Puff Pastry Perfection: Boursin & Tomato Squares Recipe

These Boursin & Tomato Puff Pastry Squares are the perfect appetizer, light lunch, or snack. They are incredibly easy to make, require minimal ingredients, and are bursting with flavor. The flaky, buttery puff pastry paired with the creamy, garlicky Boursin cheese and juicy, sweet tomatoes is a match made in culinary heaven. This recipe is easily customizable; feel free to add your favorite herbs, spices, or other toppings. Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love These Puff Pastry Squares

* **Easy to make:** This recipe is foolproof and requires only a few simple steps.
* **Minimal ingredients:** You likely already have most of the ingredients in your pantry and refrigerator.
* **Bursting with flavor:** The combination of Boursin cheese and fresh tomatoes is incredibly delicious.
* **Versatile:** These squares can be served as an appetizer, light lunch, or snack.
* **Impressive presentation:** They look beautiful and are perfect for entertaining.
* **Customizable:** Easily adaptable to your tastes and preferences.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

* **Puff Pastry:** 1 sheet (approximately 14 ounces) of store-bought puff pastry, thawed according to package directions.
* **Boursin Cheese:** 5.2 ounce container of Boursin Garlic & Fine Herbs cheese (or your favorite flavor).
* **Tomatoes:** 1 pint of cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes, halved or quartered depending on size.
* **Egg:** 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash).
* **Fresh Basil:** A few fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish, optional).
* **Olive Oil:** 1 tablespoon, extra virgin.
* **Salt and Pepper:** To taste.
* **Balsamic Glaze:** For drizzling (optional).

## Equipment

* **Baking Sheet:** A large baking sheet.
* **Parchment Paper:** To line the baking sheet.
* **Knife or Pizza Cutter:** For cutting the puff pastry.
* **Mixing Bowl:** For tossing tomatoes with olive oil and seasonings.
* **Pastry Brush:** For applying the egg wash.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create delicious Boursin & Tomato Puff Pastry Squares:

**Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry**

* Thaw the puff pastry sheet according to the package directions. This usually takes about 30-40 minutes at room temperature. Make sure it’s pliable but still cold.
* Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

**Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Mixture**

* In a medium mixing bowl, combine the halved or quartered cherry tomatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently to coat the tomatoes evenly.

**Step 3: Assemble the Puff Pastry Squares**

* Lightly flour a clean work surface. Gently unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet onto the floured surface.
* Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the puff pastry sheet into 9 equal squares. You can adjust the size of the squares depending on your preference.
* Transfer the puff pastry squares to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly apart.

**Step 4: Add the Boursin and Tomatoes**

* Evenly spread a generous amount of Boursin cheese onto each puff pastry square, leaving a small border around the edges.
* Arrange the seasoned tomato mixture on top of the Boursin cheese, distributing the tomatoes evenly across each square. Gently press the tomatoes into the cheese.

**Step 5: Egg Wash and Bake**

* In a small bowl, whisk together the egg to create an egg wash.
* Using a pastry brush, lightly brush the edges of the puff pastry squares with the egg wash. This will help them turn golden brown and crispy during baking.
* Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and puffed up, and the tomatoes are tender.

**Step 6: Garnish and Serve**

* Once baked, remove the puff pastry squares from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet for a few minutes.
* Garnish with fresh chopped basil, if desired.
* Drizzle with balsamic glaze for an extra touch of sweetness and flavor (optional).
* Serve warm and enjoy!

## Tips for Perfect Puff Pastry Squares

* **Keep the puff pastry cold:** Cold puff pastry is essential for achieving a flaky, layered texture. If the pastry becomes too warm, it will be difficult to work with and may not rise properly.
* **Don’t overfill the squares:** Overfilling the puff pastry squares can cause them to become soggy and prevent them from baking evenly. Be sure to leave a small border around the edges.
* **Use good quality ingredients:** The quality of your ingredients will directly impact the flavor of the final product. Use fresh, ripe tomatoes and high-quality Boursin cheese for the best results.
* **Monitor the baking time:** Baking times may vary depending on your oven. Keep a close eye on the puff pastry squares while they are baking and adjust the baking time as needed.
* **Let them cool slightly before serving:** Allowing the puff pastry squares to cool slightly before serving will prevent the Boursin cheese from melting too much and making them messy to eat.

