Star-Shaped Pesto Dip (Printable Version)

Creamy pesto filling in a golden star shape with crispy edges, ideal for sharing at festive occasions.

# What You'll Need:

→ Pesto Dip

01 - 7 oz cream cheese, softened
02 - 3.5 oz ricotta cheese
03 - 2.8 oz basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
04 - 1 garlic clove, finely minced
05 - 0.7 oz grated Parmesan cheese
06 - 1 tablespoon lemon juice
07 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

→ Star Shape & Cracker Edges

08 - 1 sheet puff pastry (approx. 8.8 oz), thawed
09 - 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
10 - 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
11 - Extra Parmesan cheese, for sprinkling

# How To Make It:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - On a lightly floured surface, roll puff pastry to approximately 1/8 inch thickness. Using a star-shaped cookie cutter about 8 inches across, cut out a star shape and place on prepared baking sheet.
03 - Cut remaining pastry into 0.6-inch wide strips and arrange around star edges to form a raised border. Press gently to seal.
04 - Brush pastry edges with beaten egg. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and additional Parmesan if desired.
05 - Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until golden brown and crisp. Cool completely on a wire rack.
06 - Combine cream cheese, ricotta, basil pesto, minced garlic, Parmesan, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix thoroughly until smooth and creamy.
07 - Transfer cooled pastry star to serving platter. Spoon pesto mixture into the center and spread evenly within the pastry border. Serve immediately with crispy edges for dipping.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Easy to prepare with simple ingredients
  • Perfect for festive gatherings and parties
02 -
  • Use gluten-free puff pastry for a gluten-free option
  • Pairs well with crisp white wines such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc
03 -
  • Add sun-dried tomatoes or chopped olives to the dip for extra flavor
  • Be gentle when arranging pastry strips to keep the star shape intact
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