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Crispy High-Protein Asparagus Puff Pastry Bites

crispy high-protein asparagus puff pastry bites - featured image

These crispy high-protein asparagus puff pastry bites combine flaky, buttery pastry with a creamy cottage cheese filling and tender roasted asparagus for a quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed (about 17.3 oz total)
  • 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces (about 1 lb)
  • 1 cup small-curd cottage cheese, well-drained
  • 1 large egg, room temperature (for egg wash)
  • 1/3 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Fresh herbs (chopped chives or parsley, optional for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
  2. Trim the woody ends of the asparagus and cut into 2-inch pieces. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on the baking sheet and roast for 8-10 minutes until just tender but still bright green. Remove and let cool slightly.
  3. In a food processor, blend cottage cheese, Parmesan, garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, mash cottage cheese with a fork and mix all ingredients in a bowl.
  4. On a lightly floured surface, unfold each puff pastry sheet and gently roll to smooth creases. Cut each sheet into 12 equal squares (about 3×3 inches), for a total of 24 squares.
  5. Place a teaspoon of the cottage cheese mixture in the center of each square. Top with 2-3 roasted asparagus pieces arranged neatly.
  6. Fold the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or fold corners toward the center to partially enclose the filling. Press edges gently to seal, using a fork if needed.
  7. Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush over each puff pastry bite for a golden, crispy finish.
  8. Arrange bites on the baking sheet with space between. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
  9. Let the bites cool for 5 minutes on the tray. Sprinkle with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
  10. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Keep puff pastry chilled until ready to roll to prevent stickiness. Do not overfill pastry pockets to avoid leaking. Brushing with egg wash is essential for a golden, crispy finish. Roasting asparagus beforehand removes excess moisture and preserves texture. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheat in an oven or toaster oven for best crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: asparagus, puff pastry, high-protein snack, easy snack, appetizer, vegetarian, quick recipe