Walnut Wands

DESCRIPTION

With hints of crunchy walnuts, Parmesan and olives, these wands taste magical and are sure to be enjoyed by sorcerers and humans alike.  Toasted walnuts add crunch to these golden puff-pastry wands. A perfect addition to a cheese tray or makes a satisfying snack.

Total Time
42 Mins
Serves
18
Meal
Snack
Course
Appetizers Side

Total Time

Prep Time
20 Mins
Cook Time
22 Mins
Total Time
42 Mins

Nutrition

Calories
138 cal
Total Fat
6 g
Polyunsaturated Fat
2 g
Cholesterol
2 mg
Sodium
244 mg
Carbohydrates
10 g
Dietary Fiber
1 g
Protein
3 g

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup California walnuts, toasted
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/3 cup dried figs, finely diced (about 4)
  • 6 kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
  • 2 teaspoons capers
  • 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt and pepper
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 10 x 10-inch sheet of puff pastry, thawed

Preparation

Toasting Walnuts:

  1. In large, dry skillet over medium-high heat, toast walnuts, stirring occasionally, until lightly brown, about 1 to 2 minutes.
  2. Preheat oven to 375°F.

Walnut Mixture:

  1. In a food processor, combine walnuts, Parmesan, figs, olives, capers, vinegar, thyme, salt and pepper, water and blend to a paste. Set aside.
  2. With a sharp knife, cut sheet of puff pastry into 4 equal squares. Spread walnut mixture evenly among 3 of the squares, then stack, placing the clean pastry square on top.

To Assemble Wands:

  1. Cut two 1/4-inch thin strips from the pastry stack.
  2. Take one strip and twist into a spiral towards the right. Repeat with second strip.
  3. Lay both twisted strips side-by-side and pinch one end together. Take the right twisted strip and cross over the left one. Keep crossing the two twisted strips until completely spiraled together. Pinch the ends together to form a tip.
  4. Repeat steps 1 to 3 until pastry is finished.
  5. Lay wands on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool and serve.

Tip:

The unbaked wands/pastry can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The baked wands will keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Refresh in a 375°F oven for 5 minutes before serving, if desired.