Quick and Easy Eggplant Puff Pastry Appetizer: A Tasty Treat for Any Occasion

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This eggplant puff pastry appetizer is a delightful combination of flaky pastry, tender eggplant, and melted mozzarella cheese, topped with cherry tomatoes and aromatic herbs. It’s a perfect appetizer for any gathering or a simple snack that’s sure to impress. With its crispy texture and rich flavors, this dish is both easy to make and delicious to eat.

Ingredients:

  • 1 eggplant, sliced
  • 1 sheet of puff pastry
  • Olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Fresh basil or dried oregano
  • 120g mozzarella, sliced
  • 50g shredded mozzarella for pizza
  • 6 cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 70g tomato sauce
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 15 ml milk
  • Poppy seeds or sesame seeds (for sprinkling)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Eggplant:
    • Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
    • Slice the eggplant into thin rounds, about 1/4 inch thick.
    • Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat and lightly brush the eggplant slices with olive oil. Grill the eggplant slices for 2-3 minutes on each side until tender and slightly browned. Season with a pinch of salt and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
    • Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface to smooth out any creases. Cut the pastry into rectangles or squares, depending on your preference.
    • Place the pastry pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Assemble the Appetizer:
    • Spread a small amount of tomato sauce in the center of each puff pastry square, leaving a small border around the edges.
    • Place a slice of grilled eggplant on top of the tomato sauce.
    • Add a slice of mozzarella cheese on top of the eggplant, followed by a few pieces of the shredded mozzarella for extra cheesiness.
    • Top with half a cherry tomato and sprinkle with fresh basil or dried oregano.
  4. Prepare the Egg Wash:
    • In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and milk to create an egg wash.
    • Brush the edges of the puff pastry with the egg wash to give them a golden color when baked.
  5. Add the Seeds:
    • Sprinkle the edges of the puff pastry with poppy seeds or sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.
  6. Bake:
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Serve:
    • Once baked, remove the puff pastry appetizers from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack.
    • Serve warm, garnished with additional fresh basil if desired.

Conclusion:

These quick and easy eggplant puff pastry appetizers are a perfect bite-sized treat for any occasion. The combination of crispy puff pastry, savory eggplant, and gooey melted cheese makes for a delightful appetizer that’s both satisfying and full of flavor. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a delicious snack, these appetizers are sure to be a hit. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven for the best experience!

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