Pesto, Prosciutto & Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle approximately 25cm x 30cm (10” x 12”).
3. Spread the pesto evenly over the entire surface of the pastry, leaving a 1cm (½”) border on one long edge.
4. Layer the prosciutto slices over the pesto, covering the surface evenly.
5. Sprinkle the shredded cheese and Parmesan over the prosciutto. Add black pepper and red pepper flakes if desired.
6. Roll the pastry tightly from the long edge without the border, creating a log. Brush the border with beaten egg and seal the seam.
7. Chill the log in the freezer for 10-15 minutes to firm up for easier slicing.
8. Slice the log into 2cm (¾”) thick rounds using a sharp knife.
9. Arrange the pinwheels cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 5cm (2”) apart.
10. Brush the tops with beaten egg wash for a golden finish.
11. Bake for 20-25 minutes until puffed, golden brown, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
12. Cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Tips

• Keep the puff pastry cold while working with it for the flakiest results
• Experiment with different pestos (sun-dried tomato, arugula) for variety
• These can be assembled ahead and frozen unbaked for up to 1 month​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Salad & Side Pairings

These rich, flaky pinwheels pair wonderfully with fresh, bright sides that provide contrast and balance:

Fresh Salads:

• Cole Slaw Mongolian Style
• Simple Carrot Salad
• 🥕 Carrot & Apple Salad with Cranberries and Toasted Nuts
• Refreshing Mediterranean Lentil Salad
• Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant Salad
• Blueberry Beet Chicken Salad with Pine Nuts
• Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette - The peppery bite and citrus dressing cut through the buttery pastry perfectly. Toss with shaved Parmesan, pine nuts, and a squeeze of fresh lemon.
• Caprese Salad - Stay with the Italian theme using fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil. The cool, fresh flavors complement the warm, savory pinwheels beautifully.
• Mixed Greens with Balsamic Glaze - A simple salad of spring mix, cherry tomatoes, and red onion drizzled with balsamic reduction offers a sweet-tart contrast.
• Caesar Salad - The creamy, garlicky dressing and crisp romaine create a classic pairing with any Italian-inspired appetizer.
• Spinach and Strawberry Salad - For something unexpected, the sweetness of fresh berries with tangy goat cheese and candied pecans provides a delightful contrast.

Vegetable Sides:

• Roasted Cherry Tomatoes - Burst tomatoes with garlic and herbs add juicy, acidic pops of flavor.
• Marinated Olives - A Mediterranean olive medley adds briny, savory notes.
• Grilled or Roasted Vegetables - Zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant complement the Italian flavors beautifully.
• Antipasto Platter - Arrange marinated artichokes, roasted red peppers, olives, and fresh mozzarella for an impressive spread.

Fresh Fruit:

• Melon and Prosciutto - Since your pinwheels already have prosciutto, fresh cantaloupe or honeydew provides sweet relief.
• Grapes and Berries - Simple, elegant, and naturally sweet to balance the savory richness.
• Fig and Honey Platter - Fresh or dried figs with a drizzle of honey and some crusty bread round out an Italian-inspired menu.

The Perfect Brunch or Lunch Spread:

Serve these pinwheels alongside a crisp green salad and fresh fruit for an effortless yet impressive brunch or light lunch. Add a charcuterie board with additional cheeses, nuts, and crackers, and you have a complete entertaining spread that looks like you spent hours preparing but took you less than an hour total!​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Wine & Beverage Pairings

These savory pinwheels pair beautifully with a variety of drinks:

Wine Selections:

• Prosecco or Champagne - The bubbles and acidity cut through the richness of the pastry and cheese
• Pinot Grigio - A crisp, light white wine that complements the pesto without overwhelming it
• Chianti or Sangiovese - For red wine lovers, these Italian varietals echo the Mediterranean flavors
• Rosé - A dry rosé offers versatility and freshness

Non-Alcoholic Options:

• Sparkling water with lemon - Cleanses the palate between bites
• Iced tea - Unsweetened or lightly sweetened varieties work wonderfully
• Italian soda - For a festive, fizzy option
• Homemade lemonade - The tartness balances the savory richness