Puff Pastry Pinwheels

These puff pastry pinwheels are easy to make, and as long as you begin with a sheet of puff pastry, they can be assembled with almost any cooked ingredients you have on hand. Ham and cheese are a winning combination and crisp bacon provides texture and crunch. Chopped sundried tomatoes and fresh herbs add color and piquant flavor.

Serve puff pastry pinwheels as an appetizer, snack, or part of a brunch or lunch. For a vegetarian option, substitute sliced grilled eggplant and roasted peppers for the meats. With so many options, you’ll always be ready to make puff pastry pinwheels on short notice.

1. If necessary, roll out the sheet of pastry so it is of a uniform thickness. Brush with a thin, even, layer of mustard. Add thin even layers of cheese, bacon, and ham. Sprinkle with sundried tomatoes, parsley, and bacon.

2. Roll the pastry up tightly and refrigerate until throughly chilled and firm, at least 30 minutes. (Don’t neglect this step or the roll cannot be cut properly.)

3. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Cut the roll into very thin slices, about 1 cm (1/3 inch) thick. Arrange on a baking sheet about 5 cm (2 inches) apart. Bake until puffed and golden brown, about 20 minutes. Serve the pinwheels warm or cold.