Pesto Mozzarella Pinwheels are a flaky, cheesy, and savory appetizer or snack that’s perfect for any occasion. Made with puff pastry, vibrant pesto, and gooey mozzarella cheese, these pinwheels are air-fried to golden perfection. Easy to prepare and visually appealing, they are ideal for parties, brunches, or a quick treat.
Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed)
- 1/4 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
- Nonstick cooking spray or olive oil spray
- Marinara or ranch dipping sauce (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to ensure an even thickness.
- Add the Filling:
- Spread the pesto evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the pesto.
- Roll the Pastry:
- Starting from one end, tightly roll the puff pastry into a log. Wrap the log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to firm up for easier slicing.
- Slice the Pinwheels:
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the chilled pastry log into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
- Air Fry the Pinwheels:
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray. Arrange the pinwheels in a single layer, leaving space between each.
- Brush the tops with the beaten egg and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes or until the pinwheels are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve:
- Remove the pinwheels from the air fryer and let cool slightly. Serve warm with marinara or ranch dipping sauce if desired.
Time:
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: ~25 minutes
Servings:
- Makes approximately 10-12 pinwheels, serving 4 people (2-3 pinwheels per person).
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving, Approximate):
- Calories: ~210
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: ~250mg
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredients and portion sizes.
Key Notes:
- Puff Pastry Tip: Keep the puff pastry cold before working with it to maintain its flakiness.
- Cheese Options: Substitute mozzarella with fontina, provolone, or a vegan cheese alternative for dietary preferences.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the rolls and freeze them before slicing. Slice and cook directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the cooking time.
- Storage: Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Flavor Variations: Add sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or sautéed mushrooms for an extra burst of flavor.
Enjoy these Pesto Mozzarella Pinwheels as a quick and delicious snack that’s sure to impress! 😊