Spicy Pesto Pastries

If you’re looking for a delicious, easy-to-make snack that’s packed with protein and flavour, these Spicy Pesto Pastries are perfect for you! Made with ready-rolled puff pastry and a few simple ingredients, they come together in minutes and deliver a satisfying crunch with every bite. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply need a quick snack, these pastries are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

 Quick and Easy: Using ready-rolled puff pastry saves time, making this a convenient recipe for any occasion.

 High Protein: With the addition of Kabanos sausage and mozzarella cheese, each bite is filled with a satisfying amount of protein.

 Customisable: You can easily adapt this recipe to your taste by swapping in your favourite sausages or adding a sprinkle of chilli flakes for an extra kick.

Here are the ingredients you will need:

• 1/2 sheet ready-rolled puff pastry: This gives the pastries their deliciously flaky and buttery base.
• 2 tbsp green pesto: Adds a fresh, herby flavour with a hint of spice.
• 20g grated mozzarella cheese: Provides a creamy and melty texture.
• A few pieces of chopped Kabanos: These thin, spicy sausages add a rich, smoky flavour and boost the protein content.
• 1 egg: For brushing on top, giving the pastries a beautiful golden finish.

Method

1. Prepare the Pastry

•  Preheat your oven to 180°C (or 170°C if using an air fryer).
•  Unroll the puff pastry and cut it in half to form two squares, each approximately 10 cm wide.

2. Add the Pesto

• •Spoon 1 tbsp of green pesto into the centre of each pastry square. Spread it out evenly, leaving a small border around the edges to help with folding.

3. Top with Cheese and Kabanos

• •Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese on top of the pesto. Then, add a few pieces of chopped Kabanos sausage for that spicy kick.

4. Create the Folded Pastry Shape

•  Using a sharp knife, make a cut from each corner towards the centre of the pastry, stopping just short of the middle. This will create a star shape with four triangles attached at the centre.
• Fold each corner towards the centre, pressing down gently to seal the pastry together.

5. Brush with Egg

• Beat the egg in a small bowl, then brush it over the pastries. This will give them a lovely golden-brown finish when baked.

6. Bake or Air Fry

• Place the pastries on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
• Bake in the oven at 180°C for about 15 minutes or air fry at 170°C for 12-14 minutes.
• Check the bottoms to ensure they are crispy and not soggy before removing from the oven or air fryer.

Tips for the Perfect Spicy Pesto Pastries

• Ensure a Crisp Base: To prevent a soggy bottom, make sure your oven or air fryer is preheated, and don’t overfill the pastries.
• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to swap out Kabanos with other types of sausage or even add some finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives for extra flavour.
• Serve Fresh: These pastries are best enjoyed fresh from the oven, when the puff pastry is still crispy and warm.

Serving Suggestions

These Spicy Pesto Pastries are incredibly versatile. Serve them:

• As a Snack: Perfect for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up or an appetiser at your next gathering.
• With a Salad: Pair with a crisp green salad for a light yet satisfying lunch.
• Dipped in Sauce: Enjoy with a side of marinara or a spicy sriracha mayo for an added burst of flavour.

Storage

If you have any leftovers (which we doubt!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them back in the oven or air fryer for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.

Final Thoughts

These Spicy Pesto Pastries are a delightful combination of crispy puff pastry, creamy cheese, and spicy sausage, making them a sure crowd-pleaser. With just a handful of ingredients and a straightforward method, you can whip these up anytime you’re craving a tasty, high-protein snack.

Give them a try, and let us know what you think in the comments below! Happy baking!