variation that incorporates sun-dried tomatoes and feta cheese for a Mediterranean flair

Ingredients

• For the pastry:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2/3 cup butter, chilled and cubed
  • 4-6 tbsp cold water
• For the filling:
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 lb ground lamb or beef
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh spinach, roughly chopped (optional)
• Egg wash:
  • 1 egg, beaten with 1 tbsp water

Instructions

1. Prepare the pastry:
   • In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Add cubed butter and rub into the flour using your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
   • Gradually add cold water, stirring with a fork until the dough holds together.
   • Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes.
2. Make the filling:
   • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and sauté until softened.
   • Add ground meat, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned.
   • Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, oregano, and season with salt and pepper. Add spinach if using and cook until wilted. Let the filling cool.
3. Assemble the turnovers:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick. Cut into 6-inch squares or circles.
   • Place a spoonful of the filling on one half of each square. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or rectangle, pressing the edges to seal.
   • Crimp the edges with a fork and make small slits on the top to let steam escape.
4. Bake the turnovers:
   • Place the turnovers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush with egg wash.
   • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
5. Serving:
   • Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley if desired.

These turnovers are great for a dinner party or as a special weekend treat. The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and feta offers a tasty twist on the traditional savory turnover. Enjoy your cooking!