This recipe combines tender meat-filled puff pastry with a refreshing vegetable salad, making it a wholesome meal perfect for any occasion. The flaky puff pastry, savory filling, and crunchy salad provide a delightful contrast in textures and flavors.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients
For the Meat Filling:
- 2 eggs
- 200 g ground meat (beef, pork, or a mix)
- 30 g breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dried paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 small bunch parsley, chopped
- 100 g mozzarella cheese, shredded
For the Puff Pastry:
- 450 g puff pastry (yeast-free)
- 50 g tomato sauce
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
For the Sautéed Vegetables:
- 150 g mushrooms, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 carrot, grated
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the Salad:
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 2 boiled eggs, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
Directions
Prepare the Meat Filling:
- In a bowl, beat the eggs lightly.
- Add ground meat, breadcrumbs, salt, dried paprika, black pepper, and chopped parsley. Mix well.
- Incorporate the shredded mozzarella into the meat mixture and set aside.
Prepare the Puff Pastry:
4. Roll out the puff pastry to an even thickness.
5. Spread tomato sauce over the surface of the pastry.
6. Sprinkle minced garlic and dried oregano over the sauce.
7. Spread the meat mixture evenly on top. Roll the pastry tightly into a log and seal the edges.
Bake the Puff Pastry:
8. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
9. Place the pastry on a parchment-lined baking tray and brush lightly with vegetable oil.
10. Bake for approximately 30 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.
Sauté the Vegetables:
11. Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add mushrooms and sauté until golden brown.
12. Add onion and carrot, and cook until tender. Season with salt and pepper.
Prepare the Salad:
13. In a bowl, combine cucumber, celery, boiled eggs, salt, pepper, and mayonnaise. Mix gently.
Serve:
14. Slice the baked puff pastry and serve alongside the sautéed vegetables and salad.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a glass of chilled lemonade or iced tea for a refreshing meal.
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or roasted potatoes for extra heartiness.
Cooking Tips
- Ensure the puff pastry is fully thawed before use to avoid cracking.
- Customize the filling by adding chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or your favorite herbs.
- For extra crispiness, brush the pastry with egg wash before baking.
Nutritional Benefits
- Ground Meat: High in protein and essential minerals like iron and zinc.
- Vegetables: Provide fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
- Eggs: Excellent source of protein and healthy fats.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: No (can be modified with a meat substitute)
- Gluten-Free: No (use gluten-free puff pastry and breadcrumbs to adapt)
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze the baked puff pastry for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines a hearty main dish with a refreshing side for a complete meal.
- Simple ingredients create a gourmet feel with minimal effort.
- The flaky puff pastry and creamy salad add a balance of textures.
- Customizable to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
Conclusion
This Meat-Stuffed Puff Pastry with Vegetable Side Salad is a versatile and satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. Its easy preparation, rich flavors, and balanced nutrition make it a recipe you’ll come back to time and again. Try it today and savor the perfect harmony of savory and fresh!
FAQs
- Can I use store-bought puff pastry?
Yes, store-bought puff pastry works perfectly for this recipe. - What meat works best for the filling?
Ground beef, pork, or a combination of the two are ideal choices. - Can I make this vegetarian?
Substitute the ground meat with lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based ground meat. - How do I prevent the pastry from becoming soggy?
Ensure the filling is not too wet and drain excess liquid from the meat mixture. - Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the pastry in advance and bake just before serving. - What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes to retain crispiness. - Can I add other spices to the filling?
Absolutely! Experiment with cumin, coriander, or smoked paprika for extra flavor. - What can I use instead of mayonnaise in the salad?
Greek yogurt or a light vinaigrette are great alternatives. - Can I freeze the unbaked pastry?
Yes, freeze before baking and cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. - How do I prevent the edges of the pastry from burning?
Cover the edges with foil if they brown too quickly while baking.