Imagine biting into a crispy, golden pastry that oozes with melted mozzarella and bursts with sun-ripened tomato flavor. These Cheese and Tomato Appetizer Turnovers are not just a recipe – they're a culinary magic trick that will transform your appetizer game from ordinary to extraordinary! Perfect for impressing guests, satisfying midnight cravings, or simply treating yourself to a gourmet moment, these turnovers are about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 12 turnovers
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Thaw the puff pastry sheet at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes pliable but still cool.
- In a medium bowl, combine shredded mozzarella cheese, diced tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
- Unfold the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface and gently roll it out to smooth any creases.
- Cut the pastry sheet into 12 equal squares using a sharp knife or pastry cutter.
- Place a small spoonful of the cheese and tomato mixture in the center of each pastry square, being careful not to overfill.
- Fold each square diagonally to create triangular turnovers, pressing edges firmly with a fork to seal completely.
- Brush each turnover with beaten egg wash to create a golden, shiny finish when baked.
- Arrange turnovers on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each for even cooking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until pastry is puffed and golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow filling to set.
- Serve warm as a delightful appetizer or light snack.
Tips
- Keep your puff pastry cold but pliable – this ensures maximum flakiness and prevents tearing.
- Don't overfill your turnovers; too much filling can cause them to burst during baking.
- Use a fork to crimp the edges tightly, creating a perfect seal that locks in all the delicious cheese and tomato goodness.
- For an extra flavor boost, try adding a sprinkle of fresh basil or a dash of garlic powder to the filling.
- Allow the turnovers to cool slightly before serving to prevent burning and to let the filling set.
- If you want a more golden finish, brush the egg wash twice – once before baking and once halfway through cooking.
- These turnovers can be prepared in advance and frozen before baking – perfect for last-minute entertaining!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 35mg
