Spinach Artichoke Swirls Recipe

If you are craving a delightful appetizer that combines a flaky, buttery crust with a creamy, savory filling, then these Spinach Artichoke Swirls are exactly what you need. Bursting with fresh spinach, tender artichokes, and a mouthwatering cheese blend wrapped inside golden puff pastry, Spinach Artichoke Swirls are irresistibly tasty and perfect for sharing with friends or family. Whether for a casual snack or a party treat, these swirls will quickly become a favorite go-to recipe in your kitchen repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, fresh, and full of flavor, the ingredients for Spinach Artichoke Swirls come together effortlessly. Each component plays a vital role in creating that creamy texture, vibrant color, and rich taste that make this dish so memorable.

• 1 puff pastry sheet: Provides a light, flaky, and buttery base that crisps up beautifully when baked.
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped: Adds a fresh, leafy green note and vitamins, brightening the filling.
• 1/4 cup artichokes, chopped: Brings a tender, slightly tangy flavor that complements the spinach perfectly.
• 1/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese: Offers a salty, nutty bite to enrich the filling.
• 1/8 cup cream cheese, softened: Provides creamy smoothness that binds the ingredients together deliciously.
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise: Adds moisture and a subtle tang that enhances the overall texture.
• 1 garlic clove, minced: Infuses the filling with a warm, aromatic kick.
• Salt to taste: Balances and elevates all the flavors in the mix.
• Fresh cracked pepper to taste: Adds a hint of sharpness that enlivens each bite.
• Red pepper flakes to taste: Provides a gentle heat that livens up the filling without overpowering it.
• 1 egg for egg wash: Ensures a shiny, golden crust and helps keep the swirls intact during baking.

How to Make Spinach Artichoke Swirls

Step 1: Preparing Your Oven and Puff Pastry

Begin by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven reaches the perfect baking temperature, thaw one sheet of puff pastry according to the package instructions so it becomes soft enough to work with but not overly sticky.

Step 2: Mixing the Spinach Artichoke Filling

In a bowl, combine the chopped spinach, artichokes, parmesan cheese, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and freshly minced garlic. Season the mixture with salt, cracked pepper, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to your personal preference. Stir everything together until smooth and well-incorporated—this filling is the heart of your Spinach Artichoke Swirls.

Step 3: Assembling the Swirls

Cut the puff pastry sheet in half to create two rectangles. Spread the creamy spinach artichoke mixture evenly across one half, making sure to leave a small border along the edges. Carefully place the second puff pastry rectangle over the filling, creating a sandwich that will hold all the delicious goodness inside.

Step 4: Cutting and Rolling

Using a sharp knife, slice the puff pastry “sandwich” into six long strips along the length, not width. Take each strip and gently twist it to create that signature swirl shape. Roll each twisted strip into a tight spiral and tuck the ends underneath to prevent them from unraveling during baking.

Step 5: Final Touches and Baking

Beat the egg with a teaspoon of water to create an egg wash. Brush each spinach artichoke swirl generously with the egg wash to give them a beautiful golden sheen once baked. Place the swirls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure they have enough space to expand slightly. Bake at 400 degrees for about 25 minutes or until the pastry turns crisp and golden brown. Remember, ovens vary, so keep an eye out to avoid overbaking.

How to Serve Spinach Artichoke Swirls

Garnishes

Sprinkle your freshly baked Spinach Artichoke Swirls with a dusting of extra parmesan or chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor. A light drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving can also brighten up the dish beautifully.

Side Dishes

These swirls pair wonderfully with crisp, refreshing salads like a simple arugula with lemon vinaigrette or a tangy tomato and cucumber salad. If you want something a bit heartier, serving alongside warm tomato soup or a bold roasted red pepper soup can create a comforting meal experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party or special occasion, arrange the Spinach Artichoke Swirls on a large wooden board surrounded by bowls of dipping sauces such as spicy marinara, creamy ranch, or garlic aioli. Alternatively, stack them in a decorative spiral pattern on a tiered platter to make for an eye-catching centerpiece that’s as inviting as the swirls themselves.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Spinach Artichoke Swirls, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This keeps them fresh while maintaining their flaky texture and flavorful filling.

Freezing

These swirls freeze wonderfully. Place baked swirls on a baking sheet to freeze individually first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

To bring your Spinach Artichoke Swirls back to life, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 8 to 10 minutes until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving if possible to preserve that delightful flakiness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach can be used, but be sure to thaw and squeeze out as much moisture as possible before mixing to prevent the filling from becoming watery.

What can I substitute for mayonnaise?

If you prefer to avoid mayonnaise, Greek yogurt or sour cream can be great alternatives that maintain creaminess with a slightly different tang.

Can these swirls be made gluten-free?

You can use a gluten-free puff pastry to make this recipe suitable for gluten sensitivities, but be sure to follow the specific baking instructions on your puff pastry packaging.

How spicy are Spinach Artichoke Swirls?

The level of spice depends on how much red pepper flakes you add. You can adjust this to your liking, even omit it entirely if you want to keep the flavor mild and creamy.

Are Spinach Artichoke Swirls suitable for freezing raw?

It’s best to bake them first before freezing. Freezing raw puff pastry with the filling can lead to soggy textures upon baking later.

Final Thoughts

Spinach Artichoke Swirls are truly a crowd-pleaser that brings together simple ingredients in a wonderfully flavorful way. They are perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself to something special. Once you try these swirls, you’ll understand why they’re such a beloved recipe—flaky, creamy, and oh-so-delicious every single time!

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