Save A festive, savory dip featuring creamy pesto filling shaped into a star and surrounded by crispy cracker edges—perfect for parties or holiday gatherings.
This dip has been a hit at every holiday party I've brought it to, loved by both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
- For the Pesto Dip: 200 g cream cheese, softened, 100 g ricotta cheese, 80 g basil pesto (store-bought or homemade), 1 garlic clove, finely minced, 20 g grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tbsp lemon juice, salt and black pepper, to taste
- For the Star Shape & Cracker Edges: 1 sheet puff pastry (about 250 g), thawed, 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash), 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish), extra Parmesan cheese, for sprinkling
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll and Cut Pastry:
- Roll out the puff pastry to about 3 mm thick. Using a large star-shaped cookie cutter (about 20 cm across), cut out a star shape and place on the baking sheet.
- Form Edges:
- Cut strips about 1.5 cm wide from remaining pastry. Arrange around star edges to form a raised border, pressing gently to seal.
- Egg Wash and Garnish:
- Brush pastry edges with beaten egg. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Bake:
- Bake for 10–12 minutes until golden brown and crisp. Cool completely on a wire rack.
- Prepare Dip:
- In a bowl, combine cream cheese, ricotta, pesto, garlic, Parmesan, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble:
- Once pastry base has cooled, transfer to serving platter. Spoon pesto dip into star center and spread evenly.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately using crispy pastry edges as crackers to scoop dip.
Save My family eagerly gathers around this dip every holiday, making it a treasured tradition.
Variations
Try adding sun-dried tomatoes or chopped olives to the pesto dip for extra flavor twists.
Pairings
This dip pairs wonderfully with crisp white wines such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
Allergen Info
Contains gluten (puff pastry), milk (cream cheese, ricotta, Parmesan), and eggs. May contain nuts if pesto includes pine nuts.
Save This star-shaped pesto dip is both a feast for the eyes and the taste buds, perfect for any festive occasion.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of cheese is used in the filling?
The filling combines cream cheese, ricotta, and grated Parmesan for a creamy, flavorful base.
- → Can I use homemade pesto for this dish?
Yes, homemade basil pesto works beautifully and adds a fresh, vibrant flavor.
- → How do I keep the pastry edges crisp?
Brushing the pastry edges with beaten egg and baking until golden ensures a crisp, crunchy texture.
- → Are there any suggested variations for added flavor?
Adding sun-dried tomatoes or chopped olives to the filling introduces extra depth and a Mediterranean twist.
- → What is the best way to serve this dish?
Serve the star-shaped pastry with the pesto filling immediately, using the crisp edges to scoop up the creamy center.
- → Is gluten-free pastry suitable for this preparation?
Gluten-free puff pastry can be used to accommodate dietary needs without compromising texture much.