Need a simple yet impressive appetizer that will leave your guests raving? These Crispy Eggplant Puff Pastry Bites are the perfect choice! With the rich flavors of roasted eggplant, gooey mozzarella, and juicy cherry tomatoes encased in crispy puff pastry, they are a delightful treat. This recipe is not only easy to make but also packed with Mediterranean-inspired flavors that will elevate any occasion. Ideal for parties or gatherings, these little bites are sure to disappear quickly!
Ingredients:
- 1 medium eggplant, sliced into rounds
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- Olive oil (for brushing the eggplant)
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves or dried oregano
- 120g mozzarella, thinly sliced
- 50g shredded mozzarella (for pizza)
- 6 cherry tomatoes, halved
- 70g tomato sauce
- 1 egg yolk
- 15 ml milk (for egg wash)
- Poppy seeds or sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Eggplant: Lightly brush both sides of the sliced eggplant with olive oil and sprinkle with a little salt. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 10-15 minutes until they are tender and slightly golden.
- Prepare the Puff Pastry: While the eggplant is roasting, roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Cut the puff pastry into squares or rectangles, about 8 cm by 8 cm (3-inch squares), depending on how large you want your bites to be.
- Assemble the Bites: Spread a small spoonful of tomato sauce in the center of each puff pastry square. Place a roasted eggplant slice on top of the sauce, followed by a slice of mozzarella, a few shreds of the pizza mozzarella, and half a cherry tomato. Sprinkle some dried oregano or a fresh basil leaf on top for extra flavor.
- Seal the Pastry: Fold the edges of the puff pastry slightly inward to form a little border around the filling. This helps to keep the filling in place and makes for a neat presentation.
- Egg Wash and Garnish: 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 for a golden, glossy finish. Sprinkle poppy seeds or sesame seeds on the edges for a crunchy touch.
- Bake to Perfection: Transfer the assembled bites to the parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. The cheese should be melted, and the edges crispy.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the eggplant puff pastry bites from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve warm, and watch them disappear!
Conclusion:
These Crispy Eggplant Puff Pastry Bites are the perfect appetizer for any gathering. With the rich combination of roasted eggplant, mozzarella, and cherry tomatoes encased in flaky puff pastry, they offer a burst of Mediterranean flavor in every bite. Easy to prepare and even easier to eat, they’re sure to become a favorite at your next event. Enjoy the compliments and savor the simplicity of this crowd-pleasing recipe!