## Variations and Substitutions

* **Cheese:** If you don’t have Boursin cheese, you can substitute it with cream cheese, goat cheese, or ricotta cheese. Season with garlic, herbs, and spices to mimic the flavor of Boursin.
* **Tomatoes:** Feel free to use different types of tomatoes, such as Roma tomatoes, heirloom tomatoes, or sun-dried tomatoes. If using sun-dried tomatoes, be sure to rehydrate them in warm water before adding them to the puff pastry squares.
* **Herbs:** Experiment with different herbs, such as oregano, thyme, rosemary, or parsley. Add the herbs to the tomato mixture or sprinkle them on top of the puff pastry squares before baking.
* **Spices:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or sprinkle with garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor.
* **Vegetables:** Add other vegetables, such as sliced onions, bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Sauté the vegetables before adding them to the puff pastry squares.
* **Meat:** Add cooked bacon, prosciutto, or sausage for a heartier appetizer.
* **Pesto:** Spread a thin layer of pesto on top of the puff pastry squares before adding the Boursin cheese and tomatoes.
* **Vegan:** To make this recipe vegan, use vegan puff pastry, vegan Boursin cheese (or a similar plant-based cream cheese), and omit the egg wash. Brush the edges of the puff pastry with olive oil or plant-based milk instead.

## Serving Suggestions

These Boursin & Tomato Puff Pastry Squares are delicious served on their own as an appetizer or snack. They also pair well with:

* **Salads:** Serve them alongside a fresh green salad or a Caprese salad.
* **Soups:** Enjoy them with a bowl of tomato soup or vegetable soup.
* **Brunch:** Add them to your brunch spread along with other savory and sweet treats.
* **Wine:** Pair them with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

## Make-Ahead Instructions

You can prepare the tomato mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Assemble the puff pastry squares just before baking for the best results. You can also bake the puff pastry squares ahead of time and reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving. However, they are best served fresh.

## Storage Instructions

Store leftover Boursin & Tomato Puff Pastry Squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

## Recipe Card

**Puff Pastry Squares with Boursin and Tomatoes**

**Yields:** 9 squares
**Prep Time:** 15 minutes
**Cook Time:** 15-20 minutes

**Ingredients:**

* 1 sheet (approximately 14 ounces) of store-bought puff pastry, thawed
* 5.2 ounce container of Boursin Garlic & Fine Herbs cheese
* 1 pint of cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes, halved or quartered
* 1 large egg, beaten
* Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
* 1 tablespoon olive oil, extra virgin
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Balsamic glaze (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, toss tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Unfold puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut into 9 equal squares.
4. Transfer squares to the baking sheet.
5. Spread Boursin cheese evenly on each square, leaving a small border.
6. Arrange tomato mixture on top of the cheese.
7. Brush edges of puff pastry with egg wash.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed up.
9. Garnish with fresh basil and drizzle with balsamic glaze, if desired.
10. Serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious and easy Puff Pastry Squares with Boursin and Tomatoes! This recipe is a surefire way to impress your family and friends with minimal effort. The combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a batch of these delightful treats. Happy baking!

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

*Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*

* Calories: Approximately 250-300 per square
* Fat: 15-20g
* Saturated Fat: 8-12g
* Cholesterol: 50-70mg
* Sodium: 200-300mg
* Carbohydrates: 20-25g
* Fiber: 1-2g
* Sugar: 5-8g
* Protein: 5-7g

Enjoy these delectable Puff Pastry Squares with Boursin and Tomatoes in moderation as part of a balanced diet!