Pesto Parmesan Cheese Straws

If you’re on the lookout for a delightful appetizer that will impress your guests and leave everyone asking for more, Pesto Parmesan Cheese Straws are the perfect choice. These golden, flaky straws are bursting with flavor thanks to the rich pesto and nutty Parmesan cheese. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make using store-bought puff pastry, making them a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want a tasty snack, these cheese straws are sure to satisfy your cravings.

The Upside of Pesto Parmesan Cheese Straws

There’s something undeniably joyous about biting into a crispy, cheesy pastry. The combination of the herbaceous pesto with the savory Parmesan creates a harmonious blend of flavors that is simply irresistible. Not only are they delicious, but they are also versatile. You can serve them warm straight out of the oven, or let them cool and enjoy them as a crunchy snack. They pair beautifully with a variety of dipping sauces, making them perfect for entertaining. Plus, they can be made in just a few simple steps, allowing you to whip them up in no time.

Your Shopping Guide

To create your Pesto Parmesan Cheese Straws, you’ll need to gather a few ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed – Look for high-quality puff pastry in the freezer section.
• 3 tablespoons pesto – Fresh pesto is ideal, but store-bought works too.
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated will give you the best flavor.
• 3 tablespoons extra Parmesan cheese, divided – Use this for garnish.
• 1 egg – This will help to bind the ingredients and give your straws a golden color.
• 1 tablespoon water – To mix with the egg for an egg wash.

Tools & Equipment Needed

Before you get started, make sure you have the following tools on hand:

• Baking sheet – A large baking sheet to hold the cheese straws.
• Parchment paper – To prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
• Rolling pin – To roll out the puff pastry if needed.
• Pastry brush – For applying the egg wash.
• Pizza cutter or sharp knife – To cut the straws into strips.

Pesto Parmesan Cheese Straws — Do This Next

Now that you have everything ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making these Pesto Parmesan Cheese Straws.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is the perfect temperature to get those cheese straws crispy and golden.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help prevent the cheese straws from sticking and make for easy cleanup.

Step 3: Roll Out the Puff Pastry

If your puff pastry is not already rolled out, use a rolling pin to gently roll it out on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 1/8 inch thick. You want it to be even to ensure uniform cooking.

Step 4: Spread the Pesto

Spread 3 tablespoons of pesto evenly over one sheet of the puff pastry. Use a spatula to create a thin, even layer.

Step 5: Add the Parmesan Cheese

Sprinkle 1/3 cup of grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the pesto layer. This cheesy goodness will melt beautifully as the straws bake.

Step 6: Fold the Pastry

Place the second sheet of puff pastry on top of the first one, pressing down gently to adhere it. This creates a deliciously cheesy filling between the layers.

Step 7: Cut the Straws

Using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, cut the pastry into strips about 1 inch wide. Then twist each strip several times to create a spiral shape, and lay them on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 8: Make the Egg Wash

In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water. Brush this mixture over each of the twisted cheese straws to give them a beautiful golden hue when baked.

Step 9: Sprinkle with Extra Parmesan

Before placing them in the oven, sprinkle the remaining 3 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese over the top of the straws for that extra cheesy flavor.

Step 10: Bake

Bake the straws in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are puffed and golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as baking times may vary depending on your oven.

Quick Replacement Ideas

If you’re missing an ingredient or want to customize your Pesto Parmesan Cheese Straws, consider these quick replacements:

• Use sun-dried tomato pesto for a different flavor twist.
• Swap out the Parmesan for Asiago cheese for a sharper taste.
• For a vegan version, use nut-based cheese and a plant-based egg substitute.
• Try adding crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

Things That Go Wrong

Every now and then, things might not go as planned. Here are some common issues and how to avoid them:

• Puff pastry not rising: Ensure your pastry is cold before baking and that your oven is preheated properly.
• Cheese straws sticking: Make sure to line your baking sheet with parchment paper or use a silicone baking mat.
• Overbaking: Keep a close eye on the straws as they bake; even a minute too long can lead to burnt edges.
• Uneven strips: Use a ruler or template if necessary to ensure even cutting for uniform cooking.

Make-Ahead & Storage

You can easily make these Pesto Parmesan Cheese Straws ahead of time:

To prepare them in advance, assemble the straws and place them on the baking sheet. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. If you want to freeze them, place the unbaked straws in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply add an extra few minutes to the baking time.

Pesto Parmesan Cheese Straws Q&A

Can I use homemade pesto for this recipe?

Absolutely! Homemade pesto can add a fresh and vibrant flavor to your Pesto Parmesan Cheese Straws. Just make sure it’s well-blended and not too oily.

Can I make these cheese straws gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free puff pastry available in many grocery stores. Just ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

What can I serve with the cheese straws?

These straws pair wonderfully with a variety of dips. You could serve them with marinara sauce, garlic aioli, or even a creamy dip like ranch or blue cheese dressing.

How do I reheat leftover cheese straws?

To reheat, place the leftover straws in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This will help restore their crispiness.

Because You Liked This

If you enjoyed making Pesto Parmesan Cheese Straws, you might also love these recipes:

• 15 Minute Creamy Pesto Tortellini
• Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake
• Creamy Garlic Spinach Penne In 20 Minutes

Before You Go

These Pesto Parmesan Cheese Straws are a delightful addition to your appetizer repertoire, bringing together the richness of cheese and the fresh flavor of pesto in a fun, crispy form. Whether you’re enjoying them at a gathering or as a snack at home, they are sure to be a hit. So roll out that puff pastry and get ready to indulge in some seriously delicious cheese straws! Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share the love with friends and family.