Savory Puff Pastry with Bacon and Mozzarella

This savory puff pastry recipe combines the richness of bacon, the creaminess of mozzarella, and the freshness of herbs for a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Packed with vibrant flavors and textures, it’s easy to prepare yet impressive enough to wow your guests.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • Puff Pastry Base:
    • Puff pastry: 450 g
    • Egg: 1 pc (for egg wash)
  • Filling:
    • Bacon: 6 strips
    • Boiled eggs: 2 pcs, diced
    • Tomato paste: 2 tbsp
    • Olives: 25 g, sliced
    • Onion: 1 pc, finely chopped
    • Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
    • Mozzarella: 150 g, shredded
    • Greek yogurt: 3 tbsp
    • Tomatoes: 7 pcs, diced
  • Seasoning and Herbs:
    • Salt, pepper, paprika: To taste
    • Dill and green onions: 1 bunch, finely chopped

Directions

  • Prepare the Filling:
    • In a skillet, cook the bacon strips until crispy. Remove and let cool, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
    • In the same skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until translucent.
    • Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, pepper, and paprika. Simmer for 5 minutes.
    • Stir in the Greek yogurt, boiled eggs, olives, and chopped bacon. Mix well and set aside to cool.
  • Prepare the Puff Pastry:
    • Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F).
    • Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to about 0.5 cm thickness.
    • Transfer the pastry to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  • Assemble:
    • Spread the cooled filling evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a 2 cm border.
    • Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the filling.
    • Fold the edges of the puff pastry slightly inward to form a crust.
  • Bake:
    • Brush the edges of the pastry with beaten egg for a golden finish.
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.
  • Finish and Serve:
    • Garnish with chopped dill and green onions.
    • Slice and serve warm.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with a fresh green salad for a light meal.
  • Serve as an appetizer or snack with a side of Greek yogurt dip.
  • Enjoy as a brunch dish alongside scrambled eggs.

Cooking Tips

  • Use store-bought puff pastry to save time, or make your own if preferred.
  • Substitute mozzarella with feta or cheddar for a flavor twist.
  • Pre-cook the tomatoes to avoid excess moisture in the pastry.

Nutritional Benefits

  • High in protein from eggs and mozzarella.
  • Tomatoes and greens provide vitamins C and K.
  • Greek yogurt adds probiotics and a creamy texture without excess fat.

Dietary Information

  • Contains gluten and dairy.
  • Not suitable for vegetarians due to bacon.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):

  • Calories: ~320 kcal
  • Protein: ~18 g
  • Carbohydrates: ~22 g
  • Fat: ~20 g

Storage

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes to maintain crispiness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Combines the richness of bacon and cheese with the freshness of tomatoes and herbs.
  • Easy to prepare and versatile for various occasions.
  • Perfect for satisfying comfort food cravings.

Conclusion
This savory puff pastry is a delightful combination of textures and flavors, making it a standout dish for breakfast, brunch, or as a party appetizer. With its crispy base, creamy filling, and herby garnish, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Try it today and enjoy the delicious medley of ingredients!

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
    Yes, feta or cheddar would work well.
  2. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
    Omit the bacon and add more veggies like spinach or bell peppers.
  3. Can I prepare this in advance?
    Yes, assemble the pastry and refrigerate it. Bake when ready to serve.
  4. How do I prevent a soggy base?
    Pre-cook the tomato filling and drain excess liquid before assembling.
  5. Can I freeze leftovers?
    Yes, freeze baked slices in an airtight container for up to 1 month.
  6. What other herbs can I use?
    Thyme, parsley, or basil are great substitutes.
  7. How do I make this spicier?
    Add chili flakes or a diced jalapeño to the filling.
  8. Can I use puff pastry sheets instead of a roll?
    Yes, arrange sheets side by side and pinch seams to seal.
  9. What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
    Use an oven or toaster oven to maintain crispiness.
  10. Can I serve this cold?
    Yes, it tastes great both warm and cold.