Description

These Delightful Eggplant Puff Pastry Bites are flaky, flavorful, and irresistibly satisfying. With a golden puff pastry shell and a filling of eggplant, tomato, and mozzarella, these bites are the perfect appetizer for any occasion. They’re quick to make, easy to assemble, and guaranteed to wow your guests with their sophisticated taste and presentation. Serve them at your next gathering or enjoy them as a quick snack—you won’t be disappointed!

Ingredients

1 medium eggplant, sliced into thin rounds
1 sheet of puff pastry
Olive oil, as needed
Salt, to taste
Fresh basil leaves or 1 teaspoon dried oregano
120g mozzarella, sliced
50g shredded mozzarella for pizza
6 cherry tomatoes, halved
70g tomato sauce
1 egg yolk
15 ml milk
Poppy seeds or sesame seeds for topping

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Instructions

Set the Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Prepare the Eggplant: Slice the eggplant into thin rounds. Sprinkle both sides of each slice with salt and let them rest for about 10 minutes to release excess moisture. Rinse the slices under water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
Cook the Eggplant: Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the eggplant slices until golden brown on both sides. Set aside to cool.
Prepare the Puff Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Cut it into small squares, approximately 7×7 cm.
Assemble the Bites:
- Spoon a small amount of tomato sauce into the center of each pastry square.
- Add a slice of fried eggplant on top of the sauce.
- Place a slice of mozzarella and half a cherry tomato over the eggplant.
- Sprinkle with fresh basil leaves or dried oregano.
Seal the Edges: Fold the corners of each puff pastry square toward the center to form a small parcel. Press the edges gently to seal.
Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and milk. Brush this mixture over the top of each pastry parcel. Sprinkle with poppy seeds or sesame seeds.
Bake: Place the assembled bites on the prepared baking tray and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp.
Serve: Allow the bites to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm, paired with a dipping sauce or on their own!

Notes

To ensure the puff pastry rises beautifully, keep it cold until you’re ready to assemble the bites.
You can replace eggplant with zucchini or roasted peppers for a twist.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in an oven or air fryer for best results.
For a smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the tomato sauce before assembling.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Fusion