Broccoli Cheese Strudel: A Delightful Savory Treat
If you’re looking for a delicious and unique dish to impress your family or guests, look no further than broccoli cheese strudel. This delightful pastry combines the rich flavors of cheese and the nutritious crunch of broccoli, all wrapped in a flaky strudel dough. Perfect as an appetizer or a main dish, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Let’s dive into how you can create this scrumptious treat.
Ingredients
To make broccoli cheese strudel, you will need the following ingredients:
1. Fresh broccoli – 2 cups, finely chopped
2. Cream cheese – 8 ounces, softened
3. Shredded cheddar cheese – 1 cup
4. Puff pastry sheets – 2 sheets (thawed if frozen)
5. Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped
6. Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
7. Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
8. Salt – ½ teaspoon
9. Pepper – ¼ teaspoon
10. Egg – 1 large (for egg wash)
11. Sesame seeds (optional) – for topping
Instructions
Start by following these simple steps to create your broccoli cheese strudel.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). This ensures that your strudel gets perfectly golden and crispy.
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
Prepare the Broccoli Filling
Add the finely chopped broccoli to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes until it softens slightly. Remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
Mix the Cheese
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese with salt and pepper. Stir in the cooled broccoli mixture until everything is well incorporated.
Roll Out the Pastry
On a lightly floured surface, roll out one sheet of puff pastry into a rectangle approximately 12 x 16 inches in size. Repeat with the second sheet of pastry.
Fill and Roll the Strudel
Place half of the broccoli cheese mixture along one edge of each pastry sheet, leaving space at the edges for sealing. Carefully roll up each pastry sheet tightly from one end to another, creating a log shape.
Seal the Edges
Pinch together the edges of each rolled pastry to seal them well. You can also use a fork to press down on the edges for added security.
Egg Wash
Beat one egg in a small bowl and brush it over each strudel for a beautiful golden finish during baking.
Top with Seeds (Optional)
If desired, sprinkle sesame seeds over the top of each strudel before baking.
Bake
Place both strudels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown and flaky.
Cool Slightly Before Serving
Once out of the oven, allow your broccoli cheese strudels to cool for about five minutes before slicing them into pieces.
Serve Warm
Enjoy your delicious broccoli cheese strudel warm as an appetizer or alongside a salad as a main dish!
Tips and tricks
To make the perfect broccoli cheese strudel, start with fresh ingredients. Choose vibrant broccoli and high-quality cheese for the best flavor. When preparing your strudel, ensure that you finely chop the broccoli so it mixes well with the cheese. A good tip is to sauté the broccoli briefly to soften it before adding it to the cheese mixture. This step helps to release moisture, ensuring that your strudel does not become soggy.
Use thawed puff pastry for a flaky texture. Roll it out slightly before filling, as this gives you more surface area and helps achieve an even cooking. Brush the top with egg wash for a golden finish. If you’re looking for variations, consider adding spices like garlic powder or red pepper flakes for extra zest. Serve your freshly baked strudel warm to enjoy its full flavor.
FAQs
What is a broccoli cheese strudel?
Broccoli cheese strudel is a savory pastry filled with a delicious mixture of broccoli and cheese, all wrapped in flaky puff pastry. This dish combines textures and flavors that appeal to both children and adults. It makes for an excellent appetizer or main dish and can be served with a side salad or dipping sauce. The versatility of this recipe allows for variations in fillings as well, making it a favorite among many home cooks.
How do I store leftovers of broccoli cheese strudel?
To store leftover broccoli cheese strudel, allow it to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it later, freezing is also an option. Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag or container. When ready to eat, reheat in the oven to restore its crispy texture.
Can I make broccoli cheese strudel ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare broccoli cheese strudel ahead of time! Make the filling and assemble the strudel without baking it. Cover it well with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time when serving guests or during busy weeknights.
This recipe for broccoli cheese strudel brings together simple ingredients to create a delightful dish that everyone will love. The flaky pastry combined with cheesy goodness makes each bite satisfying and enjoyable. Try making this dish at home, and watch as your family asks for seconds!