Smoked Swordfish Puff Pastry Bites: A Savory Italian Appetizer
This delightful Italian appetizer, Smoked Swordfish Puff Pastry Bites, features a crispy puff pastry base topped with delicate, smoky swordfish and a hint of citrus from lime zest. Ideal for gatherings or as an elegant start to any meal, these savory treats are a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a light bite to serve at a special occasion, these puff pastry bites are sure to impress!
Ingredients (Yields 25 Bites)
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Puff Pastry | 1 sheet |
| Smoked Swordfish | 8 slices |
| Grana Padano Cheese (DOP) | 30g |
| Sunflower Seeds | 20g |
| Mixed Peppercorns | To taste |
| Whole Milk | To taste |
| Lime Zest | 1 lime |
| Water | 50g |
| Sugar | 1 tbsp |
| Coarse Salt | Β½ tsp |
Instructions
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Prepare the Lime Zest:
Start by preparing the lime. Wash and dry it thoroughly. Using a vegetable peeler, carefully remove only the green part of the lime’s skin. Set it aside for later.
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Make the Lime Syrup:
In a small saucepan, combine the water, sugar, and coarse salt. Stir to dissolve the sugar, then cover the pan with plastic wrap or a lid. Let the mixture macerate for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend. -
Prepare the Grana Padano Mix:
While the syrup is macerating, grate the Grana Padano cheese into a small bowl. Add a generous amount of freshly ground mixed pepper and stir well to combine. -
Prepare the Puff Pastry:
Unroll the puff pastry sheet onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Using a fork or a pastry tool, gently prick the surface of the pastry to prevent it from puffing too much during baking. Brush the top lightly with a little milk for a golden, glossy finish. -
Bake the Puff Pastry:
Preheat your oven to 200Β°C (400Β°F), and bake the pastry in the center of the oven for about 12 minutes, or until it becomes golden and crisp. -
Cut the Pastry:
Once the pastry is baked and slightly cooled, cut it into 6×5 cm rectangles. You should have 25 perfect pieces. -
Prepare the Smoked Swordfish:
Place the smoked swordfish slices on a clean cutting board. Using a sharp knife, cut each slice into 25 strips. Then, gently roll each strip to form little spiral “rosettes.” -
Assemble the Puff Pastry Bites:
Place one smoked swordfish rosette on each piece of puff pastry, ensuring the rolled strips rest gently on the pastry. The combination of smoky fish and crispy pastry will create a delicious contrast. -
Final Touches:
Sprinkle the tops of the puff pastry bites with sunflower seeds for an added crunch and a touch of elegance. Finish with a light grating of lime zest over the top for a citrusy aroma that complements the smoky flavor. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Your Smoked Swordfish Puff Pastry Bites are now ready to serve! These bite-sized delights are perfect for sharing, offering a sophisticated blend of flavors that are sure to impress your guests.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 1 Bite)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 60 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 4g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Fat | 4g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Cholesterol | 5mg |
| Sodium | 120mg |
| Fiber | 0.5g |
| Sugar | 1g |
Tips and Variations:
- Swordfish Substitutes: If you canβt find smoked swordfish, smoked salmon or any other smoked fish will work just as well in this recipe, offering a slightly different flavor profile.
- Add Fresh Herbs: For extra flavor, you can sprinkle some fresh herbs like dill or parsley on top before serving.
- Make Ahead: The puff pastry can be baked and stored for up to 1 day in advance. Just assemble the bites right before serving to maintain their crispiness.
These puff pastry bites are perfect for all occasions, from casual dinners to sophisticated appetizers at formal gatherings. The combination of delicate puff pastry, smoky swordfish, and zesty lime makes for a unique and delicious starter your guests will love!
