These Cheese and Tomato Puff Pastry Snacks are a perfect bite-sized treat that combines the richness of cheese, the tanginess of tomato paste, and the freshness of parsley, all wrapped in crispy, flaky puff pastry. They’re quick to prepare and make a great snack or appetizer for any occasion. With minimal ingredients and easy steps, you can create these savory snacks in no time, and they’re sure to be a hit with everyone!
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Baking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Ingredients
- 300 g (11 oz) puff pastry, thawed if frozen (3 sheets)
- 40 g (1.4 oz) tomato paste
- 10 g (0.4 oz) oregano
- 150 g (5.3 oz) cheese, grated
- 20 g (0.7 oz) parsley, finely chopped
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Puff Pastry
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- If using frozen puff pastry, thaw it first.
- Roll out the 300 g of puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Filling
- In a small bowl, mix 40 g of tomato paste with 10 g of oregano to combine the flavors.
- Grate 150 g of cheese and finely chop 20 g of parsley.
3. Assemble the Snack
- Spread the tomato paste mixture evenly over the rolled-out puff pastry.
- Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly over the tomato paste.
- Add the chopped parsley over the cheese to add a fresh flavor.
4. Roll and Cut the Pastry
- Gently roll the puff pastry from one end to the other, creating a tight log or cylinder.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the rolled pastry into even slices, about 1 cm (0.4 inches) thick.
5. Prepare for Baking
- Place the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Beat 1 egg and brush the top of each slice with the egg wash for a golden, shiny finish.
6. Bake the Snacks
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and crispy.
7. Serve
- Remove from the oven and let the snacks cool slightly before serving. Enjoy while warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
These puff pastry snacks are perfect on their own, but they also pair well with a light dipping sauce such as marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli. They’re great for serving at parties, with drinks, or as an afternoon snack. You can also enjoy them alongside a fresh salad or a bowl of soup for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Snacks
- Even Slices: When cutting the rolled puff pastry, try to make even slices to ensure that each snack bakes evenly.
- Creative Fillings: Feel free to get creative with the filling! You can add sliced olives, roasted red peppers, or even a little bit of cooked spinach for variety.
- Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overfill the pastry as it may become difficult to roll, and the filling could spill out during baking.
- Brush the Edges: Be sure to brush the edges of the pastry with the egg wash too, so they turn golden and crisp up beautifully.
Variations to Try
- Ham and Cheese Pastries: Add a slice of ham to the filling for a ham and cheese variation.
- Spicy Snack: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a bit of hot sauce to the tomato paste mixture for a spicy kick.
- Herb Variations: Instead of parsley, try using basil, thyme, or oregano for different flavor profiles.
- Cheese Variety: Use different types of cheese such as mozzarella, cheddar, or feta for a variety of textures and flavors.
Nutritional Benefits
- Puff Pastry: Contains healthy fats and carbohydrates, providing energy.
- Tomato Paste: A good source of vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants, which support skin health and immunity.
- Cheese: A great source of calcium and protein, contributing to bone health and muscle repair.
- Parsley: Rich in vitamin K, vitamin C, and antioxidants, parsley helps with immune support and digestion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Cheese and Tomato Puff Pastry Snacks are a perfect balance of savory, cheesy goodness and the fresh burst of herbs. The crispy, flaky texture makes every bite satisfying, while the simple ingredients make it easy to whip up. Whether you’re serving them for a party, a family gathering, or just a quick snack, these savory treats are sure to be a hit!
5 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
-
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rolls and store them in the fridge for up to 1 day before baking. Simply bake them when you’re ready to serve. -
Can I freeze these snacks?
Yes, you can freeze the rolled and cut pastries before baking. Once frozen, store them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. -
Can I add more vegetables to the filling?
Yes, feel free to add finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the filling for added flavor and nutrition. -
What type of cheese works best?
A mix of mozzarella and cheddar works well, as mozzarella melts beautifully and cheddar adds a nice sharpness. You can also use feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist. -
Can I use puff pastry from the store?
Yes, store-bought puff pastry is a convenient option and works perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure it is thawed before using it.