Appetizer baskets made of puff pastry with sun-dried tomatoes, bell peppers, sausages, and eggs

Appetizer baskets made of puff pastry filled with sun-dried tomatoes, bell peppers, sausages, and eggs

Autumn has arrived, bringing with it the delicious season of warm and comforting dishes. In this recipe, I will share how to prepare appetizer baskets made of puff pastry filled with sun-dried tomatoes, bell peppers, sausages, and eggs. This appetizer not only looks good but is also incredibly tasty, perfect for serving at breakfast or as a savory snack when you have guests. Let's get to work!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

- 400 g puff pastry (preferably high-quality from a known producer)
- 4 fresh eggs
- 2 semi-smoked sausages (preferably made from pork or beef)
- 4 pieces of pickled bell peppers (for a slightly tangy flavor)
- 4 pieces of sun-dried tomatoes (ideally in oil for added flavor)
- 200 g cottage cheese (or ricotta for a creamier texture)
- 100 g mozzarella (optional, for gratin)

Preparing the baskets

1. Thawing the pastry: Start by taking the puff pastry out of the freezer and letting it thaw at room temperature. It’s important not to rush this process, as well-thawed pastry will roll out more easily.

2. Preparing the mold: Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 190 degrees Celsius. Choose four small tart molds or ramekins and line them with muffin papers (this step will make it easier to remove the baskets after baking).

3. Forming the baskets: Cut the puff pastry into four equal parts. Roll out each piece of pastry and place it in the mold, gently pressing to give it a round shape. Let the edges hang out for a rustic and appealing look.

4. Preparing the filling: Use a fork to prick the bottom of the pastry, preventing air bubbles from forming. Add a tablespoon of cottage cheese to each basket. This will provide a creamy and delicious base.

5. Adding the ingredients: Slice the semi-smoked sausages into rounds and lightly fry them in a pan until golden. Place a few sausage rounds over the cheese, then add cubes of bell peppers and pieces of sun-dried tomatoes.

6. Adding the eggs: Crack an egg into each basket, being careful not to spill the yolk. If you like, you can also add a little salt and pepper for an even richer taste.

7. Baking: Place the mini tart molds on a tray to avoid any accidents while baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the pastry is nicely browned and the eggs are cooked to your liking.

8. Gratin (optional): Five minutes before removing the baskets from the oven, sprinkle grated mozzarella on top to achieve a golden and appetizing crust.

Serving

Let the baskets cool slightly before removing them from the molds. Serve warm, alongside creamy yogurt, aromatic coffee, or tea. These appetizers are excellent not only for a weekend brunch but also for impressing guests at a party.

Tips and tricks

- Vegetarian option: You can replace the sausages with sautéed mushrooms or grilled vegetables for a delicious vegetarian option.
- Olive oil: If you use sun-dried tomatoes in oil, you can drizzle a little of this oil over the filling for added flavor.
- Bell peppers: If you don't have pickled bell peppers, you can use roasted red peppers, which add a similar taste.
- Cheese substitution: Instead of cottage cheese, you can use feta or goat cheese for a stronger flavor.

Nutritional benefits

These baskets are a good source of protein due to the eggs and sausages, while the tomatoes and bell peppers provide essential vitamins and antioxidants. The puff pastry, although richer in calories, can be enjoyed in moderation, and the combination of ingredients offers a pleasant balance of flavors and textures.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another type of pastry?
Yes, you can use tart pastry or gluten-free dough if you prefer.

2. What other fillings can I use?
You can experiment with different cheeses, seasonal vegetables, or even fruits for a sweet version.

3. How can I store the baskets?
It is recommended to consume them fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 1-2 days. Reheat them in the oven to restore their crispiness.

In the end, I hope you enjoy these appetizer baskets made of puff pastry with sun-dried tomatoes, bell peppers, sausages, and eggs. It is a simple yet impressive recipe that will delight any table. Bon appétit!