Are you looking for a stunning and surprisingly simple appetizer to impress your guests? Look no further! These phyllo pastry cup appetizers are the perfect solution for your next gathering. They're elegant enough for a party, yet easy enough for a weeknight dinner, making them a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. These homemade cooking creations are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Get ready to discover the best recipes for these delightful little bites.
Ingredients:
- 1 package (14.1 oz) phyllo dough, thawed
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup chopped Kalamata olives
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Preparing the Phyllo Cups:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin. This will prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of your finished phyllo cups.
- Cut the phyllo sheets: Carefully unfold the phyllo dough and cut each sheet into four equal squares.
- Assemble the cups: Using a pastry brush, lightly brush a phyllo square with melted butter. Layer another buttered phyllo square on top, creating a double layer. Repeat until you have three or four layers per cup, depending on the desired thickness and crispness.
- Form the cups: Gently press the phyllo stack into each cup of the muffin tin. The phyllo dough will be pliable enough to mold; simply tuck and press the edges to form a cup shape. Trim any excess phyllo hanging over the edges.
- Bake: Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the phyllo cups are golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly in the tin before carefully removing them.
Creating the Filling:
- Combine ingredients: In a medium bowl, gently combine the crumbled feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, basil, olives, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Avoid overmixing to prevent the feta from becoming too crumbly.
- Fill the cups: Once the phyllo cups have cooled slightly, spoon the feta mixture into each cup, filling them generously.
Serving Suggestions and Variations:
These phyllo cups are incredibly versatile! The suggested filling is just a starting point. Feel free to experiment with different delicious combinations:
- Mediterranean Delight: Swap the feta for goat cheese and add artichoke hearts and roasted red peppers.
- Spicy Fiesta: Use a blend of shredded Mexican cheeses, black beans, corn, and a touch of chili powder.
- Creamy Mushroom: Sauté mushrooms with garlic and thyme, then mix with cream cheese and chives.
Serving these delightful appetizers warm or at room temperature allows for easy preparation ahead of time, making them perfect for parties and gatherings. They pair exceptionally well with a crisp white wine or a light rosé.
Nutritional Information (per cup, approximate):
- Calories: Around 150-200 (depending on filling)
- Fat: 10-15g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
These phyllo pastry cup appetizers are a testament to the fact that delicious dishes don't have to be complicated. They're a fantastic example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor and presentation, making them perfect for both experienced cooks and beginners. Enjoy!