Puff pastry baskets with salad

Puff Pastry Baskets with Mushroom Salad

If you're looking for an appetizer recipe that combines refined taste with an elegant appearance, then puff pastry baskets with mushroom salad are the perfect choice. These crispy delights are not only easy to prepare but also extremely versatile, as they can be filled with various salads depending on your preferences. Plus, they will bring a festive air to any meal!

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Number of Servings: 12 baskets

Ingredients you need:

- 500 g puff pastry (you can use store-bought dough for a quick dish)
- 2 cans of mushrooms (about 400 g, drained)
- 1 egg (for a golden appearance)
- 1 tablespoon of milk (for a creamier yolk)
- 2 cloves of garlic (for an intense flavor)
- Mayonnaise (to taste)
- Salt and pepper (for seasoning)
- Poppy seeds (for decoration)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Step by Step:

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

1. Rolling out the Dough: Start by unrolling the puff pastry on a clean surface. Make sure the dough is at room temperature for easier handling.

2. Cutting the Shapes: Use a glass to cut circles from the dough. You will need 12 circles for the base of the baskets. From some of these circles, cut a small round shape in the center (using a smaller glass) to create a lid with a hole.

Step 2: Preparing the Baskets

3. Preparing the Glaze: Separate the egg white from the yolk. Mix the yolk with 1 tablespoon of milk to create a creamy glaze.

4. Greasing the Shapes: Lightly beat the egg white with a fork and brush the edges of the circles of dough without the hole. This will help to seal the lid onto the basket.

5. Assembly: Place each circle with the hole on top of an intact circle. Brush the top with the yolk and milk mixture, then sprinkle a little poppy seed for a crunchy touch.

Step 3: Baking

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the baskets on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden and crispy. Occasionally, open the oven door and gently poke the center of each basket with a fork to prevent excessive puffing.

Step 4: Preparing the Mushroom Salad

7. Preparing the Salad: Meanwhile, drain the mushrooms from the cans and chop them finely. In a bowl, combine the mushrooms with minced garlic, salt, pepper, and mayonnaise to taste. Mix well to obtain a homogeneous composition.

Step 5: Final Assembly

8. Filling the Baskets: After the baskets have cooled slightly, fill each basket with the mushroom salad.

9. Garnishing: Decorate each basket with a sprinkle of pepper and a leaf of fresh parsley for a fresh and appetizing look.

Tips and Useful Advice:

- Make Them a Day in Advance: The baskets can be prepared a day ahead, and the filling added just before serving. This way, you can enjoy more time with your guests.
- Filling Variations: Instead of mushroom salad, you can try other fillings such as tuna salad, chicken salad with mayonnaise, or even a mix of roasted vegetables.
- Serving: These baskets pair perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or fresh lemonade, making them ideal for a gathering with friends or an elegant party.

Nutritional Benefits:

Puff pastry baskets with mushroom salad are not only delicious but also offer nutritional benefits. Mushrooms are rich in vitamin D, antioxidants, and fiber, contributing to a balanced diet. Additionally, the puff pastry adds a carbohydrate intake, providing the energy needed for an active day.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use another type of dough?
Yes, you can use tart dough or shortcrust pastry, but the baking time may vary.

2. How should the baskets be stored?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature, but it’s best to consume them fresh.

3. What other fillings can I use?
Depending on your preferences, you can try fillings with vegetables, cheese, meat, or even fruits for a sweet version.

With this recipe for puff pastry baskets with mushroom salad, you'll bring a touch of elegance and flavor to any special moment. Enjoy the cooking process and don't forget to experiment! Maybe a secret ingredient will help you turn them into everyone's favorites. Enjoy your meal!