Rustici Leccesi

Leccese rustici are a tasty appetizer typical of Salento cuisine. They are characterized by a crispy puff pastry and a flavorful filling of béchamel, tomato, and mozzarella. Here is the recipe to prepare them:

Ingredients

• Puff pastry: 2 rolls
• Béchamel: 250 ml
• Mozzarella: 150 g, cut into cubes
• Cherry tomatoes: 10, cut in half
• Grated Parmesan: 50 g
• Eggs: 1 (to brush the puff pastry)
• Salt and pepper: to taste.

Preparation

1. Béchamel preparation: Start by preparing the béchamel following your favorite recipe or heating the ready-made one. Season with a bit of salt and pepper.

2. Filling: In a bowl, gently mix the béchamel with the mozzarella cubes, the halved cherry tomatoes, and the Parmesan. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if necessary.

3. Forming the rustici: Roll out a sheet of puff pastry and, using a glass or a cookie cutter, cut out circles. In the center of each puff pastry circle, place a spoonful of filling.

4. Assembly: Cover the filling with another puff pastry circle and seal the edges well by pressing with your fingers or the tines of a fork to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.

5. Baking: Arrange the rustici on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Beat the egg and gently brush the surface of the rustici. Bake in a preheated oven at 200 °C for about 20 minutes or until golden brown.

6. Serving: Let cool slightly before serving.

Fun Facts

Leccese rustici are a much-loved dish in Salento and can be easily found in pastry shops and bars, often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer. The contrast between the crispy shell and the stringy center makes them irresistible with every bite!

For a version even closer to the original, some recipes suggest adding a bit of tomato passata or concentrate to the filling to enrich the flavor.