Transform humble broccoli into an elegant appetizer that will have everyone reaching for seconds. These golden, flaky puff pastry rolls filled with creamy ricotta and tender broccoli are proof that vegetarian dishes can steal the spotlight at any gathering.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 400g (1 lb) broccoli, finely chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 250g (9 oz) ricotta cheese
- 40g (1.5 oz) parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 2 eggs (1 for filling, 1 for egg wash)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Assembly:
- 2 sheets rectangular puff pastry, thawed
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Broccoli
- Wash and finely chop broccoli into small florets
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat
- Sauté onion until translucent (3-4 minutes)
- Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds
- Add broccoli, salt, and pepper
- Cook until broccoli is tender but still bright green (5-7 minutes)
- Let cool completely
- Make the Filling
- In a large bowl, combine cooled broccoli mixture with ricotta
- Add grated parmesan and 1 beaten egg
- Season with additional salt and pepper to taste
- Mix until well combined
- Assemble the Rolls
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F)
- Roll out puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface
- Spread broccoli-ricotta mixture evenly across pastry
- Roll pastry tightly lengthwise, like a Swiss roll
- Beat remaining egg for egg wash
- Cut rolls into 2-inch (5cm) pieces
- Brush with egg wash
- Bake
- Place rolls on parchment-lined baking sheet
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving
Nutritional Information
Per roll (based on 12 servings):
- Calories: 245
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 280mg
Timing:
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Tips and Tricks
- Ensure broccoli is finely chopped for easy rolling
- Pat broccoli dry after cooking to prevent soggy pastry
- Chill the filled rolls for 15 minutes before cutting for cleaner slices
- Score the top of pastry lightly before baking for decoration
- Let puff pastry thaw completely but keep it cold
Variations and Substitutions
- Replace broccoli with cauliflower or spinach
- Swap ricotta for cream cheese or goat cheese
- Add nutmeg or red pepper flakes for extra flavor
- Use phyllo dough instead of puff pastry for a lighter version
- Include other cheeses like mozzarella or gruyere
Common FAQs
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes, assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking, or freeze unbaked rolls for up to 3 months.
Q: Why is my puff pastry not rising?
A: Ensure pastry is cold when it goes into a hot oven for maximum puff.
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A: Yes, but thaw and drain well to remove excess moisture.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Store baked rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Reheat in oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes
- Freeze unbaked rolls for up to 3 months
- Freeze baked rolls for up to 1 month
- Thaw frozen rolls overnight in refrigerator before reheating
These elegant vegetarian rolls are perfect for parties, picnics, or as a sophisticated starter. Their make-ahead capability and crowd-pleasing nature make them an ideal choice for entertaining.
