Star-Shaped Pesto Dip (Print View)

Creamy pesto filling inside a crisp star-shaped puff pastry with savory edges for easy serving.

# Components:

→ Pesto Dip

01 - 7 oz cream cheese, softened
02 - 3.5 oz ricotta cheese
03 - 2.8 oz basil pesto
04 - 1 garlic clove, finely minced
05 - 0.7 oz grated Parmesan cheese
06 - 1 tbsp lemon juice
07 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

→ Star Shape & Cracker Edges

08 - 1 sheet puff pastry (about 9 oz), thawed
09 - 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
10 - 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
11 - Extra Parmesan cheese, for sprinkling

# Preparation Steps:

01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to about 1/8 inch thick. Using a large star-shaped cookie cutter about 8 inches across, cut out a star shape and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
03 - Cut remaining pastry into strips approximately 1/2 inch wide. Arrange these strips around the edges of the star to form a raised border and press gently to seal.
04 - Brush the pastry edges with beaten egg. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
05 - Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp. Let cool completely on a wire rack.
06 - In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, ricotta, basil pesto, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
07 - Once the pastry base has cooled, transfer it carefully to a serving platter. Spoon the pesto dip into the center of the star and spread evenly within the raised border. Serve immediately using crispy pastry edges to scoop up the dip.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Delightful star shape adds festive charm to any table.
  • Creamy pesto dip packed with fresh basil flavor and cheesy richness.
  • Crispy puff pastry edges provide the perfect vehicle to scoop up the dip.
  • Simple to prepare with basic ingredients and easy steps.
  • Suitable for vegetarians and pairs beautifully with white wines.
02 -
  • Use a large star cookie cutter to make the star shape prominent and festive.
  • Applying an egg wash ensures a beautiful golden color and helps sesame seeds and parmesan adhere.
  • Let the pastry cool completely before adding the dip to avoid sogginess.
  • For easier cutting, lightly flour your surface and rolling pin when handling puff pastry.
  • If making homemade pesto, adjust salt and oil levels to keep dip balanced and creamy.
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