Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Croissants

Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Croissants

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

• • Onion: 1 small, finely chopped
  • Olive Oil: 3-4 tablespoons
  • Garlic Cloves: 3, grated

• • Scallions: 6, thinly sliced
  • Spinach Leaves: 1 pound (455g)
  • Salt: To taste

• • Black Pepper: Freshly cracked, to taste
  • Dried Dill: 1 teaspoon
  • Cream Cheese: 4 oz (115g)

• Feta Cheese: 11 oz (300g), crumbled
• Shredded Cheese (Mozzarella, Gouda, or Gruyère): To taste

For the Croissants:

• Croissants: 4-5, sliced in half lengthwise

Directions:

Preheat the Oven:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).

Prepare the Filling:

2. 2. Cook the Onion: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and a pinch of salt. Sauté for about 8 minutes until soft and golden.

2. 2. Add Garlic: Stir in the grated garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
   3. Cook Scallions: Add the thinly sliced scallions and cook for another 2-3 minutes until softened.
   4. Cook Spinach: Add the spinach in batches, along with salt and pepper, cooking over high heat until the spinach wilts and the liquid evaporates. This should take 5-7 minutes.

2. Mix in Dill and Cream Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in the dried dill and cream cheese, mixing until fully combined.
3. Add Feta Cheese: Stir in the crumbled feta cheese until evenly distributed.

Assemble the Croissants:

8. 8. Prepare Croissants: Place the bottoms of the sliced croissants on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

8. Add Filling: Divide the spinach and cheese filling among the croissants. Top with shredded mozzarella or your preferred cheese.

Bake:

10. 10. Bake Croissants: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes or until the cheese melts and the filling is heated through.
    11. Add Croissant Tops: Place the croissant tops over the filling and return to the oven for 3-4 minutes, allowing them to warm through and become lightly toasted.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve warm with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Pair with a light tomato or vegetable soup for a cozy lunch or dinner.

Cooking Tips:

• • Prevent Soggy Filling: Cook the spinach on high heat to evaporate excess moisture before mixing with the cheese.

• Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of nutmeg to the spinach mixture for extra depth of flavor.
• Cheese Variety: Use a mix of cheeses like cheddar, Swiss, or gouda to enhance the flavor complexity.

Nutritional Benefits:

• • Spinach: Loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, along with iron, magnesium, and antioxidants.

• Feta Cheese: Rich in protein and calcium, supporting bone health.
• Olive Oil: A good source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.

Dietary Information:

• • Vegetarian-Friendly: Ensure all cheeses are suitable for vegetarians.

• Lighter Option: Use low-fat cream cheese and reduce the amount of shredded cheese for a lighter version.

Storage Tips:

• • Refrigerate Leftovers: Store any leftover croissants in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Comforting and Satisfying: The rich, cheesy spinach filling inside a flaky croissant is the perfect combination of comfort and indulgence.
• Easy to Make: These stuffed croissants are simple to prepare and are great for a quick meal or snack.
• Versatile: Enjoy them for breakfast, lunch, brunch, or as an appetizer at your next gathering.