Mini Cheese and Spinach Empanadas: Easy and Delicious Party Appetizer

If you're looking for an easy and delicious appetizer for the holidays, mini aged cheese and spinach empanadas are the perfect choice. These empanadas are an irresistible bite that combines the creaminess of aged cheese with the freshness of spinach, and they are ideal for surprising your guests at Christmas, New Year's, or any special occasion!

Aged cheese is a versatile and flavorful ingredient, ideal for appetizers and main courses. In this recipe, we combine it with fresh spinach to create a delicious and healthy filling. Are you up for making them?

Why choose aged cheese in your festive recipes?

Aged cheese is one of the most prominent ingredients in Spanish gastronomy, with a unique flavor and a perfect texture for hot and cold dishes. Its slightly salty taste and versatility make it the perfect star for many recipes, such as empanadas.

Ingredients for Mini Cheese and Spinach Empanadas

• 1 sheet of puff pastry (preferably ready-to-bake dough)
• 200 g of grated aged cheese (you can use aged or semi-aged cheese according to your preference)
• 200 g of fresh spinach (you can substitute with frozen spinach, but remember to thaw it well and drain excess water)
• 1 clove of garlic finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 egg (for brushing the empanadas)
• 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika (optional, to give an extra touch of flavor and color)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparing Mini Empanadas

Step 1: Prepare the spinach

Wash fresh spinach well under cold water and drain. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute until the garlic releases its aroma. Then, add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Mix the spinach with Manchego cheese

Drain the spinach well to remove excess water. In a large bowl, mix the spinach with the grated cheese. If you like, you can add a pinch of sweet paprika for a touch of color and flavor.

Step 3: Form the empanadas

Roll out the puff pastry on a flat surface. With a cookie cutter or a glass, cut out circles of dough approximately 7 cm in diameter. Place a teaspoon of the spinach and cheese filling in the center of each dough circle.

Close the empanadas by folding the dough in half and press the edges with a fork to seal them well.

Step 4: Bake the empanadas

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush each empanada with the beaten egg to achieve a golden and shiny finish.

Bake the empanadas for 15-20 minutes or until golden and crispy.

Step 5: Serve and enjoy

Let the empanadas cool slightly before serving. And that's it! You now have delicious mini aged cheese and spinach empanadas to surprise your guests.

Tips to Improve Your Cheese and Spinach Empanada Recipe

1. Variety of cheeses: If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can combine aged cheese and even a little cream cheese for a softer touch.

2. Add other ingredients: You can enrich the filling by adding caramelized onion, pine nuts, or even a little Serrano ham for an extra flavor.

3. Make homemade dough: If you prefer to make the puff pastry yourself, look for a homemade puff pastry recipe. However, store-bought dough is perfect for saving time without sacrificing flavor.

4. Advance preparation: You can prepare the empanadas the day before, store them in the refrigerator, and bake them just before serving. This will save you time during the party.

What to serve with Cheese and Spinach Empanadas?

These mini empanadas are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with a light yogurt sauce with fresh herbs or a tomato jam for a sweet and contrasting touch.

If you are hosting a party, combine them with other appetizers such as cheese and Serrano ham skewers, a cheese board, or cheese and guacamole dip. This way you'll have a varied and delicious feast!