Spinach, Herb & Bacon Puff Parcals

Imagine the rich creaminess of melted cheeses blended with tender spinach and fragrant herbs, all enfolded in a golden, flaky puff pastry parcel—and crowned by crisp, savory bacon. These Spinach, Herb & Bacon Puff Parcels deliver an irresistible blend of textures and flavors: silky spinach, bright dill, pungent garlic, tangy feta, and buttery pastry come together in every bite. Elegant enough for entertaining yet simple enough for a weeknight appetizer, they’re destined to become a party favorite and family staple alike.

Cooking Time

Preparation: 30 minutes
Assembly & Chilling: 15 minutes
Baking: 20–22 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 7 minutes

Ingredients

• 200 g fresh spinach, rinsed and stems removed

• 3–4 Tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped

• 1 shallot, finely minced (about 40 g)

• 3 large garlic cloves, crushed

• 1 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

• 113 g full-fat cream cheese, softened

• 120 g crumbled feta cheese

• 50 g grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra savory depth)

• 1 large egg yolk

• 3 slices bacon, cooked until crisp and finely chopped

• 1 (275 g) sheet store-bought puff pastry, thawed

• 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

1. Sauté Aromatics
   Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the minced shallot and sauté for 2 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the crushed garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

2. Wilt the Spinach
   Add the chopped spinach to the skillet, season lightly with salt, and stir until the leaves collapse and release most of their moisture, about 2–3 minutes. Remove from heat.

3. Incorporate Herbs
   Stir the chopped dill into the warm spinach and allow it to cool for 5 minutes, preserving the herb’s fresh flavor.

4. Prepare Cheese Filling
   In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, crumbled feta, and (if using) Parmesan. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, then stir in the egg yolk until smooth. Fold in the cooled spinach-herb mixture and cooked bacon bits.

5. Cut and Shape Pastry
   Preheat your oven to 200 °C (400 °F). Unfold the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Cut into 9 equal squares (approx. 9 × 9 cm each).

6. Fill Parcels
   Place each square on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spoon about 2 Tbsp of filling into the center of each square.

7. Seal and Chill
   Brush two adjacent edges of each square with beaten egg. Fold into a “trumpet” or triangular shape, pressing firmly to seal. Crimp edges with a fork to secure. Chill the parcels, uncovered, in the refrigerator for 10 minutes—cold pastry puffs more reliably.

8. Egg Wash & Bake
   Brush each parcel generously with the beaten egg. Bake on the middle rack for 20–22 minutes, rotating once halfway through, until golden-brown and puffed.

9. Cool & Serve
   Transfer parcels to a wire rack and let rest 5 minutes before serving—this ensures the filling sets slightly and prevents burns.

Nutritional Information (per parcel)

• Calories: 220 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 18 g

• Protein: 6 g

• Fat: 15 g

• Saturated Fat: 7 g

• Fiber: 1 g

• Sugar: 1 g

• Sodium: 380 mg

The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe

Puff pastry—thought to have roots in 17th-century French pâtisseries—has long been prized for its dramatic rise and delicate layers. Spinach-filled pastries, such as the Greek spanakopita, date back centuries as portable, savory pies. Combining cheeses like feta and cream cheese adds a rich American twist, while crisp bacon modernizes the filling. Over the last decade, bite-sized puff pastry parcels have taken the appetizer world by storm for their elegance and ease, appearing on menus from upscale bistros to casual cocktail parties.

Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe

• Effortless Elegance: Store-bought pastry cuts prep time without sacrificing sophistication.

• Flavor Harmony: Creamy cheeses, garlicky greens, bright dill, and smoky bacon create a layered taste experience.

• Versatile Application: Serve warm as an appetizer, pack chilled for picnics, or enjoy at brunch.

• Make-Ahead Convenience: Assemble and refrigerate prior to baking for stress-free entertaining.

Health Benefits

• Spinach: Rich in vitamins A, C, K, iron, and folate.

• Dill & Garlic: Provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds.

• Eggs & Cheese: Offer high-quality protein and calcium.

• Olive Oil: Source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.

Serving Suggestions

• Accompany with a tangy yogurt-and-cucumber dip (tzatziki) or garlic-herb aioli.

• Present alongside a vibrant Mediterranean salad of tomatoes, olives, and cucumbers.

• Pair with a crisp white wine (Sauvignon Blanc) or a hoppy pale ale to balance richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overheating Garlic: Crushed garlic burns rapidly—add it last and watch carefully.

• Skipping Chill Time: Warm pastry won’t puff correctly; always refrigerate before baking.

• Overfilling Parcels: Excess moisture or filling can cause seams to burst.

• Insufficient Sealing: Press edges firmly and crimp well to prevent leakage.

Pairing Recommendations

• Wine: A bright, acidic rosé or unoaked Chardonnay.

• Beer: Belgian witbier or light lager cleanses the palate.

• Non-Alcoholic: Sparkling water with a lemon twist or iced green tea.

Cooking Tips

• Uniform Chopping: Evenly chop spinach and herbs so each parcel bakes consistently.

• Pastry Handling: Minimize handling to keep butter cold and ensure flakiness.

• Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of nutmeg or pinch of chili flakes to the filling for warmth.

• Cheese Variations: Swap feta for goat cheese or add a bit of blue cheese for tang.

Similar Recipes to Try

• Mushroom & Gruyère Puff Pockets

• Goat Cheese & Caramelized Onion Tartlets

• Ham & Cheese Croissants

Variations to Try

• Vegetarian: Omit bacon; add sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers.

• Vegan: Use vegan cream cheese, omit egg yolk, and replace egg wash with plant milk glaze.

• Spicy: Fold in chopped jalapeño or red pepper flakes.

• Herb Twist: Swap dill for fresh thyme, tarragon, or chives.

Ingredient Spotlight

Fresh Dill
Externally feathery yet internally vibrant, dill imparts a citrus-like brightness and subtle anise notes. Packed with vitamins A and C and antioxidants, it enhances both flavor and nutritional profile when added just before finishing the spinach.

Conclusion

These Spinach, Herb & Bacon Puff Parcels prove that gourmet appetizers needn’t be complicated. With minimal prep and maximum impact, they deliver flaky pastry, savory filling, and an elegant presentation. Make a batch for your next gathering or treat yourself to a cozy evening snack—either way, these parcels will disappear fast, leaving you craving more.

FAQ

1. Can I freeze the assembled parcels before baking?
   Yes—flash-freeze on the baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 3–5 minutes.

2. How do I reheat leftovers?
   Warm in a 180 °C oven for 5–7 minutes to crisp the pastry.

3. Can I use baby spinach or frozen spinach?
   Baby spinach is fine; reduce cooking time. For frozen, thaw completely and squeeze out excess water.

4. What’s the best substitute for cream cheese?
   Mascarpone or ricotta work well for a milder creaminess.

5. Why did my pastry not puff up?
   Likely the pastry was too warm; always chill before baking.

6. How can I make it dairy-free?
   Use dairy-free cream cheese, omit Parmesan, and choose a vegan puff pastry.

7. Is it safe to add extra garlic?
   Yes, but avoid burning by adding garlic just before spinach wilts.

8. Can I prep filling a day ahead?
   Absolutely—store in an airtight container overnight and assemble just before baking.

9. How do I prevent soggy bottoms?
   Bake on a preheated baking sheet or pizza stone to start the pastry cooking immediately.

10. What’s a good appetizer platter pairing?
    Include marinated olives, roasted nuts, crudités, and hummus for variety.