Sun-Dried Tomato Goat Cheese Empanadas
I created this appetizer because I entertain a lot and am always trying to think of things I can do ahead of time. I always need to make extra because people love them so much!
I created this appetizer because I entertain a lot and am always trying to think of things I can do ahead of time. I always need to make extra because people love them so much!
- Carbohydrate 24.9905 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 3.63980000144734 g
- Fiber 2.97899992108345 g
- Protein 2.648 g
- Saturated Fat 0.466020000199849 g
- Serving Size 1 1 -1/2 dozen. (334g)
- Sodium 26.5475000000289 mg
- Sugar 22.0115000789165 g
- Trans Fat 0.356195000039195 g
- Calories 136 calories
Step-by-step
- In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat.
- Add onion; cook and stir until softened, 4-5 minutes.
- Reduce heat to medium-low; cook, stirring occasionally, until deep golden brown, 30-40 minutes.
- Remove from heat. Let cool slightly.
- Gently stir in goat cheese and tomatoes.
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll dough to 1/4-in. thickness.
- Cut with a floured 3-in. round biscuit cutter.
- Place circles 2 in. apart on baking sheets.
- Place 1 heaping teaspoon filling on one side of each circle.
- Brush edges of pastry with water; fold circles in half.
- With a fork, press edges to seal.
- Bake until golden brown, 15-20 minutes.
My Go-To Appetizer: Sun-Dried Tomato Goat Cheese Empanadas
As a busy working mom, finding time to prepare delicious and impressive appetizers for gatherings can be a real challenge. I'm always juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and keeping the house in order. So, when it comes to entertaining, I need recipes that are both easy to make ahead of time and guaranteed to impress my guests. That's where these sun-dried tomato goat cheese empanadas come in. They're a lifesaver!
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and flexibility. I can prep the filling a day or two in advance, storing it in the refrigerator until needed. The pastry dough can also be made ahead, or you can even use store-bought for extra convenience. This allows me to focus on other aspects of hosting without sacrificing the deliciousness of the food. When the guests arrive, I simply assemble the empanadas, pop them in the oven, and within minutes, a beautiful and flavourful appetizer is ready to grace the table. Believe me, these little savory pastries disappear quickly— I always have to make more than I think I'll need!
The combination of sweet caramelized onions, tangy goat cheese, and the burst of flavour from the sun-dried tomatoes is simply irresistible. It's a sophisticated appetizer that's surprisingly easy to pull off, even on a busy weeknight. The warm, flaky pastry perfectly complements the rich filling, creating a delightful textural contrast that elevates the entire experience. The aroma alone is enough to get my guests excited for the rest of the meal, and I often hear compliments even before they've taken a bite. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that adds a touch of elegance to any gathering, large or small. From casual get-togethers with close friends to more formal events, these empanadas are a true winner.
Beyond the convenience and deliciousness, these empanadas also hold a special place in my heart because they represent my ability to balance my professional life with my passion for creating memorable experiences for my loved ones. It's a small gesture, a tasty treat, but it's a way of showing my appreciation for the people I care about most. And, that's what truly matters to me. So the next time you're searching for a stress-free appetizer that is both elegant and delicious, give these sun-dried tomato goat cheese empanadas a try. You won't regret it!
Tips and variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a little kick.
- Herbs and spices: Experiment with different herbs like fresh oregano or basil in the filling. A sprinkle of thyme or rosemary adds another layer of flavor.
- Cheese variations: Try using other cheeses such as feta or ricotta in place of goat cheese.
- Make it a meal: Serve these empanadas as part of a larger tapas-style spread with other appetizers and small plates.
- Freezing: You can freeze unbaked empanadas for later use. Simply bake from frozen, adding a few minutes to the baking time.
I hope you enjoy these empanadas as much as I do. They’re the perfect combination of deliciousness and convenience – a true win-win situation, especially for a busy woman like me!
