Eggplant Puff Pastry Rolls: Delicious Appetizer!

Eggplant Pastry Rolls are a tasty appetizer or light main course that combines the rich flavors of eggplant, smoked chicken, and melted cheese, all wrapped in a crispy puff pastry shell. These elegant bites are perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying as a substantial snack.

Creating these flavorful rolls is surprisingly easy. The process involves roasting eggplant slices until tender, layering them with cheese, savory smoked chicken, and fresh basil, then rolling them up in flaky puff pastry. A quick brush of egg wash and a sprinkle of sesame seeds add a golden finish before baking to perfection. This dish is versatile and can be adapted to suit your preferences.

While eggplant is widely available year-round, it shines in the summer months when it's at its peak flavor. So, whether you're hosting a garden party or simply looking for a new weeknight dinner idea, these eggplant pastry rolls are sure to impress.

What Are Eggplant Pastry Rolls?

Eggplant pastry rolls are a combination of Mediterranean and European flavors. This dish features roasted eggplant slices layered with cheese, smoked chicken, and fresh herbs, all wrapped in a buttery puff pastry and baked to golden perfection. The result? A perfect blend of textures and tastes, making it a versatile appetizer or light meal.

While eggplant has been a staple in Mediterranean cuisine for centuries, the specific combination of eggplant and puff pastry is a relatively modern culinary creation. The flaky, buttery puff pastry provides a delightful contrast to the creamy, savory eggplant filling, making it a popular choice for both home cooks and chefs.

Eggplant pastry rolls can be easily customized with different fillings, such as spinach and feta or roasted red peppers and goat cheese.

Tips

• Make sure to properly roast the eggplant (and not boil it). Roasting eggplant brings out its natural sweetness and creates a tender texture.
• Drain the eggplant well. Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the eggplant before adding it to the filling.
• Experiment with different cheeses, herbs, and spices to customize your filling.
• Keep the puff pastry cold. Puff pastry works best when cold. Handle it gently to prevent it from becoming too soft.
• Press the edges of the puff pastry together firmly to prevent the filling from escaping during baking.
• Preheat your oven to the correct temperature to ensure the puff pastry rises to its full potential.
• Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to allow for even airflow. Keep a close eye on the rolls to prevent over-browning. Bake until the pastry is golden and puffed up for optimal texture.
• Add a kick of spice with smoked paprika and replace the chicken with pepperoni. Mozzarella cheese is a classic choice for a melty and gooey center.
• For Mediterranean flavors, use sun-dried tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh

How Do I Prevent the Eggplant from Being Soggy?

Ensure the eggplant slices are thoroughly drained after roasting. Salting the eggplant before roasting can also help draw out excess moisture.

Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?

Absolutely! Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, provolone, or even goat cheese.

What Kind of Smoked Chicken Should I Use?

Smoked chicken breast or pulled smoked chicken works well. You can also use pre-cooked smoked chicken for convenience.

Can I Make These Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can assemble the rolls and refrigerate them until ready to bake. However, baking them fresh is recommended for the best flavor and texture.

What Can I Serve with Eggplant Puff Pastry Rolls?

These rolls are great as an appetizer or main course. They pair well with a light salad or a dipping sauce like marinara or ranch.

How to Store Eggplant Pastry Rolls

For best results, serve eggplant pastry rolls fresh from the oven. However, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

How To Make Eggplant Pastry Rolls

Trim the top of the eggplant and slice it lengthwise into thick rounds.

Arrange the eggplant slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet, season with salt, and drizzle with olive oil.

Roast in a preheated 180°C (360°F) oven for 20 minutes until tender.

Create the filling by layering smoked chicken, cheese, and basil on each roasted eggplant slice.

Tightly roll up the eggplant slices to form pinwheels.

Unroll the puff pastry sheet and cut it into long strips, then halve the strips lengthwise.

Place the eggplant on top of the pastry squares. And fold over the edges.

Wrap each eggplant roll in a puff pastry strip, sealing the edges tightly.

Place the wrapped eggplant rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Use a sharp knife to cut slits on top of the pastry.

Brush the tops with a beaten egg and milk mixture and sprinkle with black sesame seeds.

Bake in a preheated 180°C (360°F) oven for 30 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden and crispy.