Cheesy Puff Pastry Bites with Pesto and Roasted Peppers
 
Prep time
Cook time
Total time
 
Perfect cheesy bites for easy entertaining. This is a make-ahead appetizer that is easy to assemble and bake just before your guests arrive!
Author:
Recipe type: Appetizer
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 20
Ingredients
  • 1 sheet, store-bought puff pastry (I used organic Fillo Factory puff pastry)
  • ¼ tsp. freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 cup Provolone cheese (or other melty cheese), grated
  • 6 oz. pesto, homemade or, store-bought
  • ⅓ cup roasted red peppers, chopped and patted dry
  • 1 egg, lightly beaten with 1 TBSP. of water
  • 1 TBSP. fresh chives, minced (optional)
Instructions
  1. Thaw the puff pastry according to package directions. You can do this overnight in the refrigerator, or, on your countertop for an hour before use.
  2. Place the thawed puff pastry on a piece of parchment paper that has been dusted lightly with flour. Unroll it and, with a rolling pin, gently roll it out into a 10”x12” rectangle. Place the longer side in front of you.
  3. Using an offset spatula, spread the pesto evenly over the top of the puff pastry, leaving a ½” boarder around it. Top with the cheese and the freshly ground pepper.
  4. Scatter the chopped roasted peppers evenly over the pesto and cheese mixture. Brush the top edge of the puff pastry (away from you) with some beaten egg (this will help seal the log).
  5. Starting at the long side of the rectangle closest to you, roll up the puff pastry, away from you. With the seam side down, lift the parchment paper with the roll and place it in the refrigerator for an hour – this will make it easier to cut.
  6. While the puff pastry roll is chilling, preheat the oven to 400° F and set an oven rack to the middle position. Line a large sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
  7. Remove the roll from the freezer and place on a cutting board. Use a serrated knife to trim off the ends, then cut the roll into ½” thick slices.
  8. Arrange the slices cut side down on the prepared baking sheet, about 1” apart. Lightly brush the top and the outside of the puff pastry with the beaten egg.
  9. Bake for about 16 -18 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
  10. Remove the puff pastry bites from the oven and let them cool slightly on a rack. Place on a serving platter, sprinkle with some fresh chives and serve. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature with cocktails or a glass of crisp wine.
Recipe by Marilena's Kitchen at https://marilenaskitchen.com/cheesy-puff-pastry-bites-with-pesto-and-roasted-peppers/