Pastry Squares: Two Flavors for a Tantalizing Aperitif!
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Sometimes, the best things come in small, square packages, especially when those packages involve cheese, tomato, and salami. These Pastry Squares are the appetizer equivalent of a party trick that never gets old, easy to prep, quick to bake, and guaranteed to be loved.
With two simple fillings, one tomato-forward with a kick of parmesan, and the other starring melted cheese and salami, these bites bring enough flavor to satisfy a crowd.
What Are Pastry Squares?
Pastry squares are exactly what they sound like, they’re little square-shaped parcels of joy made from puff pastry and flavorful fillings. You’ll find versions of these across Europe and the Middle East, where puff pastry is often paired with everything from cheese and meat to herbs and vegetables.
They've become popular at aperitivo hours, cocktail parties, and even brunches. Why? Because they’re easy to make in bulk, look fancy without trying too hard, and you can mix and match fillings based on whatever's in your fridge. Plus, everyone loves a good snack that you can eat with your hands.
Pro Tips for the Best Pastry Squares
- Chill your pastry after folding. This helps the dough hold its shape and puff up nicely in the oven.
- Don’t overfill, because more isn’t always more. Too much filling will leak out and make the squares soggy.
- Use pre-shredded cheese for convenience, but grate fresh if you want bold flavor.
- Keep your oven hot and steady. A solid 180°C/360°F means the puff pastry rises properly.
Can I Freeze Pastry Squares?
Yes! After baking, let them cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container. Reheat until warmed through and crispy.
What Type of Cheese Works Best?
Semi-hard cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or mozzarella are perfect. They melt well and give you that rich texture without overpowering the flavor.
Can I Add More Fillings?
Sure! Add chopped olives, sun dried tomatoes, jalapeños, or even sautéed mushrooms, just keep it light so the pastry still crisps up.
Why Are My Squares Leaking in the Oven?
You might have overfilled them or not sealed the edges well enough. Press the pastry edges firmly before cutting into squares and chill before baking.
Can I Make a Sweet Version?
Yes! Swap the savory fillings for jam, Nutella, or sweetened cream cheese, and sprinkle with a bit of cinnamon sugar.
Do I Have to Use Two Types?
Not at all. You can make one big batch of just tomato or just cheese and salami. The two-flavor idea is just for variety.
Ingredients
How to Make Pastry Squares
In a small bowl, mix the tomato sauce with a pinch of salt and a dash of olive oil. Give it a stir until everything is well combined.
In a small bowl, mix the tomato sauce with a pinch of salt and a dash of olive oil. Give it a stir until everything is well combined.
Roll out one sheet of puff pastry on a cutting board. Spread the tomato sauce over half of the pastry and sprinkle generously with oregano and parmesan.
Roll out one sheet of puff pastry on a cutting board. Spread the tomato sauce over half of the pastry and sprinkle generously with oregano and parmesan.
Fold the puff pastry over the filled half and press the edges down firmly with your hands. Cut into small squares and chill in the fridge for 10 minutes.
Fold the puff pastry over the filled half and press the edges down firmly with your hands. Cut into small squares and chill in the fridge for 10 minutes.
Repeat the process with the second sheet of puff pastry. Then, arrange cheese and salami on one half.
Repeat the process with the second sheet of puff pastry. Then, arrange cheese and salami on one half.
Fold the puff pastry and press with your hands to close it well. Cut on squares and transfer to the fridge for 10 minutes.
Fold the puff pastry and press with your hands to close it well. Cut on squares and transfer to the fridge for 10 minutes.
Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Arrange the chilled squares on it. Whisk the egg yolk with a bit of olive oil and brush over the top of each square.
Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Arrange the chilled squares on it. Whisk the egg yolk with a bit of olive oil and brush over the top of each square.
Sprinkle the tomato squares with poppy seeds. Sprinkle the cheese and salami ones with sesame seeds. Pop them into a preheated oven at 180°C/360°F for 25 minutes.
Sprinkle the tomato squares with poppy seeds. Sprinkle the cheese and salami ones with sesame seeds. Pop them into a preheated oven at 180°C/360°F for 25 minutes.
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