Introduction
If you're looking for a scrumptious snack or a crowd-pleasing appetiser, sausage and spinach pinwheels are a perfect choice. These bite-sized treats are not only incredibly tasty but also simple to make, especially with the use of an air fryer. In this article, we’ll guide you through the entire process, detailing each step to ensure your pinwheels turn out spectacularly. Whether you're an air fryer novice or a seasoned cook, this recipe combines convenience with the delightful crunch of golden brown pastry.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (preferably ready-rolled)
- 250g of good quality sausages (removed from their casings)
- 100g fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- 50g cream cheese
- 1 egg, beaten (for glazing)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by preheating your air fryer to 180°C. As it heats, work on the filling. In a medium pan over medium heat, cook the minced garlic until fragrant. Add the spinach and cook until wilted, approximately 2-3 minutes. Transfer this mixture to a bowl and let it cool slightly.
Step 2: Assemble the Filling
To the cooled spinach and garlic, add the sausage meat and cream cheese. Ensure everything is well combined. Season the mixture with salt and pepper according to your preference. This forms the savoury core of your pinwheels and should be evenly mixed to ensure consistency in each bite.
Step 3: Roll the Pastry
Unroll the puff pastry onto a flat, floured surface. Spread the sausage and spinach filling evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1cm border along one edge. Carefully roll the pastry sheet from one edge to the opposite clean edge to form a log shape, pressing the clear border down to seal the roll.
Step 4: Slice and Glaze
Carefully cut the roll into slices about 1-1.5cm thick. You should end up with approximately 12-15 pinwheels depending on the size of your pastry sheet. Place these pinwheels flat, with cut sides up, on a plate or tray. Use a brush to apply the beaten egg over the tops and sides of each pinwheel for a golden finish.
Step 5: Air Frying
Line your air fryer basket with baking paper to prevent sticking. Arrange the pinwheels in the basket, ensuring there is space between each one to allow even cooking. Air fry the pinwheels in batches for 10-12 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffed. Be sure to check them halfway through the cooking time to ensure they are not overbrowning.
Serving Suggestions
Once cooked, allow the pinwheels to cool for a few minutes before serving. These are perfect as an appetiser for parties or a delicious snack. They pair well with a side of mustard or a light salad.
Conclusion
With just a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation, these sausage and spinach pinwheels offer a flavour-packed bite that highlights the versatility of the air fryer. Enjoy them fresh and hot, or prepare them in advance and reheat when needed. Happy cooking!