The Crispy, Cheesy Spinach Twist You’ll Pin Tonight
On busy weeknights, I crave something that feels special but comes together fast. These Parmesan and Spinach Cheese Twists hit that sweet spot: flaky pastry, garlicky greens, and a kiss of salty parmesan in every bite. They’re the kind of snack that disappears the moment you set them on the table—perfect for after-school munchies, game nights, or a quick party appetizer.
Made with a simple puff pastry base and a spinach-cream cheese filling, they bake up golden and crisp in minutes. The aroma of garlic and parmesan browning in the oven is basically a hug in a bite, and the twists look beautiful on a serving platter or a Pinterest-worthy tray for friends and family.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed and kept cold — Puff pastry gives you that irresistible flaky bite; keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to roll. If you’re using two sheets, you can multiply the filling accordingly.
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped — Sautéed spinach adds vibrant color and flavor without making the pastry soggy; if using frozen, thaw and squeeze dry first.
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese — A sharp, salty kick that season the filling from the inside out; grate fresh for best flavor.
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened — Helps bind the filling and adds creaminess; substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- 1 garlic clove, minced — A quick aromatic punch that mingles with the cheese and spinach.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil — Used to sauté the spinach; you can also use a tiny pat of butter for extra richness.
- 1 large egg, beaten — For the glue that helps seal and a glossy finish on the twists; you can mix with 1 tablespoon water for a lighter wash.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper — To season the filling; adjust to taste.
- Optional additions: 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella or fontina for extra melt; crushed red pepper flakes for a warm kick; sesame seeds or flaky salt for finishing.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment for easy cleanup and crisp edges.
- Make the filling: In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over medium. Add the minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook just until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool briefly, then stir in the cream cheese and Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper. If you’re adding mozzarella, fold it in now until just melted.
- Roll the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a rectangle about 12×9 inches. Spread the spinach mixture in a long, narrow band down the center of the sheet, leaving about a 1-inch border on all sides.
- Fold the pastry over the filling from both sides to meet in the center, sealing along the edge. Lightly press to ensure the seam sticks. Brush the top with the beaten egg wash.
- Cut the folded sheet into 1-inch-wide strips along the length. Gently twist each strip a few times to create the classic twist shape and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them so they have room to puff.
- Brush the twists with the remaining egg wash and, if desired, sprinkle with extra parmesan or decorative sesame seeds. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and deeply golden around the edges.
- Cool on the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. They’re best warm, with a bit of crisp on the outside and a gooey, cheesy center.
Tips & Variations
- Make-ahead: Assemble the twists and refrigerate unbaked for up to 24 hours. Bake directly from the fridge, adding 2–3 minutes to the bake time.
- Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free puff pastry, and check that any add-ins (like sausage or sun-dried tomatoes) are gluten-free as well.
- Dairy-free option: Use dairy-free puff pastry and a dairy-free cream cheese substitute; nutritional yeast can add a cheesy note if you skip the cheese entirely.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the filling for a subtle heat.
- Flavor boosters: Mix in sun-dried tomatoes, chopped olives, or minced artichoke hearts for a Mediterranean twist.
- Texture tips: To keep them extra crisp, bake on a preheated sheet and avoid overfilling the center with moisture-heavy greens.
- Storage & reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 6–8 minutes to revive crispness; avoid the microwave if you want a flaky crust.
Serving Suggestions
Plate these warm twists with a bright green salad or a handful of cherry tomatoes to balance richness. A quick marinara or garlicky aioli makes a perfect dipping companion. For a party spread, arrange them on a board with fresh herbs and lemon wedges so guests can squeeze a touch of brightness over the top.
Make-it-a-meal idea: pair a platter of twists with a simple tomato-basil soup or a light white bean salad for a complete, cozy dinner. Garnish with extra parmesan shavings and a few torn basil leaves for color and aroma.
FAQs
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes. Use a gluten-free puff pastry and check that any add-ins are certified gluten-free. If you can’t find GF pastry, you can use phyllo sheets as a thinner alternative, but expect a lighter, crisper texture.
How do I prevent soggy pastry?
Drain and cool the spinach completely, pat dry any moisture, and avoid over-mounting the filling. Keep the pastry cold before baking and finish with an egg wash to seal the edges.
Can I make-ahead or freeze them?
Yes. You can assemble unbaked twists and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. For longer storage, freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen, adding 3–5 minutes to the bake time.
How do I reheat to stay crisp?
Warm in a 350–375°F oven for 8–12 minutes until hot and crispy. Avoid microwaving, which can soften the pastry.
Can I add protein or swap ingredients?
Absolutely. Stir in finely chopped cooked chicken or pancetta for a heartier bite, keeping the greens proportion balanced. You can also try chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
What should I serve these with?
A simple green salad, a light tomato soup, or a quick garlic aioli dip pairs beautifully. They also shine as a party appetizer with a colorful veggie platter.
Final Thoughts
These Parmesan and Spinach Cheese Twists are a dependable, crowd-pleasing snack that checks all the boxes: crunchy, cheesy, comforting, and easy to customize. They bake up in minutes and make a stunning addition to any board—perfect for saving you time on weeknights while still delivering something special. Keep a couple of sheets of puff pastry on hand, and you’ll have a quick, delicious bite ready whenever cravings strike.
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Irresistible Parmesan Spinach Twists Recipe Easy Quick
- Total Time: 0 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
Parmesan Spinach Twists quick easy cheesy bites with flaky pastry and vibrant greens perfect for parties or snacking Ideal for gatherings
Ingredients
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Instructions
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- Prep Time: 0 hours 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 hours 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking; rolling and twisting puff pastry with spinach and cheese.
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 servings
- Calories: 170 calories
- Sugar: 2 g
- Fat: 9 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g