Welcome to a world of flavors where every bite takes you on a journey to the sunny Mediterranean coast! If you’re looking for an appetizer that’s both easy to make and packed with delicious ingredients, you’ve come to the right place. These Savory Mediterranean Puff Pastry Spirals are sure to impress your guests and become a staple at your gatherings. Let’s dive into this recipe that combines creamy, tangy, and savory elements in every bite.
Introduction
Mediterranean cuisine is known for its vibrant flavors, healthy ingredients, and rich culinary history. This Savory Mediterranean Puff Pastry Spirals recipe perfectly encapsulates that tradition by using classic ingredients like pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, and olives, all wrapped in a light, flaky puff pastry. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a quick snack, these spirals are both elegant and delicious. I remember the first time I tried this recipe—it was during a Mediterranean-themed dinner party, and these pinwheels were the star of the show. They’re so easy to make yet so impressive!
Ingredients
To prepare this comforting recipe, you’ll need:
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup prepared pesto
- 3/4 cup shredded provolone cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chopped ripe olives
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Optional Substitutions:
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream cheese and provolone.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute with gluten-free puff pastry.
- Vegan: Replace the cream cheese and provolone with vegan alternatives.
How to Make Savory Mediterranean Puff Pastry Spirals
Follow these steps to create your own delicious Savory Mediterranean Puff Pastry Spirals:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot enough to achieve a golden-brown, crispy pastry.
- Prepare the Puff Pastry: Unfold the puff pastry and roll it out on a lightly floured surface, trimming it into a perfect 10-inch square.
- Mix the Filling: In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and pesto until smooth. Once combined, stir in the shredded provolone, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and pepper.
- Assemble the Spirals: Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges. This ensures that the filling won’t spill out when you roll it up.
- Roll and Freeze: Roll up the pastry tightly, jelly-roll style, and then freeze it for 30 minutes. This step makes it easier to slice the roll into even pieces.
- Slice and Bake: After freezing, cut the roll crosswise into 16 slices. Place them cut-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Helpful Tips
- Chilling the Pastry: Freezing the roll before slicing helps maintain the shape of the spirals and makes them easier to handle.
- Uniform Slices: Use a sharp knife to ensure clean, even cuts, which will help the spirals bake evenly.
- Avoid Overfilling: Be careful not to overfill the puff pastry, as this can cause the spirals to burst open during baking.
Cooking Tips
- Enhance the Flavor: Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving for an extra burst of flavor.
- Equipment Suggestions: A good-quality rolling pin will help you achieve a uniform pastry thickness. Additionally, use a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup and even baking.
Serving Suggestions
These Savory Mediterranean Puff Pastry Spirals pair wonderfully with a light salad or a glass of crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc. For a more substantial spread, serve them alongside hummus, tzatziki, or a platter of marinated vegetables. Arrange them on a rustic wooden board for a charming, Mediterranean-style presentation.
Nutritional Information
Each spiral is not just delicious but also provides a satisfying blend of nutrients:
- Calories: 150 kcal per pinwheel
- Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 210mg
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.5g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 210mg
- Potassium: 50mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Vitamin A: 500 IU
- Vitamin C: 1mg
- Calcium: 80mg
- Iron: 1mg
This dish is rich in flavor, with healthy fats from the olives and a good amount of protein from the cheese, making it a satisfying treat.
Storage and Leftovers
Refrigerate: Store any leftover spirals in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat: To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy again.
Leftovers are great for a quick snack or as part of a packed lunch. If you have more than you can eat within a few days, consider freezing them and reheating directly from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the reheating time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the roll, freeze it, and slice the spirals in advance. Keep them frozen and bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I use different cheeses?
Absolutely! While provolone provides a nice melt and mild flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, feta, or even a sharp cheddar for a different taste profile.
What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?
You can substitute with roasted red peppers or fresh cherry tomatoes for a similar tangy sweetness.
Related Recipes
If you loved this recipe, you might also enjoy these delicious dishes:
-
Hearty Southern Breakfast Enchiladas Smothered In Creamy Sausage Gravy
-
Savory Golden Onion Butter Jasmine Rice Recipe
Conclusion
I hope you enjoy making and eating these Savory Mediterranean Puff Pastry Spirals as much as I do! They’re perfect for any occasion, easy to prepare, and always a crowd-pleaser. Don’t forget to share your experience or any variations you try—I’d love to hear how they turn out for you. Happy cooking!
Print
Savory Mediterranean Puff Pastry Spirals
Description
Welcome to a world of flavors where every bite takes you on a journey to the sunny Mediterranean coast! If you’re looking for an appetizer that’s both easy to make and packed with delicious ingredients, you’ve come to the right place. These Savory Mediterranean Puff Pastry Spirals are sure to impress your guests and become a staple at your gatherings. Let’s dive into this recipe that combines creamy, tangy, and savory elements in every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup prepared pesto
- 3/4 cup shredded provolone cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chopped ripe olives
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot enough to achieve a golden-brown, crispy pastry.
- Prepare the Puff Pastry: Unfold the puff pastry and roll it out on a lightly floured surface, trimming it into a perfect 10-inch square.
- Mix the Filling: In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and pesto until smooth. Once combined, stir in the shredded provolone, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and pepper.
- Assemble the Spirals: Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges. This ensures that the filling won’t spill out when you roll it up.
- Roll and Freeze: Roll up the pastry tightly, jelly-roll style, and then freeze it for 30 minutes. This step makes it easier to slice the roll into even pieces.
- Slice and Bake: After freezing, cut the roll crosswise into 16 slices. Place them cut-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
Buy Now →
Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
Buy Now →Notes
- Chilling the Pastry: Freezing the roll before slicing helps maintain the shape of the spirals and makes them easier to handle.
- Uniform Slices: Use a sharp knife to ensure clean, even cuts, which will help the spirals bake evenly.
- Avoid Overfilling: Be careful not to overfill the puff pastry, as this can cause the spirals to burst open during baking.
