Pin this Celebrate any gathering with this Star-Shaped Pesto Dip, a festive appetizer that combines creamy, herbaceous pesto filling with delightfully crispy cracker edges made from golden puff pastry. Perfectly shaped with a star cutter, this easy-to-make dip brings an eye-catching centerpiece to your party table while inviting guests to scoop and share its vibrant flavors.
Pin this Whether welcoming guests for the holidays or hosting a casual get-together, this pesto dip balances creamy textures and fresh herbal brightness with a satisfying crunch. The star shape adds a festive touch that pairs beautifully with the richness of the cheeses and the brightness of lemon juice.
Ingredients
- For the Pesto Dip
- 200 g cream cheese, softened
- 100 g ricotta cheese
- 80 g basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 garlic clove, finely minced
- 20 g grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- For the Star Shape & Cracker Edges
- 1 sheet puff pastry (about 250 g), thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Extra Parmesan cheese, for sprinkling
Instructions
- 1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to about 3 mm thick. Using a large star-shaped cookie cutter (about 20 cm across), cut out a star shape. Place the pastry star on the prepared baking sheet.
- 3. With the remaining pastry, cut strips about 1.5 cm wide. Arrange these strips around the edges of the star to form a raised border. Press gently to seal.
- 4. Brush the pastry edges with beaten egg. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
- 5. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp. Let cool completely on a wire rack.
- 6. In a bowl, combine cream cheese, ricotta, pesto, garlic, Parmesan, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- 7. Once the pastry base has cooled, carefully transfer it to a serving platter. Spoon the pesto dip into the center of the star and spread evenly within the border.
- 8. Serve immediately, using the crispy pastry edges as crackers to scoop up the dip.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Ensure the puff pastry is well chilled before rolling for easy handling. Rolling the pastry to an even thickness helps it bake uniformly. Allow the pastry to cool fully before adding the dip to prevent the creamy filling from melting. For a decorative touch, gently press the edges of the pastry border with a fork to create patterns.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For extra flavor, mix sun-dried tomatoes or chopped olives into the pesto dip. Use gluten-free puff pastry if you need a gluten-free option. To make it spicier, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dip mixture or sprinkle over the top.
Serviervorschläge
This dip pairs wonderfully with crisp white wines such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. Serve alongside a selection of fresh vegetables or additional crackers for guests who want to mix up their dipping experience.
Pin this This Star-Shaped Pesto Dip is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that is sure to impress guests and become a recurring favorite for celebrations. Its simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it accessible for cooks of all skill levels, while its festive presentation adds a touch of charm to your appetizers.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of cheese works best for the filling?
A combination of cream cheese and ricotta creates a smooth, creamy base that balances well with the pesto's herbal flavors.
- → Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes, store-bought basil pesto works well and saves time without compromising flavor.
- → How do I prevent the pastry edges from burning?
Brushing the edges with egg wash and baking at the recommended temperature ensures a golden, crispy finish without burning.
- → Are there gluten-free options for the pastry?
Gluten-free puff pastry can be substituted to accommodate dietary preferences while maintaining crispiness.
- → What are good pairings for this dish?
It pairs nicely with crisp white wines like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc and complements a variety of light appetizers.