Cottage Cheese & Spinach Pastry

Name: Cottage Cheese & Spinach Pastry
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed; 1/4 cup cold water; 1 cup cottage cheese; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg, beaten; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Simple & Tasty Meals

I absolutely love making this Cottage Cheese & Spinach Pastry because it’s not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to whip up. The creamy cottage cheese paired with the vibrant spinach creates a delightful filling enveloped in flaky pastry. When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how quickly it came together and how satisfying it was. It's perfect for a cozy family dinner, brunch, or even as a snack to impress your guests. I can't wait to share it with you!

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-01-25T17:57:28.744Z

When I first experimented with Cottage Cheese & Spinach Pastry, I was delighted by the way the flavors blended. Each bite is packed with nutrition and comfort, making it a staple in my kitchen. I learned that using fresh spinach instead of frozen gives a vibrant color and crunch that really enhances the overall texture of the dish.

Additionally, I love to experiment with spices. A hint of nutmeg adds a unique warmth that transforms the filling into something special. I always recommend trying different herbs or cheeses to customize it to your liking; each variation brings its own charm!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy, cheesy filling with a hint of freshness from the spinach
Flaky, golden pastry that adds a delightful crunch
Versatile enough to serve as a main dish or a delightful appetizer

Understanding the Pastry

The pastry for this Cottage Cheese & Spinach Pastry is crucial to its success. Aim for a flaky texture that complements the creamy filling. Using chilled butter is essential, as it creates steam pockets during baking, resulting in a light and airy pastry. I recommend cutting the butter into the flour using a pastry cutter or your fingertips to help maintain its cold temperature until it goes into the oven.

If you're short on time, you can use store-bought puff pastry as an alternative, but keep in mind that the flavor and texture may differ slightly. Roll it out to fit your baking dish and proceed with the filling as instructed. Just ensure to keep an eye on the baking time, as puff pastry typically bakes faster than a homemade version.

Secrets to a Flavorful Filling

The filling is where the magic happens, with cottage cheese providing a creamy base that pairs beautifully with the earthy spinach. Make sure to use fresh spinach; its vibrant flavor enhances the dish. For a bolder taste, consider adding sautéed garlic or chopped onions to the filling mixture. Sautéing the spinach before adding it will also release some moisture, preventing the filling from becoming too watery.

If you're looking to adjust for dietary needs, using ricotta cheese in place of cottage cheese can add a different creamy richness. For a vegan option, try tofu blended with nutritional yeast and seasonings, though this will change the flavor profile significantly. Just remember to adjust the seasoning accordingly.

Ingredients

For the Pastry

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

For the Filling

1 cup cottage cheese
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg, beaten
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Pastry

In a bowl, mix flour and salt. Add chilled butter and rub into the flour until mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Gradually add cold water to form a dough. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Make the Filling

In a large bowl, combine cottage cheese, chopped spinach, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Assemble the Pastry

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the pastry on a floured surface to fit your baking dish. Place the filling on the pastry, then fold and seal the edges. Cut a few slits on top for steam to escape.

Bake

Brush the top with egg wash. Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding sautéed onions or garlic to the filling. Also, using different herbs like dill or basil can elevate the taste to your preference.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This pastry can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for busy days. You can prepare the pastry and filling separately, and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day. When you're ready to bake, assemble the pastry and enjoy fresh baked goodness. Unbaked, the assembled pastry can also be wrapped tightly and frozen for up to a month. Just remember to adjust the baking time if baking from frozen—add an extra 10-15 minutes.

After baking, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes to restore the pastry's flakiness. Microwave reheating can make the pastry soggy, so I recommend avoiding that method.

Serving Suggestions

Cottage Cheese & Spinach Pastry makes a versatile dish suitable for various occasions. For a cozy family dinner, serve it alongside a simple salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. If you're using this as an appetizer, consider cutting it into small squares and serving with a dipping sauce, like a tangy yogurt or tzatziki, for an extra layer of flavor.

You can also variations by adding herbs such as dill or basil into the filling for an additional burst of flavor. Adding chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives can introduce a Mediterranean twist that may delight your guests. Experimenting with spices like paprika or red pepper flakes can also elevate the dish to suit your palate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain any excess water to avoid making the filling soggy.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the pastry and filling a day in advance, then assemble and bake it when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with this pastry?

A simple green salad or a side of tomato soup pairs wonderfully with this pastry.