🍽️ Artichoke Parmesan Phyllo Cups – A Delicious Appetizer 🍽️
What is it?
Artichoke Parmesan Phyllo Cups are delightful appetizers that combine the rich, creamy flavors of artichoke and Parmesan cheese in a crispy, flaky phyllo dough cup. These savory bites make for a perfect addition to any party, gathering, or even as a starter for a special meal.
History:
The precise origin of this specific dish isn’t well-documented, but it’s inspired by Mediterranean and Greek cuisine, where artichokes and phyllo pastry are commonly used ingredients. The combination of artichoke and Parmesan is a match made in culinary heaven, known for its flavorful and indulgent profile.
Components:
- Phyllo Dough: Thin, delicate pastry sheets used to create the cups’ crispy shells.
- Artichoke Hearts: Typically canned or jarred, artichoke hearts add a distinctive flavor and texture.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan cheese contributes a savory, nutty taste.
- Cream Cheese: It provides creaminess and helps bind the filling.
- Seasonings: Ingredients like garlic, lemon juice, and herbs are often used for flavor.
- Butter: To brush the phyllo cups and make them golden and crispy.
Steps to Prepare:
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 35 minutes
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready when the cups are prepared.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine chopped artichoke hearts, cream cheese, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, lemon juice, and your choice of herbs and seasonings. Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Phyllo Cups
- Carefully unroll the phyllo dough sheets and cut them into squares or rectangles, depending on the size of cups you want.
- Layer two or three phyllo sheets, brushing each one with melted butter before adding the next. This layering creates the crispy cups.
Step 4: Fill the Cups
- Place a spoonful of the artichoke and Parmesan mixture into each phyllo cup.
Step 5: Bake
- Arrange the filled cups on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Serve
- Once done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Serve these delectable treats warm, garnished with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a touch of herbs.
🕒 Total Time: Approximately 35 minutes from start to finish.
These Artichoke Parmesan Phyllo Cups are a crowd-pleaser, combining the delightful crunch of phyllo pastry with a rich and savory filling. Enjoy them at your next gathering, and your guests are sure to be impressed! 😋🧀🥟
Nutrition facts and health information for Artichoke Parmesan Phyllo Cups:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate values per serving, may vary based on specific ingredients and portion size):
- Calories: 90-110 kcal
- Total Fat: 6-8g
- Saturated Fat: 3-4g
- Cholesterol: 15-20mg
- Sodium: 150-200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 7-9g
- Dietary Fiber: 1-2g
- Sugars: 1-2g
- Protein: 2-4g
Health Information:
- Artichokes are a good source of dietary fiber, which can aid digestion and help regulate blood sugar levels.
- Parmesan cheese, while high in saturated fat and sodium, provides protein and calcium, essential for bone health.
- Phyllo dough is low in saturated fat but high in carbohydrates, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation.
- Cream cheese adds creaminess and flavor, but it’s also high in saturated fat and calories.
- Be mindful of portion size when enjoying these delicious treats, as they can be calorie-dense due to the use of pastry and cheese.
- Consider incorporating additional vegetables or using low-fat alternatives to reduce the calorie and fat content while still enjoying the flavors.
It’s important to savor these Artichoke Parmesan Phyllo Cups in moderation as an occasional treat due to their relatively high calorie and fat content. Balancing them with a variety of nutrient-rich foods is key to maintaining a well-rounded diet. 🍽️🥗
