Tuscan Splendor Spinach Braid

Experience a burst of Mediterranean-inspired flavors with the Tuscan Splendor Spinach Braid, a stunning centerpiece for any meal. This golden, flaky puff pastry is filled with a luscious mixture of fresh spinach, creamy ricotta, melty mozzarella, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and a hint of garlic. The braid’s braided appearance not only makes it visually impressive but also ensures even baking and an exquisite texture in every bite. Perfect for brunch, a casual dinner, or even entertaining guests, this recipe is as easy to make as it is elegant. With a prep time of just 20 minutes and minimal ingredients, this spinach braid is the ultimate quick, gourmet option that captures the essence of Tuscan cuisine.

Nutriscore Rating: 57/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 sheet puff pastry sheet
• 4 cups fresh spinach
• 0.25 cup sun-dried tomatoes
• 0.5 cup ricotta cheese
• 0.5 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 0.25 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.25 cup all-purpose flour (for dusting)

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Step 3

Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 4

Chop the sun-dried tomatoes into small pieces and add them to a mixing bowl.

Step 5

Once the spinach is cool enough to handle, squeeze out any excess moisture and roughly chop it. Add it to the mixing bowl with the sun-dried tomatoes.

Step 6

Stir the ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper into the spinach mixture until well combined.

Step 7

Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the puff pastry sheet into a rough rectangle, about 12x10 inches.

Step 8

Transfer the puff pastry to the prepared baking sheet and spoon the spinach mixture down the center third of the pastry, leaving about 2 inches empty on both short ends and an unfilled border on either side.

Step 9

Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut diagonal strips (about 1 inch apart) along the sides of the pastry, from the edge of the filling to the edge of the pastry.

Step 10

Fold the top and bottom edges over the filling, then alternately fold the diagonal strips over the filling to create a braided effect.

Step 11

Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush it over the pastry to give it a glossy finish.

Step 12

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.

Step 13

Remove the braid from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	711.6 grams (711.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2357

Total Fat 155.30g	199%
Saturated Fat 49.00g	245%
Polyunsaturated Fat 3.20g
Cholesterol 332mg	111%
Sodium 2856mg	124%
Total Carbohydrate 173.10g	63%
Dietary Fiber 11.50g	41%
Total Sugars 10.10g
Protein 69.30g	139%

Vitamin D 48IU	240%
Calcium 1328mg	102%
Iron 15mg	83%
Potassium 990mg	21%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 59.0%

Protein: 11.7%

Carbs: 29.2%