares, placing a spoonful of the filling in the center. Fold the corners over the filling and seal the edges with a fork.

Bake

Place the pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy your pastries warm or at room temperature!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding chopped herbs like dill or parsley to the filling. A sprinkle of sesame seeds on top before baking can also add a lovely crunch.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common challenge when making pastries is sogginess. To prevent this, ensure your pastry is baked until golden brown. Check for doneness by looking for a rich color on the top and bottom. Another tip is to avoid overfilling, as excess moisture can lead to a soggy bottom. Always leave a margin around the filling when assembling.

If you find that your pastries are not browning well, it might be due to an oven that is set too low. Ensuring your oven is preheated to the correct temperature is vital. An oven thermometer can help you verify this. Baking on the center rack also allows for even heat distribution, which promotes proper browning.

Exploring Flavor Variations

While the classic cottage cheese and spinach filling is delightful on its own, experimenting with additional herbs and spices can elevate the flavor profile. Consider adding sautéed garlic or diced onions for an aromatic layer. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley complement the filling beautifully, while a sprinkle of chili flakes can provide a subtle kick.

You can also adapt the fillings to include other vegetables, such as finely chopped bell peppers or mushrooms. If you prefer a meatier version, try adding cooked ground meat or crumbled sausage. These substitutions can transform the dish from a vegetarian option to a heartier meal, perfect for a cozy dinner.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, frozen spinach works well! Just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the filling.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven for best results.

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance; just keep it wrapped in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.

→ What can I serve with these pastries?

These pastries pair well with a simple salad or a tangy yogurt dip. They also make a great addition to any appetizer spread.