Shrimp Spinach Cheese Swirl
Indulge in the delightful combination of shrimp, spinach, and cheddar cheese wrapped in crispy puff pastry swirls. This appetizer is a perfect blend of savory and spicy flavors that will have everyone reaching for more. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply want a delicious snack, these Shrimp Spinach Cheese Swirls are sure to impress!
Servings: 10
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Appetizer
Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Total Time: 75 minutes (60 minutes preparation + 15 minutes cooking)
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Puff Pastry Sheet | 1 sheet |
| Whole Egg (for egg wash) | 1 egg |
| Spinach (chopped) | 1 cup |
| Shrimp (cut into small pieces) | 1/2 cup |
| Spring Onions (chopped, bulb & greens) | 4 spring onions |
| Cayenne Pepper | 1 tbsp |
| Coriander Powder (Dhania) | 1 tsp |
| Garlic Powder | 1 tsp |
| Tomato Ketchup | 1 tbsp |
| Sriracha Sauce (optional) | 1 tsp |
| Sunflower Oil | 1 tbsp |
| Cheddar Cheese (shredded) | 1 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
Instructions
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Prepare the Pastry: Begin by removing the puff pastry sheet from the freezer at least 40 minutes before preparing the recipe to allow it to thaw properly.
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Cook the Shrimp: Heat sunflower oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Add the chopped shrimp and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
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Add the Spices: Once the shrimp is cooked, add cayenne pepper, coriander powder, and garlic powder to the skillet. Stir well to combine, then add the tomato ketchup and sriracha sauce (if using). Mix everything thoroughly, allowing the flavors to meld together.
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Incorporate Vegetables: Add the chopped spring onions (both the bulb and the greens) along with the spinach to the skillet. Stir everything together until the spinach wilts and the ingredients are well combined. Season with salt to taste.
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Cool the Mixture: Turn off the heat and let the shrimp and spinach mixture cool down completely. This step is crucial before moving on to the next step to avoid the pastry becoming soggy.
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Prepare the Pastry: Beat the egg to make the egg wash. Unfold the puff pastry sheet on a clean surface and brush one side generously with the egg wash. This will help seal the pastry as it bakes.
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Fill the Pastry: Once the shrimp mixture has cooled, add the shredded cheddar cheese to it. Stir well to combine the ingredients, ensuring the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
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Assemble the Swirls: Spread the shrimp, spinach, and cheese mixture evenly over the egg-washed side of the pastry sheet. Carefully roll the pastry into a tight log, sealing the edges with a little water to prevent it from unrolling during baking.
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Cut into Swirls: Using a sharp knife, slice the rolled pastry into 1-inch thick swirls. Place the swirls on a baking tray lined with greased silver foil or parchment paper.
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Bake: Brush the top of each swirl with the remaining egg wash. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the swirls for 10-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crisp.
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Serve: Remove the swirls from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these scrumptious Shrimp Spinach Cheese Swirls with tomato chutney or any chutney of your choice for a flavorful pairing.
Tips for Perfect Swirls
- Shrimp Prep: Be sure to chop the shrimp into small pieces so they integrate well with the other ingredients and don’t overwhelm the pastry.
- Adjusting Spice Levels: You can control the spiciness of the swirls by adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper and sriracha sauce, depending on your preference.
- Freezing the Pastry: If the puff pastry becomes too soft while rolling, you can refrigerate it for a few minutes to make it easier to handle.
- Cheese Varieties: While cheddar cheese works wonderfully in this recipe, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or a sharp gouda for a different flavor profile.
This Shrimp Spinach Cheese Swirl is an excellent choice for a crowd-pleasing appetizer with a delightful mix of flavors and textures. Whether you serve it at a special occasion or as a tasty snack, it’s bound to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy this fusion of Indian-inspired spices and classic cheesy comfort!
