Italian Sesame-Crusted Pastries with Tomato Sauce Ingredients (Makes about 12 pastries):
For the Pastry:
1 package (14 oz) puff pastry (thawed, if frozen)
1 egg (for egg wash)
1/4 cup sesame seeds (for crust)
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Tomato Filling:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (14.5-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for extra richness)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for added flavor)
For the Tomato Dipping Sauce:
1 cup tomato sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
👩🍳 Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tomato Filling:
In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, add the tomato paste and continue simmering for another 5 minutes.
Once thickened, remove from heat and let it cool slightly. You can stir in the grated Parmesan cheese at this point for a richer flavor.
2. Prepare the Pastry:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a knife or pastry cutter to cut the pastry into squares (about 3x3 inches or to your preference).
Place a spoonful of the cooled tomato filling in the center of each pastry square.
Fold each square into a triangle or rectangle, sealing the edges by pressing them with a fork. Ensure the filling is fully enclosed.
3. Add the Sesame Crust:
In a small bowl, whisk the egg to create an egg wash. Brush the top of each pastry with the egg wash.
Sprinkle sesame seeds generously over the egg-washed top of each pastry.
Place the pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake the Pastries:
Bake the pastries in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up.
Once baked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes.
5. Prepare the Tomato Dipping Sauce:
In a small saucepan, heat the tomato sauce over medium heat. Add the oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let it simmer for 5-10 minutes to blend the flavors.
6. Serve:
Serve the hot, sesame-crusted pastries with the tomato dipping sauce on the side for dipping.
Enjoy as an appetizer, snack, or part of a larger meal!
💡 Tips:
Add Cheese: You can add a little mozzarella or ricotta cheese to the tomato filling for a creamier texture and extra flavor.
Customize the Filling: Feel free to add herbs like thyme or rosemary to the filling, or even olives and capers for an extra Italian twist.
Make Ahead: These pastries can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge. Just bake them when you're ready to serve.
Italian Sesame-Crusted Pastries with Tomato Sauce are the perfect combination of crispy, savory, and herby. They make a great snack or party appetizer that will surely impress your guests! 🍅🥐