Tomato Puff Pastry Bites with Bacon Gremolata

Recipe Author: Gracie Schatz

These tomato puff pastry bites are perfect for starting a dinner party or enjoying as a light lunch with a salad. Topped with a bacon basil gremolata, these bites offer a wonderful blend of flavors. For an easy alternative, you can also use store-bought chimichurri or pesto. 

Ingredients:

- 1/2 cup finely chopped basil or parsley

- 1 Tbsp lemon zest

- 1 Tbsp grated raw garlic (use a microplane grater)

- 1/4 cup olive oil

- 1/2 cup finely chopped, crispy bacon

- Optional: chopped anchovy fillets and/or a couple of tablespoons of capers for extra kick

Directions:

1. Combine all ingredients and mix well.

2. Taste and adjust salt level to your liking.

Ingredients:

- 1 package store-bought puff pastry (usually comes with two sheets)

- 3 ripe tomatoes (Marsalato or Heirloom)

- 1 egg, whisked thoroughly

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. Slice each sheet of puff pastry into 9 squares.

3. Place a 1/2" thick slice of tomato on top of each piece of puff pastry.

4. Place the puff pastry squares on a baking sheet.

5. Brush any exposed edge of puff pastry with the whisked egg.

6. Top with freshly cracked pepper and a sprinkle of sea salt.

7. Bake in the center rack of the oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are deeply golden brown.

8. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before topping with the bacon gremolata.