Save Crispy, golden pastry stars wrapped around tender asparagus spears, these elegant bundles make a delightful appetizer perfect for festive gatherings or springtime meals.
This recipe quickly became a favorite at our spring dinners, impressing guests with both appearance and flavor.
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 This recipe brings everyone together. We always share laughter and stories while assembling the bundles.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with lemon aioli or hollandaise sauce for dipping to enhance the flavor.
Variations
Try substituting asparagus with thin green beans or baby carrots for a fresh twist.
Storage Tips
Prep bundles ahead and refrigerate before baking to save time during busy gatherings.
Save These elegant bundles are sure to impress at any event with minimal effort.
Recipe Questions
- → What type of pastry is best for wrapping asparagus?
Puff pastry works best due to its flaky, golden texture when baked, complementing the tender asparagus.
- → How do I ensure the pastry stays crispy after baking?
Brush the pastry with beaten egg before baking to promote a golden, crisp finish. Serve warm to maintain texture.
- → Can I prepare the bundles ahead of time?
You can assemble the bundles and store them in the fridge briefly before baking; however, bake shortly after to preserve flakiness.
- → Are there good alternatives to asparagus for this dish?
Thin green beans or baby carrots can be used as vegetable substitutes, offering similar cooking times and texture.
- → What sauces pair well with these asparagus bundles?
Lemon aioli or hollandaise sauce complement the flaky pastry and fresh asparagus with bright, creamy flavors.