Asparagus Roll Ups Recipe

After a long week, nothing quite brightens up our weekend brunch like a dish that’s both elegant and incredibly easy to make. Asparagus Roll Ups have become a firm favorite in our household, and honestly, they’re requested almost every other week now! The first time I made them, I was looking for something a little different to serve alongside our usual eggs and toast. The vibrant green spears peeking out from the golden, flaky pastry immediately caught my eye in a recipe book. Intrigued, I gave it a go, and wow, were we impressed! The combination of crisp, buttery puff pastry with the tender, slightly earthy asparagus, all wrapped up with a touch of creamy cheese, is simply divine. Even my kids, who can be a bit picky with their veggies, devoured these. They call them “green veggie cigars” which always makes me chuckle. Whether you’re serving them as a delightful appetizer for a gathering, a sophisticated side dish for dinner, or a special treat for breakfast, Asparagus Roll Ups are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. They’re so versatile and quick to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend mornings alike. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a staple in your recipe repertoire too!

Ingredients

• Puff Pastry: (1 sheet, about 14 ounces) – Provides the flaky, buttery base for the roll-ups. Thaw it according to package directions.
• Fresh Asparagus: (1 pound, about 24-30 spears) – The star of the dish, choose firm, bright green spears of similar thickness for even cooking. Trim the woody ends.
• Cream Cheese: (4 ounces, softened) – Adds a creamy, tangy filling that complements the asparagus. Use full-fat or reduced-fat depending on your preference.
• Parmesan Cheese: (1/2 cup, grated) – Provides a salty, nutty flavor and helps create a golden crust when baked. Freshly grated is always best for flavor.
• Garlic Powder: (1 teaspoon) – Enhances the savory flavor of the filling.
• Dried Italian Herbs: (1 teaspoon) – Adds an aromatic herbaceous note to the roll-ups. You can use a mix of oregano, basil, rosemary, and thyme.
• Egg: (1 large) – Used for an egg wash to give the pastry a beautiful golden-brown color and a slight sheen.
• Everything Bagel Seasoning: (Optional, for topping) – Adds a crunchy texture and extra flavor. Sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, and dried onion create a savory and slightly salty topping.

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
2. Prepare Asparagus: Wash the asparagus spears thoroughly under cold water. Snap off the woody ends of the asparagus. To do this, hold a spear near the base and bend it gently. It will naturally break at the point where the tender part begins. Discard the woody ends. If your asparagus spears are very thick, you might want to quickly blanch them for 2-3 minutes in boiling water and then immediately plunge them into ice water to stop the cooking process. This ensures they are tender-crisp after baking and not too tough. For thinner spears, blanching is usually not necessary. Pat the asparagus spears dry with paper towels. Excess moisture can make the puff pastry soggy.
3. Prepare Cream Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and dried Italian herbs. Mix everything together until well combined and smooth. Ensure the cream cheese is properly softened so that it blends easily with the other ingredients. You can use a fork or a hand mixer for this step. Taste the filling and adjust seasonings if needed. A pinch of salt or black pepper can be added to enhance the flavor.
4. Roll Out Puff Pastry: Lightly flour a clean work surface. Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet onto the floured surface. If your puff pastry is very cold, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to become slightly more pliable, but not too soft, or it will be difficult to handle. Gently roll out the puff pastry sheet slightly to even it out and make it a little thinner. Aim for a rectangle approximately 12×14 inches. Be careful not to roll it too thin, or it may become too delicate and tear.
5. Spread Cream Cheese Filling: Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the puff pastry sheet, leaving a small border of about ½ inch clear around the edges. This border helps to seal the roll-ups and prevents the filling from oozing out too much during baking. Spread the filling in a thin, even layer to ensure each roll-up gets a good amount of flavor.
6. Cut Pastry into Strips: Using a pizza cutter or a sharp knife, cut the puff pastry sheet into strips. Cut lengthwise, about 1-inch wide. The number of strips will depend on the size of your pastry sheet. You should aim to get roughly 24-30 strips, depending on how wide you make them and the size of your asparagus spears.
7. Assemble the Roll-Ups: Take one asparagus spear and place it at the end of a pastry strip. Starting from the end with the asparagus spear, roll up the pastry strip around the asparagus, slightly overlapping as you go. Ensure the asparagus tip is peeking out from one end of the roll-up. Place the assembled roll-up seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining asparagus spears and pastry strips. Space the roll-ups evenly on the baking sheet, leaving a little room between them so they can bake and crisp up properly.
8. Prepare Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg with a tablespoon of water to create an egg wash. This will give the roll-ups a beautiful golden-brown color and a slight sheen.
9. Brush with Egg Wash and Sprinkle with Seasoning: Brush the top of each asparagus roll-up with the egg wash using a pastry brush. Be sure to brush evenly for consistent color. If desired, sprinkle the tops of the roll-ups with everything bagel seasoning or just a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese. This adds extra flavor and texture.
10. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and puffed up. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-browning. The pastry should be cooked through and crispy, and the asparagus should be tender-crisp.
11. Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the asparagus roll-ups cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before serving. This allows them to firm up slightly and makes them easier to handle. Serve warm. They are best enjoyed fresh from the oven when the pastry is at its flakiest and the filling is warm and creamy.

