Save Crispy, golden pastry stars wrapped around tender asparagus spears, these elegant bundles make a delightful appetizer perfect for festive gatherings or springtime meals.
I first served this recipe at a spring brunch and everyone was impressed by its taste and presentation.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 24 medium asparagus spears, trimmed
- Pastry: 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- Dairy: 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash), 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- Seasoning: 1 tbsp olive oil, ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper, ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- Toss the asparagus spears with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using).
- Step 3:
- Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Cut into 8 strips, each about 1 inch (2.5 cm) wide and 6 inches (15 cm) long.
- Step 4:
- Gather 3 asparagus spears together and wrap one pastry strip around the middle of each bundle, leaving the tips and ends exposed. Pinch the ends of the pastry strip together at the bottom to form a star-like shape.
- Step 5:
- Place the bundles on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the pastry with the beaten egg and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Step 6:
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp.
- Step 7:
- Serve warm, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.
Save Making these bundles always brings our family together around the table, especially during spring celebrations.
Notes
For added flavor, spread a thin layer of cream cheese or herbed cheese on the pastry strips before wrapping.
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), egg, and dairy (milk, Parmesan cheese). Check puff pastry packaging for additional allergens or potential cross-contamination.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 160, Total Fat 9 g, Carbohydrates 15 g, Protein 5 g.
Save These bundles are a perfect blend of elegance and simplicity that add a special touch to any meal.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use alternative vegetables instead of asparagus?
Yes, thin green beans or baby carrots can be swapped in for asparagus to create a similar bundle with varied flavors.
- → What is the best way to achieve a golden pastry crust?
Brushing the pastry with beaten egg before baking helps produce a glossy, golden, and crisp crust.
- → How should the asparagus be prepared before wrapping?
Toss the spears with olive oil, salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder to enhance flavor and ensure even roasting inside the pastry.
- → Can the bundles be made in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the bundles ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake, maintaining freshness and ease.
- → What dipping sauces pair well with these bundles?
Lemon aioli and hollandaise sauce complement the bundles nicely, adding creamy and tangy notes.
- → Is it possible to add cheese to the bundles?
For extra richness, spread a thin layer of cream cheese or herbed cheese on the pastry strips before wrapping the asparagus.