Cheesy Puff Pastry Twists with Tomato and Herbs are a delightful and easy-to-make snack or appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. These golden, crispy twists are filled with a rich tomato paste, aromatic oregano, and melty cheese, making them an irresistible treat for both kids and adults. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a movie night, or just craving something savory and cheesy, these twists are sure to impress. Plus, they’re made with puff pastry, so they’re light, flaky, and incredibly satisfying.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- Puff pastry: 300 g (11 oz), divided into 3 sheets
- Tomato paste: 40 g (1.4 oz)
- Oregano (dried or fresh): 10 g (0.4 oz)
- Cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or your choice): 150 g (5.3 oz), grated
- Parsley (fresh, chopped): 20 g (0.7 oz)
- Egg: 1 pc (for egg wash)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (390°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. - Roll Out the Puff Pastry:
If you’re using store-bought puff pastry, ensure it’s fully thawed if it was frozen. Roll out the pastry on a lightly floured surface to about 2-3 mm thickness. You can use 3 individual sheets or divide your dough into 3 parts to roll it out evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Spread Tomato Paste:
Using a spoon or spatula, evenly spread a thin layer of tomato paste over the surface of each puff pastry sheet. - Season with Oregano and Cheese:
Sprinkle dried or fresh oregano over the tomato paste, ensuring you cover the entire surface. Then, evenly distribute the grated cheese over each sheet of pastry. - Add Fresh Parsley:
Sprinkle the chopped parsley on top of the cheese for added freshness and flavor.
Step 3: Form the Twists
- Cut into Strips:
Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut each sheet of puff pastry into strips about 2 cm wide. You should get about 10-12 strips from each sheet, depending on how wide you cut them. - Twist the Strips:
Gently hold each strip at both ends and twist it several times to form a spiral shape. Lay the twisted strips on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one.
Step 4: Egg Wash and Bake
- Prepare the Egg Wash:
In a small bowl, beat the egg lightly with a fork. Use a pastry brush to coat the top of each twist with the egg wash. This will help the twists achieve a beautiful golden color as they bake. - Bake the Twists:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the twists are puffed up and golden brown. The cheese should be melted, and the pastry should be flaky and crispy. - Cool and Serve:
Remove the twists from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving. They are best enjoyed warm but are also delicious at room temperature.
Cooking Tips:
- Make it Spicy: If you like a little heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over the tomato paste before adding the cheese.
- Experiment with Fillings: You can switch up the fillings based on your preference. Try adding olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or even different herbs like basil or thyme.
- Use Different Cheeses: While mozzarella and cheddar work great, you can experiment with gouda, parmesan, or even feta for a more unique flavor.
- Keep the Puff Pastry Cold: Puff pastry works best when it’s cold. If it becomes too warm while you’re working with it, pop it in the fridge for a few minutes before continuing to prevent it from becoming sticky.
Storage:
- Refrigeration:
Store any leftover twists in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 5 minutes to restore their crispiness. - Freezing:
You can freeze the unbaked twists on a baking sheet and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag once frozen. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 5 minutes to the baking time.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
FAQs:
- Can I make these twists ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the twists and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze them and bake from frozen. - What type of puff pastry should I use?
You can use either store-bought or homemade puff pastry for this recipe. Both will work well, but store-bought puff pastry makes the process quicker and easier. - Can I add meat to these twists?
Absolutely! You can add thin slices of ham, prosciutto, or even pepperoni to the tomato paste layer for a meaty twist. - How can I make these twists vegan?
To make these twists vegan, use a vegan puff pastry (many store-bought brands are vegan), vegan cheese, and replace the egg wash with a plant-based milk or oil wash. - What should I serve these twists with?
These twists are great on their own but also pair well with marinara sauce, pesto, or a simple garlic dip.
Conclusion:
Cheesy Puff Pastry Twists with Tomato and Herbs are an easy, fun, and delicious appetizer or snack that’s perfect for any occasion. The crispy puff pastry, combined with savory tomato paste, melted cheese, and fragrant herbs, creates a flavorful and satisfying treat. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is a great way to impress guests or enjoy a tasty homemade snack. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a family gathering, or just indulging yourself, these twists are sure to be a hit!