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Fantasia di rustici

17/11/2023

The term “Fantasia di rustici” can encompass various types of savory snacks, generally small pastries or savory pies suitable for an aperitif or a buffet. I can suggest a recipe for assorted rustic bites which includes several small delights to be enjoyed in variety. Ready? Here is a selection of classic rustic treats.

Ingredients

For the Shortcrust Pastry:

  • 250 g of flour
  • 125 g of cold butter, cubed
  • 1 egg
  • A pinch of salt
  • Cold water as needed

For the Puff Pastry (can be bought ready-made):

  • 250 g of flour
  • 200 g of butter
  • A pinch of salt
  • Cold water as needed

For the filling of the various rustic bites:

  • 200 g of mozzarella
  • 100 g of cooked ham
  • 50 g of salami
  • 50 g of cream cheese (such as Philadelphia)
  • 1 small zucchini
  • 1 egg for brushing

Preparation

For the Shortcrust Pastry:

  1. Mix the flour and butter in a bowl, working quickly with your fingertips until you get a sandy mixture.
  2. Add the egg and salt, then combine by adding just enough cold water to form a compact ball of dough.
  3. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

For the Puff Pastry (if homemade):

  1. On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a rectangle and distribute 2/3 of the softened butter over the top.
  2. Fold it into three parts, then turn it and roll it back out into a rectangle. Repeat this operation 4 times, taking care to let the dough rest in the fridge between folds.

To assemble the rustic bites:

  1. Preheat the oven to 180 °C.
  2. Roll out the shortcrust and puff pastry and cut them into desired shapes (e.g., circles, squares, triangles).
  3. Stuff with mozzarella and ham, salami, or with a mixture of cream cheese and diced zucchini (previously sautéed in a pan and cooled).
  4. Place the fillings on the disks or squares of pastry and then fold to form rustic bites like little bundles, half moons, etc.
  5. Brush the surface of the rustic bites with beaten egg for a nice golden color.
  6. Bake the rustic bites for about 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.

Serve them hot or at room temperature.

Curiosity

Shortcrust pastry is very versatile and is used for different preparations, both sweet and savory, in Italy. Its crumbly texture makes it ideal for tartlets and quiches. The imagination for rustic bites is only limited by creativity - you can vary the fillings to taste, for example by adding grilled vegetables, pesto, or other types of cured meats and cheeses.