Save Celebrate any gathering with a festive twist by serving this Star-Shaped Pesto Dip with Cracker Edges. Creamy, herbaceous pesto filling nestled in the center of a flaky, golden puff pastry star creates a visually stunning and delicious appetizer that's perfect for parties or holiday occasions. Its crispy edges double as crackers, offering a fun and interactive way to enjoy every bite.
Save This Italian-inspired appetizer blends creamy cheeses and bright pesto flavors in a smooth filling encased within a beautifully crisp pastry star. The combination of textures invites guests to indulge in both the rich dip and the crunchy pastry edges, enhancing the overall tasting experience. It’s a wonderful way to elevate party snacks with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- For the Pesto Dip
- 200 g cream cheese, softened
- 100 g ricotta cheese
- 80 g basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 garlic clove, finely minced
- 20 g grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- For the Star Shape & Cracker Edges
- 1 sheet puff pastry (about 250 g), thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Extra Parmesan cheese, for sprinkling
Instructions
- 1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to about 3 mm thick. Using a large star-shaped cookie cutter (about 20 cm across), cut out a star shape. Place the pastry star on the prepared baking sheet.
- 3. With the remaining pastry, cut strips about 1.5 cm wide. Arrange these strips around the edges of the star to form a raised border. Press gently to seal.
- 4. Brush the pastry edges with beaten egg. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
- 5. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp. Let cool completely on a wire rack.
- 6. In a bowl, combine cream cheese, ricotta, pesto, garlic, Parmesan, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- 7. Once the pastry base has cooled, carefully transfer it to a serving platter. Spoon the pesto dip into the center of the star and spread evenly within the border.
- 8. Serve immediately, using the crispy pastry edges as crackers to scoop up the dip.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Ensure the puff pastry is chilled but pliable before rolling to achieve the best flaky texture. Press the border strips gently to seal them well, so they hold shape during baking. Let the pastry cool completely before adding the dip to prevent any sogginess and maintain crisp edges.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For added flavor, consider folding in sun-dried tomatoes or chopped olives into the pesto dip. You can substitute with gluten-free puff pastry if needed to accommodate dietary restrictions. Experimenting with different pesto types, such as sun-dried tomato or arugula pesto, can also bring unique twists to this dish.
Serviervorschläge
This dip pairs wonderfully with crisp white wines like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, enhancing the herbal and creamy notes. Offer alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced appetizer spread.
Save This star-shaped pesto dip not only captivates with its appearance but also delights with every creamy and crunchy bite. Whether for a festive celebration or a casual get-together, it’s a memorable appetizer that invites sharing and savoring.
Kitchen Guide
- → How do you achieve the star shape with puff pastry?
Roll out puff pastry thinly and use a large star-shaped cutter or template to cut the main star. Cut strips from remaining pastry and arrange them as a raised border around the star, pressing edges to seal before baking.
- → Can I prepare the creamy filling in advance?
Yes, combining the cheeses, pesto, and seasoning ahead allows flavors to meld. Keep refrigerated and fill the pastry star just before serving to maintain freshness.
- → What’s the best way to ensure the pastry edges are crispy?
Brushing the edges with beaten egg wash and baking at a high temperature helps achieve a golden, crisp texture. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet for even heat circulation.
- → Are there garnish options to enhance presentation and flavor?
Sprinkling sesame seeds or extra grated Parmesan on the pastry edges before baking adds both visual appeal and a nutty, savory note.
- → What variations can be added to the pesto filling?
Consider mixing in chopped sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or fresh herbs to customize the flavor profile while keeping the creamy texture intact.