What pastry works best for these bites?

Puff pastry is ideal as it crisps up nicely and creates a flaky texture that complements the creamy filling well.

Can I substitute spinach with other greens?

Yes, baby kale or arugula make excellent alternatives and can add a slightly different flavor profile to the filling.

Cut puff pastry into squares, place filling in the center, then fold each corner toward the middle and pinch to seal, forming a clover-like shape.

Garnish each baked bite with a fresh basil leaf, which resembles a clover and adds a vibrant green touch.

Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and puffed.

Yes, with no meat ingredients, they are a flavorful vegetarian option using spinach, cheese, and herbs.

Festive, bite-sized snacks featuring a creamy spinach and cheese filling wrapped in golden pastry, perfect for celebrating St. Patricks Day.

This recipe quickly became a favorite at our St. Patricks Day gatherings for its delicious filling and charming presentation.

Filling: 100 g fresh spinach, chopped, 125 g cream cheese, softened, 60 g shredded cheddar cheese, 1 garlic clove, minced, 1/4 tsp salt, 1/8 tsp black pepper
Pastry: 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed (about 250 g), 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Decoration: 24 small fresh basil leaves (for clover effect)

Step 1:: Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2:: In a pan over medium heat, wilt the spinach for 1 minute, then squeeze out excess moisture and cool slightly.
Step 3:: In a bowl, mix the spinach, cream cheese, cheddar, garlic, salt, and pepper until fully combined.
Step 4:: Unroll the puff pastry and cut into 24 equal squares (about 5 x 5 cm each).
Step 5:: Place 1 heaping teaspoon of the filling in the center of each square.
Step 6:: Fold the corners of each square towards the center, pinching to seal and form a four-leaf clover shape.
Step 7:: Brush the tops with beaten egg.
Step 8:: Bake for 15–18 minutes or until the pastry is golden and puffed.
Step 9:: Remove from the oven and immediately garnish each bite with a fresh basil leaf clover on top.
Step 10:: Let cool slightly before serving.

These bites bring back memories of family celebrations filled with laughter and joy as everyone reaches for their favorite clover-shaped snack.

Pair these bites with a cold Irish lager or sparkling water with lime for a refreshing complement.

Ensure the spinach is well drained to prevent soggy pastry and use fresh basil leaves to enhance the clover effect.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheat in the oven to retain crispness.

Enjoy these festive bites as a delightful addition to your St Patricks Day celebrations!

→ What pastry works best for these bites?: Puff pastry is ideal as it crisps up nicely and creates a flaky texture that complements the creamy filling well.
→ Can I substitute spinach with other greens?: Yes, baby kale or arugula make excellent alternatives and can add a slightly different flavor profile to the filling.
→ How do I achieve the four-leaf clover shape?: Cut puff pastry into squares, place filling in the center, then fold each corner toward the middle and pinch to seal, forming a clover-like shape.
→ What is the best way to add color on top?: Garnish each baked bite with a fresh basil leaf, which resembles a clover and adds a vibrant green touch.
→ How long should these bites be baked?: Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and puffed.
→ Are these bites suitable for vegetarians?: Yes, with no meat ingredients, they are a flavorful vegetarian option using spinach, cheese, and herbs.