Hosting a party or meeting calls for appetizers that are both delectable and easy to prepare. Puff pastry offers a versatile base for creating a variety of bite-sized snacks that are sure to impress your guests. Below are two simple yet flavorful recipes: Tomato Squares and Cheese & Salami Squares.
Tomato Squares
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce
- Olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Oregano, to taste
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
- Poppy seeds
Instructions:
- Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface to smooth any creases.
- Assemble the Squares:
- Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce evenly over the puff pastry.
- Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the sauce.
- Sprinkle salt and oregano to taste.
- Generously sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the seasoned sauce.
- Cut the prepared puff pastry into small squares, approximately 2 inches (5 cm) on each side.
- Bake:
- Place the squares on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Sprinkle poppy seeds over the top of each square.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
- Arrange on a platter and serve warm or at room temperature.
Cheese & Salami Squares
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry
- 70 grams of cheese (such as mozzarella or cheddar), grated
- Thinly sliced salami
- Sesame seeds
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
- Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface to smooth any creases.
- Assemble the Squares:
- Evenly distribute the grated cheese over the puff pastry.
- Place the salami slices over the cheese, covering the surface.
- Cut the prepared puff pastry into small squares, approximately 2 inches (5 cm) on each side.
- Prepare the Egg Wash:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and olive oil until well combined.
- Bake:
- Place the squares on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush the top of each square with the egg wash.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top of each square.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
- Arrange on a platter and serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips for Success:
- Thawing Puff Pastry: If using frozen puff pastry, ensure it is fully thawed in the refrigerator before use to prevent cracking when unrolled.
- Preventing Sogginess: Avoid overloading the pastry with sauce or toppings to maintain a crisp texture.
- Customization: Feel free to experiment with different toppings, such as adding sautéed mushrooms, olives, or different types of cheese to suit your preferences.
These puff pastry appetizers are not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor, making them a hit at any gathering. Their ease of preparation allows you to focus on enjoying the event while providing your guests with delightful snacks.
For more inspiration on easy and savory appetizers perfect for parties, you might find this video helpful: