Are you craving a delicious and surprisingly easy side dish that'll impress even the pickiest eaters? Then look no further! Inspired by the lovable Kronk from Disney's Emperor's New Groove, these Spinach Puffs are a simple yet elegant addition to any meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a delightful brunch, or even a sophisticated appetizer, these puffs are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. They're a healthy and flavorful option, perfect for those seeking easy recipes and healthy meals. Let's dive into this homemade cooking adventure!
Ingredients:
- 1 package (10 ounces) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh onion
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 package (14.1 ounces) refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet. This simple step ensures your puffs won’t stick to the pan.
Prepare the Filling:
- In a medium bowl, combine the thawed and squeezed spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, onion, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined. Make sure to squeeze out as much excess water from the spinach as possible; this prevents soggy puffs.
Assemble the Puffs:
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Unroll one pie crust and cut it into 8 equal squares. You can use a pizza cutter or a sharp knife for this.
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Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the spinach mixture into the center of each square.
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Fold the corners of each square over the filling to create a puff. You can crimp the edges with a fork for a pretty finish.
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Place the assembled puffs onto the prepared baking sheet.
Bake to Perfection:
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is heated through.
Serve and Enjoy!
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. These Spinach Puffs are delicious on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a side salad or your favorite soup.
Tips for Success:
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or red pepper flakes to the filling.
- If you don't have fresh onion, you can use 1 tablespoon of dried minced onion instead.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Feta or mozzarella would also be delicious.
- For a vegetarian option, ensure your pie crusts are vegetarian-friendly.
Variations:
- Mushroom Medley: Add sautéed mushrooms to the spinach filling for an earthy twist.
- Sun-Dried Tomato Delight: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of Mediterranean flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy variation.
Nutritional Information (per puff, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: Approximately 5-7 grams
- Fat: Approximately 8-10 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20 grams
These quick dinner ideas are not only tasty but also relatively healthy, making them a perfect addition to your weekly meal plan. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, Kronk’s Spinach Puffs are a recipe that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the deliciousness!