This savory puff pastry dish combines the buttery, flaky texture of puff pastry with the richness of ham, cheese, and tomatoes, all topped off with a delicious homemade sauce. The addition of a creamy garlic sauce, seasoned with oregano, brings everything together in a mouthwatering way. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a party snack, this recipe is easy to prepare and sure to impress with its layers of flavor. The Parmesan cheese adds an extra touch of sharpness, while the fresh cucumber complements the richness of the dish.
Preparation Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
- Total time: 40-45 minutes
Ingredients:
-
For the Puff Pastry:
- 500 g puff pastry
- Mustard (to taste)
- 100 g ham
- 100 g cheese (any cheese of your choice, such as cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1-2 tomatoes, sliced
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 30 g Parmesan, grated
-
For the Sauce:
- 20-30 g oil
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 100 ml cream
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- Oregano, to taste
- Grated hard cheese (for topping)
- Fresh cucumber (for garnish)
Directions:
-
Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Roll out the puff pastry onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
- Brush a thin layer of mustard over the pastry.
- Slice the ham and cheese, then arrange them evenly on the puff pastry.
- Slice the tomatoes and layer them over the ham and cheese.
- Season with ground black pepper and sprinkle grated Parmesan over the top.
-
Make the Sauce:
- Heat 20-30 g of oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add 2 tablespoons of flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a roux.
- Slowly add 100 ml of cream, whisking until smooth.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and oregano. Let the sauce simmer and thicken for 3-4 minutes.
- Set aside.
-
Assemble the Pastry:
- Once the puff pastry is topped with ham, cheese, and tomatoes, brush the edges of the pastry with the beaten egg to give it a golden finish.
- Pour the sauce over the top of the pastry before placing it in the oven.
-
Bake:
- Bake the puff pastry in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
-
Serve:
- Once baked, remove the puff pastry from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Slice and serve with a sprinkle of grated hard cheese and fresh cucumber slices on the side for a refreshing crunch.
- Garnish with extra oregano, if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a fresh green salad or a side of roasted vegetables to complete the meal.
- Pair with a light white wine or sparkling water for a refreshing drink.
- This dish also makes an excellent appetizer for a party or gathering.
Cooking Tips:
- For extra flavor, consider adding a drizzle of balsamic vinegar or hot sauce over the finished dish.
- You can use any cheese you prefer, but a combination of soft cheese and sharp cheese (such as mozzarella and Parmesan) works especially well.
- For a crispier crust, bake the pastry on a preheated baking stone or tray.
- Feel free to customize the filling with additional vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or olives.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
The Origins and Popularity of Puff Pastry Dishes:
Puff pastry is a classic element of French cuisine, originating in France around the 17th century. The dough is made by layering butter between thin sheets of dough, then folding and rolling it to create the distinctive flaky layers when baked. Over time, puff pastry has become a staple in various cuisines worldwide, used for both savory and sweet dishes. From delicate desserts like éclairs and turnovers to hearty meals like savory pies and pastries, puff pastry has proven its versatility. This particular savory puff pastry recipe with ham, cheese, and a creamy garlic sauce is an evolution of traditional French techniques, combining rich, comforting flavors with a fresh twist. Its growing popularity in contemporary kitchens can be attributed to its ease of use and the wide range of fillings that can be customized based on personal taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
You’ll love this recipe for its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The crispy, flaky puff pastry is complemented by the creamy, savory sauce and the richness of the ham and cheese. The addition of fresh tomatoes adds a burst of juiciness, while the Parmesan gives a sharp, tangy kick. It’s an easy dish to prepare yet looks and tastes like something you’d find at a fancy bistro. Perfect for a cozy dinner, a quick lunch, or even a special gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Health Benefits of This Recipe:
- Tomatoes: A rich source of vitamins A and C, tomatoes are packed with antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which has been linked to heart health and cancer prevention.
- Olive Oil: Olive oil is known for its heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce bad cholesterol levels.
- Cheese: Provides a good source of calcium for bone health, along with protein for muscle repair and growth.
- Herbs: Oregano contains compounds that are anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial, providing an extra boost to your immune system.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with a crisp, green salad for a light meal.
- Enjoy with a side of roasted potatoes or steamed vegetables for a fuller dinner.
- Serve with a glass of white wine or a sparkling drink to complement the dish’s flavors.
Tips:
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can swap out the ham for grilled vegetables or mushrooms.
- Make ahead: You can prepare the puff pastry filling in advance and bake it later for a quick and easy dinner option.
- Use a sharp cheese like cheddar or Gruyère for an extra rich flavor.
Variations to Try:
- Mushroom and Spinach: Swap the ham for sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a lighter, vegetarian option.
- Mediterranean Style: Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
- Spicy: Include a few chili flakes or drizzle some hot sauce on top before serving for an added kick.
Conclusion:
This savory puff pastry with ham, cheese, and tomato is the perfect combination of comfort food and gourmet flavors. It’s easy to prepare yet impressive enough to serve at a dinner party. With its buttery, flaky crust, rich filling, and creamy sauce, it’s a dish that everyone will enjoy. Customize the toppings and fillings to suit your tastes, and make this recipe your own. Whether you’re serving it for a casual lunch or a special dinner, this dish will undoubtedly become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
-
Can I use store-bought puff pastry?
Yes, store-bought puff pastry works perfectly for this recipe and saves time. -
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the dish ahead of time. Simply bake it before serving. -
What other vegetables can I add?
You can add mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to the filling for extra flavor and texture. -
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
You can use gluten-free puff pastry to make this recipe gluten-free. -
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled, unbaked dish. Just bake it directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.