These Easy Puff Pastry Twists with Zaatar are a delightful, flaky treat with a unique twist of Middle Eastern spices. The zaatar adds an earthy, herbal depth that pairs perfectly with the buttery crispiness of the puff pastry. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, snack, or party food, these twists are sure to impress everyone at the table!
Perfect for any gathering, these puff pastry twists are quick to prepare and full of flavor. The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity – with just a few ingredients, you can create an irresistible, crispy snack. Add a touch of parmesan for extra richness or enjoy them just as they are for a lighter, aromatic bite.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
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2 tablespoons zaatar
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1/4 cup olive oil
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1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese (optional)
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1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
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Salt, to taste
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface.
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Brush the olive oil over the puff pastry sheet evenly.
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Sprinkle the zaatar and grated parmesan (if using) evenly over the pastry.
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Cut the pastry into strips, about 1 inch wide.
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Twist each strip several times and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
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Brush the twisted pastry with the beaten egg to give them a golden finish.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until golden and crispy.
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Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and serve!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes Kcal: 150 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Why Puff Pastry?
Puff pastry is a versatile, flaky dough that adds a rich, buttery flavor and a light, airy texture to baked goods. Its ability to puff up when baked gives it a delicate, crispy texture that contrasts perfectly with savory fillings like zaatar. It is the ideal base for this recipe because of its ease of use and delicious outcome. Many people shy away from using puff pastry due to the misconception that it’s difficult to work with, but with store-bought puff pastry, the process becomes quick and stress-free.
Puff pastry can be found in the frozen section of most supermarkets, which makes it incredibly convenient for home bakers. The key to working with puff pastry is to ensure it’s thawed properly before use and to handle it with care to maintain its flaky layers. For this recipe, puff pastry is rolled out, brushed with olive oil, and topped with zaatar, then twisted and baked to golden perfection.
What is Zaatar?
Zaatar is a spice blend that hails from the Middle East, where it’s used to flavor a variety of dishes. The blend typically includes dried thyme, oregano, sesame seeds, sumac, and salt. The flavor of zaatar is earthy, tangy, and slightly nutty, with the sumac adding a citrusy zing. It’s a flavorful seasoning that can transform simple dishes into something extraordinary.
In this recipe, zaatar is the main seasoning that elevates the puff pastry twists. The combination of the fragrant herbs and spices pairs beautifully with the crisp, buttery layers of the puff pastry, creating a savory treat that’s both aromatic and delicious. Zaatar is often used on bread, mixed with olive oil, or sprinkled over vegetables and meats, making it an incredibly versatile spice blend.
How to Make Puff Pastry Twists with Zaatar
Making puff pastry twists with zaatar is incredibly easy and requires only a few simple ingredients. Once you have your puff pastry and zaatar ready, the steps are straightforward. Begin by rolling out the puff pastry on a flat surface, then brush it with olive oil and sprinkle the zaatar evenly on top. If you like, you can also add some grated parmesan cheese to the pastry for extra richness.
Once the pastry is prepared, cut it into strips, twist each strip several times, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. The twists are then brushed with a beaten egg wash to give them a golden, glossy finish as they bake in the oven. After just 12-15 minutes, they come out crispy, flaky, and full of flavor.
Variations of Puff Pastry Twists with Zaatar
While the basic recipe for puff pastry twists with zaatar is delicious on its own, there are several ways to customize it to suit your taste. For instance, you can experiment with different types of cheese. Parmesan is a popular choice, but feta, goat cheese, or mozzarella would also be great additions.
If you want to add some extra crunch and texture, try sprinkling toasted pine nuts or sesame seeds on top of the twists before baking. You could even add some finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or mint for an additional burst of flavor.
For a more decadent version, brush the puff pastry with garlic butter instead of olive oil for an extra layer of flavor. You can also experiment with adding a sweet component by drizzling honey or balsamic glaze over the baked twists, offering a sweet and savory contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Puff pastry twists with zaatar are versatile and can be served in many different ways. As appetizers, they pair wonderfully with hummus, tzatziki, or a yogurt dip. They also make a great accompaniment to a salad or soup, providing a crunchy contrast to softer dishes.
For a more substantial meal, these twists can be served alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a Mediterranean mezze platter. Their light, flaky texture and savory flavor make them an excellent choice for parties, gatherings, or casual family meals.
The Health Benefits of Zaatar
In addition to its delicious flavor, zaatar also has several health benefits. Thyme, one of the primary ingredients in zaatar, is known for its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. It has also been linked to improved digestion and respiratory health. Sumac, another key ingredient, is rich in vitamin C, which supports immune function and promotes healthy skin.
Olive oil, which is used to brush the puff pastry, is a healthy fat that’s packed with monounsaturated fatty acids. It’s heart-healthy and can help reduce inflammation in the body. These health benefits, combined with the richness of the puff pastry, make this dish a balanced, flavorful option for your meals.
Conclusion
Puff pastry twists with zaatar are a simple yet impressive snack that brings together the best of both worlds—flaky, buttery pastry and fragrant, tangy zaatar. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a delicious treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a quick snack, or adding something extra to your meal, these twists are sure to be a hit.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can customize it with different cheeses, herbs, or toppings to suit your personal preferences, making it a dish that’s easy to adapt and always delightful. The addition of zaatar adds a unique flavor profile that’s both familiar and exotic, making these puff pastry twists a standout in any meal or gathering.
So the next time you’re in the mood for something savory and satisfying, reach for some puff pastry and zaatar, and let this delicious recipe elevate your snacking experience.