Versatile Puff Pastry

What’s the next best thing to a personal chef over the holidays? A package of puff pastry. This flaky crispy dough makes appetizers (Parmesan Paprika Twists, anyone?), entrees (Roasted Chicken Pot Pie) and desserts (Honey-Spice Walnut Tart) a snap. More than 50 recipes for these and more can be found in the new book Puff, by Martha Holmberg (Chronicle, 2008). Roll it, fill it, top it, or layer it, and voilá, let the holidays begin. You’ll find puff pastry in the freezer section of the supermarket.

Ham, Gruyere and Dijon Palmiers

There’s no eating just one of these savory puff pastry snacks. They make great New Year’s Eve cocktail party nibbles.

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Quick Chocolate-Raspberry Napoleons

Luscious chocolate cream filling and berries between delicate pastry wafers.

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Arugula, Feta and Cilantro Triangles

Spicy arugula adds a little punch to these spanakopita-style appetizers.

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