Nutrition Facts

(Per Serving, approximately 2 roll-ups. Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.)

• Servings: 12-15 (depending on size and number of roll-ups made)
• Calories: Approximately 180-220 kcal per serving
• Fat: 12-15g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (includes thawing pastry, preparing filling, and assembling roll-ups)
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes (baking time in the oven)
• Total Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes (from start to finish, ready to serve)
• Description: This recipe is wonderfully quick to prepare, making it ideal for last-minute appetizers or a speedy side dish. The majority of the time is spent in assembly, which is straightforward, and the baking time is relatively short, ensuring you can have these delicious Asparagus Roll Ups on the table in under 40 minutes.

How to Serve

Asparagus Roll Ups are incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways, making them perfect for various occasions. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Appetizer for Parties and Gatherings:
  • Arrange them beautifully on a platter for cocktail parties, holiday gatherings, or game day snacks.
  • Serve with a dipping sauce like ranch dressing, honey mustard, or a creamy dill sauce on the side.
  • They are easy to eat standing up, making them ideal for mingling guests.
• Brunch or Breakfast Side Dish:
  • Serve alongside scrambled eggs, omelets, or frittatas for a more substantial and elegant brunch.
  • Pair them with a fresh fruit salad and yogurt for a balanced and delightful breakfast spread.
  • They add a touch of sophistication to a weekend brunch table.
• Lunch or Light Meal:
  • Combine them with a light green salad or a bowl of soup for a satisfying and nutritious lunch.
  • Pack them in lunchboxes for a tasty and enjoyable midday treat.
  • They are a great alternative to sandwiches or wraps for a light meal.
• Dinner Side Dish:
  • Serve as a flavorful side dish alongside roasted chicken, grilled fish, or steak.
  • They complement pasta dishes and vegetarian entrees beautifully.
  • Their vibrant green color adds visual appeal to any dinner plate.
• Picnics and Potlucks:
  • They travel well and can be enjoyed at room temperature, making them perfect for picnics and potlucks.
  • Pack them in a container to prevent crushing and bring along your favorite dipping sauce.
  • They are a welcome addition to any outdoor meal.
• With Dips:
  • Offer a variety of dipping sauces to cater to different tastes, such as:
    • Ranch Dressing: Classic and creamy, a crowd-pleaser.
    • Honey Mustard: Sweet and tangy, complements the savory roll-ups.
    • Creamy Dill Sauce: Fresh and herbaceous, enhances the asparagus flavor.
    • Marinara Sauce: For a different flavor profile, especially if you add Italian seasoning to the roll-ups.
    • Spicy Mayo: For those who like a little heat.

