These Ham, Cheese, and Pea Puff Pastry Squares are a savory delight that combines crispy, flaky pastry with a creamy, cheesy filling. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a light meal, these easy-to-make puff pastry squares are filled with cooked ham, cheddar cheese, and mushy peas for a comforting, flavor-packed bite. Using store-bought puff pastry keeps the prep simple, while baking or air frying gives you the perfect crispy exterior. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a quick family-friendly recipe, these squares are sure to be a hit!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Pastry Squares:

• 1 pack of ready-made puff pastry (about 500g)
• 200g cooked ham, cubed
• 150g cheddar cheese, grated
• 1 can of mushy peas (or 200g mushy peas)
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Shaping and Baking:

• Pastry cut into 4 1/2 by 4-inch squares
• Preheat oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or 400°F
• Air fryer temperature: 170°C (340°F) for 20-25 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

1. Thaw the Puff Pastry:
   If using frozen puff pastry, let it thaw according to package instructions until it’s soft enough to work with but still cold.
2. Prepare the Ham and Cheese Filling:
   In a mixing bowl, combine the cubed ham, grated cheddar cheese, and mushy peas. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste, stirring until well mixed.

2. Assemble the Pastry Squares:

1. Cut the Pastry:
   Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut it into squares approximately 4 1/2 by 4 inches in size.
2. Add the Filling:
   Place a spoonful of the ham, cheese, and pea mixture in the center of each square, being careful not to overfill to ensure easy sealing.
3. Seal the Pastry Squares:
   Fold each pastry square over the filling to form a triangle or leave it as a square and pinch the edges together. Press the edges with a fork to seal, creating a decorative edge.
4. Apply Egg Wash:
   Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush it over the tops of the pastry squares to give them a golden finish when baked.

3. Bake or Air Fry:

• For Oven Baking:
  Place the pastry squares on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (180°C fan) or 400°F for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and puffed up.
• For Air Frying:
  Place the pastry squares in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t overlap. Set the air fryer to 170°C (340°F) and cook for 20-25 minutes, checking halfway through to prevent over-browning.

4. Serve:

1. Cool Slightly:
   Let the pastry squares cool slightly before serving to allow the filling to set.
2. Enjoy:
   Serve warm or at room temperature. These pastries pair well with a side of fresh salad, a bowl of soup, or a dipping sauce like marinara or honey mustard.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per pastry square):

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 1g

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! Try Swiss, Gruyère, or even mozzarella for a slightly different flavor profile.

Q2: Can I substitute the mushy peas?
If mushy peas aren’t available, you can use lightly mashed green peas for a similar texture and taste.

Q3: How can I make this vegetarian?
Simply omit the ham or replace it with sautéed mushrooms or chopped bell peppers.

Tips for Making the Best Ham, Cheese, and Pea Puff Pastry Squares

1. Keep the Pastry Cold:
   Cold puff pastry bakes up crispier and flakier. Avoid letting it sit at room temperature for too long before baking.
2. Don’t Overfill the Pastries:
   Overfilling can cause the pastry to burst open during baking. Use just enough filling to avoid spillage.
3. Use an Egg Wash:
   Brushing the tops with egg wash gives the pastry a beautiful golden color and glossy finish.
4. Experiment with Seasonings:
   Try adding a pinch of garlic powder, paprika, or Italian herbs to the filling for extra flavor.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration:
  Store leftover pastry squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.
• Freezing:
  These pastries freeze well. Place uncooked pastry squares on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Conclusion

Ham, Cheese, and Pea Puff Pastry Squares are the perfect blend of flaky pastry and flavorful filling. They’re versatile, easy to make, and adaptable to various fillings, making them an ideal choice for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a quick snack, an appetizer for a gathering, or a savory treat for yourself, these puff pastry squares are sure to impress. With a crispy crust and a creamy, cheesy filling, these pastries are bound to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Enjoy them warm and watch as they disappear in no time!