Indulge in the flavors of a quick and nutritious delight with our Spinach and Ricotta Filo Parcels recipe. This Mediterranean-inspired dish combines the freshness of baby spinach leaves, the creaminess of ricotta cheese, and the zesty tang of lemon zest, all wrapped in delicate filo pastry. These parcels are not only a treat for your taste buds but also a breeze to prepare, taking only 10 minutes to prep and 4 minutes to cook. Perfect for a light lunch or a savory appetizer, this recipe yields 2 servings, making it an ideal choice for a cozy meal or a delightful snack.
Preparation time: 10 Minutes
Cooking time: 4 minutes
Servings: 2
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 lb. baby spinach leaves, roughly chopped
- 4 sheets filo pastry
- 1/2 lb. ricotta cheese
- 2 tbsp. pine nuts
- 1 egg, whisked
- Zest from 1 lemon, grated
- Greek yogurt for serving
- Salt and black pepper to taste
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Prepare the Spinach Mixture: In a bowl, combine the roughly chopped baby spinach leaves and ricotta cheese. Add the whisked egg, grated lemon zest, pine nuts, a dash of salt, and a sprinkle of black pepper. Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Assemble the Parcels: Lay out the filo pastry sheets on a clean working surface. Divide the prepared spinach and ricotta mixture into 4 equal portions. Place one portion of the mixture diagonally onto each filo sheet, near the corner. Fold the corner with the mixture over to create a triangular pocket, then continue folding in a triangular fashion until the entire sheet is folded into a neat parcel.
- Cook the Parcels in the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Place the folded parcels into the preheated air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook the parcels for approximately 4 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Cooking times may vary based on your air fryer model.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, carefully remove the filo parcels from the air fryer. Divide the parcels onto serving plates, presenting them with their crispy, golden exterior. Accompany the parcels with a dollop of creamy Greek yogurt on the side, offering a delightful contrast to the savory parcels.
TIPS:
- Filo Pastry Handling: Filo pastry can be delicate, so ensure it stays moist by covering it with a slightly damp kitchen towel while working to prevent it from drying out and becoming brittle.
- Air Fryer Efficiency: Air fryers vary in their cooking times, so keep an eye on the parcels as they cook to prevent over-browning or burning.
- Customize with Herbs: Enhance the flavor profile by adding fresh herbs like dill, basil, or parsley to the spinach and ricotta mixture.
- Serving Variation: While Greek yogurt pairs perfectly with these parcels, you can also serve them with a drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice for a different twist.
NUTRITION:
- Calories: 182
- Fat: 4g
- Fiber: 8g
- Carbs: 9g
- Protein: 5g
Indulge in the delightful fusion of flavors and textures with our Spinach and Ricotta Filo Parcels. The harmonious blend of fresh baby spinach, creamy ricotta cheese, and zesty lemon zest, all enveloped in crispy filo pastry, is a treat for your palate. This quick and easy recipe is not only a feast for the senses but also a source of essential nutrients. Whether enjoyed as a light meal or a savory snack, these parcels are a testament to the beauty of Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. With minimal preparation time and the convenience of the air fryer, this recipe is a must-try for those seeking a burst of flavor and a touch of elegance in their culinary repertoire.