Additional Tips for Perfect Asparagus Roll Ups

1. Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Ensure there is enough space between the roll-ups on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of baking, resulting in soggy bottoms and uneven cooking. Bake in batches if necessary to ensure proper air circulation.
2. Adjust Baking Time Based on Asparagus Thickness: If you are using very thin asparagus spears, they may cook faster. Check for doneness around 15 minutes. If using thicker spears, they may require a few extra minutes of baking. The asparagus should be tender-crisp, not mushy.
3. Use Good Quality Puff Pastry: The quality of your puff pastry greatly impacts the final result. All-butter puff pastry will give the best flavor and flakiness. Look for a reputable brand for optimal results.
4. Soften Cream Cheese Properly: Ensure your cream cheese is adequately softened before mixing it with other ingredients. This will make it easier to create a smooth, lump-free filling that spreads evenly on the puff pastry. Leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour, or microwave it in short bursts if needed.
5. Customize the Filling: Feel free to customize the cream cheese filling to your liking. You can add other cheeses like Gruyere, mozzarella, or cheddar. Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as red pepper flakes for a little heat, or fresh herbs like chives or parsley. A squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten the flavor.
6. Make Ahead and Bake Later: You can assemble the asparagus roll-ups ahead of time and store them unbaked in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Cover them loosely with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. When ready to bake, brush them with egg wash and bake as directed. This is a great time-saver for parties or busy days.
7. Use Different Toppings: Get creative with toppings beyond everything bagel seasoning. Try sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried herbs, or a sprinkle of coarse salt and black pepper. For a cheesy topping, use extra grated Parmesan or a blend of Italian cheeses.
8. Prevent Soggy Bottoms: To ensure crispy bottoms, you can place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet and bake the roll-ups on the rack. This allows for better air circulation around the roll-ups and helps prevent soggy bottoms. Alternatively, make sure your oven is properly preheated and the baking sheet is hot before placing the roll-ups in the oven.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use frozen asparagus for this recipe?
A: Fresh asparagus is highly recommended for the best texture and flavor in Asparagus Roll Ups. Frozen asparagus tends to be more watery and can become mushy after baking. If you must use frozen asparagus, make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible before using. You may also need to adjust the baking time slightly as frozen asparagus can release more water during cooking.

Q2: Can I make these roll-ups vegetarian or vegan?
A: Yes, you can easily make these vegetarian. To make them vegan, you would need to substitute the cream cheese and Parmesan cheese with vegan alternatives. There are many delicious vegan cream cheeses and Parmesan-style cheeses available in most grocery stores. Ensure your puff pastry is also vegan, as some brands use butter. For the egg wash, you can use plant-based milk or a mixture of maple syrup and olive oil to achieve a golden-brown finish.

Q3: How do I store leftover Asparagus Roll Ups?
A: Leftover Asparagus Roll Ups can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. They are best reheated to maintain their crispiness.

Q4: What’s the best way to reheat Asparagus Roll Ups?
A: The best way to reheat Asparagus Roll Ups is in the oven or an air fryer to maintain their crispiness. Preheat your oven or air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and reheat them for about 5-10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving them, as this can make the pastry soggy.

Q5: Can I add meat to these roll-ups?
A: Yes, you can add meat to Asparagus Roll Ups for a heartier appetizer or snack. Cooked and crumbled bacon, prosciutto, or ham would be delicious additions. Simply sprinkle the cooked meat over the cream cheese filling before rolling up the pastry.

Q6: My puff pastry is cracking when I roll it, what should I do?
A: If your puff pastry is cracking, it’s likely either too cold or too warm. If it’s too cold, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to become slightly more pliable. If it’s too warm, it might be getting sticky and harder to handle. In that case, chill it in the refrigerator for a few minutes to firm up. When rolling, use gentle pressure and avoid overworking the pastry.

Q7: Can I use pre-cut puff pastry strips to save time?
A: While pre-cut puff pastry strips might seem convenient, they may not be as wide as needed for this recipe, and they can sometimes be more expensive. It’s generally more economical and versatile to use a sheet of puff pastry and cut it into strips yourself. However, if you find pre-cut strips that are appropriately sized, you can certainly use them to save a step.

Q8: What are some other vegetables I can use instead of asparagus?
A: While asparagus is the star of this recipe, you can experiment with other vegetables. Broccoli florets (blanched), green beans (blanched), or even thinly sliced zucchini or bell peppers could work well. Just ensure any vegetables you use are tender-crisp and not too watery to avoid soggy roll-ups. Adjust cooking time as needed based on the vegetable you choose.

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