Appetizer > Savory Appetizers > Tuna Appetizers

Tuna and Cheese Pastelito Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cans (7 ounces each) tuna, drained
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed

Special Equipment Needed:
- Baking sheet
- Rolling pin
- Pastry brush

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, cheese, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. On a lightly floured surface, roll out each sheet of puff pastry to about 1/4-inch thick.
4. Cut each sheet into 4 equal squares.
5. Place a heaping tablespoon of the tuna mixture in the center of each square.
6. Fold the corners of the pastry up and over the filling, pressing to seal.
7. Place the pastelitos on a baking sheet.
8. Brush with egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon of water).
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Time:
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Temperature: 375°F
Serving Size: 8 pastelitos

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 200
Fat: 13g
Carbohydrates: 11g
Protein: 10g

Substitutions for Ingredients
- Tuna: canned salmon, cooked chicken, or cooked shrimp
- Cheddar cheese: any type of cheese
- Olive oil: vegetable oil
- Garlic powder: fresh garlic, minced
- Onion powder: fresh onion, minced
- Dried oregano: fresh oregano, chopped

Variations:
- Add diced bell peppers, olives, or jalapenos to the filling for a spicy kick.
- Substitute the puff pastry for wonton wrappers for a crunchier texture.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to seal the pastelitos tightly so the filling doesn’t leak out during baking.
- For a crispier texture, brush the pastelitos with melted butter before baking.

Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.

Presentation Ideas:
Serve the pastelitos on a platter with a side of salsa or guacamole.

Garnishes:
Garnish with fresh parsley, diced tomatoes, or a dollop of sour cream.

Pairings:
Serve with a side of tortilla chips, a green salad, or roasted vegetables.

Suggested Side Dishes:
Rice, beans, or a side of vegetables.

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the pastelitos are not browning, increase the oven temperature to 400°F.
- If the pastelitos are too dry, add a tablespoon of water to the filling before baking.

Food Safety Advice:
Make sure to cook the pastelitos until they are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Food History:
Pastelitos are a popular snack in Latin American countries, particularly in Cuba and Puerto Rico. They are typically filled with savory ingredients such as tuna, cheese, and vegetables.

Flavor Profiles:
This dish has a savory flavor with a hint of garlic and oregano.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve as an appetizer or snack.

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Taste: Savory, Cheesy, Tangy, Fishy, Salty