These savory puff pastry bites are packed with layers of ham, salami, cheese, and a tangy mayonnaise-ketchup sauce. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or party finger food, they’re crispy on the outside and filled with cheesy, meaty goodness on the inside. Topped with sesame seeds for an extra crunch, these puff pastry bites are sure to be a hit.
Preparation Time:
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 50 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 80g mayonnaise
- 30g ketchup
- 300g cheese, grated (your choice of cheddar, gouda, etc.)
- 300g ham, sliced
- 150g Hungarian salami, sliced
- 1 tomato, thinly sliced
- 200g mozzarella, sliced
- 1 pickled cucumber, sliced
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 10g mustard
- 4g sweet paprika
- 4g sugar
- 100g mayonnaise (for sauce)
For the Puff Pastry:
- 500g puff pastry (2 sheets)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 7g white sesame seeds
- 7g black sesame seeds
- 100g extra cheese for topping
Directions:
1. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to ensure it’s smooth and ready for filling.
2. Make the Filling:
- In a small bowl, mix 80g mayonnaise and 30g ketchup to make a simple sauce.
- Spread the sauce evenly on the puff pastry sheets.
- Layer the grated cheese, ham, Hungarian salami, sliced tomatoes, mozzarella, pickled cucumbers, and onions over the puff pastry.
- Sprinkle the mustard, sweet paprika, and sugar over the top of the layered ingredients.
3. Assemble:
- Roll out the second sheet of puff pastry and place it over the filled pastry.
- Press down the edges to seal the filling inside.
- Brush the top with beaten egg and sprinkle white and black sesame seeds on top.
- Grate 100g of extra cheese and sprinkle it over the pastry for added flavor and texture.
4. Bake:
- Transfer the assembled puff pastry onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 30 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing into bite-sized squares.
- Enjoy the puff pastry bites warm with extra mayonnaise or mustard for dipping.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of pickles or dipping sauces like garlic aioli or mustard for extra flavor.
- These bites pair perfectly with a fresh salad for a light meal.
- Ideal for parties, brunch, or as an easy snack.
Cooking Tips:
- For extra crispiness, use a fork to prick small holes in the puff pastry before baking to release steam.
- To prevent the puff pastry from becoming soggy, make sure the fillings (especially tomatoes and onions) are well-drained.
- If you prefer a spicier version, add a dash of chili flakes or hot sauce to the mayonnaise-ketchup sauce.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Ham and Salami: Provide protein and flavor.
- Cheese: Rich in calcium and protein, adding creaminess to the filling.
- Tomatoes: A source of vitamins and antioxidants.
- Sesame Seeds: Add texture and healthy fats to the dish.
Dietary Information:
- Nut-Free: Safe for those with nut allergies.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the ham and salami, and add more vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free puff pastry for those with gluten sensitivities.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 12 servings):
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
Storage:
- Fridge: Store any leftover puff pastry bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-10 minutes to maintain crispiness.
- Freezer: These puff pastry bites can be frozen before or after baking. If freezing before baking, add 5-10 minutes to the cooking time when baking from frozen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Cheesy and Savory: The combination of ham, salami, and cheeses makes for a rich and satisfying filling.
- Crispy and Flaky: The puff pastry provides the perfect light and crispy contrast to the hearty filling.
- Easy to Make: With ready-made puff pastry, this recipe comes together quickly and effortlessly.
- Great for Entertaining: These bites are perfect for serving at parties, brunches, or as a fun snack.
- Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients or add extra veggies to suit your taste.
Conclusion:
These layered puff pastry bites with ham, salami, and cheese are a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The crispy, flaky pastry encases a rich, savory filling that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a party or enjoying them as a snack, these bites are sure to impress with their delicious combination of ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, feel free to use any cheese you prefer, such as cheddar, gouda, or even feta for a tangier flavor. - Can I make these puff pastry bites ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble them ahead and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just brush with egg wash before baking. - Can I freeze these bites?
Yes, you can freeze them before baking and cook them directly from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time. - Can I make a vegetarian version?
Absolutely! Simply omit the ham and salami and add extra vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. - How do I prevent the puff pastry from becoming soggy?
Be sure to drain any excess liquid from the tomatoes or other vegetables before layering them into the pastry.