Description
These Festive Crescent Rolls with Pesto are a delightful appetizer perfect for any gathering. Flaky crescent dough is spread with savory pesto, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, and baked to a golden brown. A touch of red pepper flakes adds an optional spicy kick, while fresh basil leaves provide a bright, aromatic garnish. Quick to prepare and irresistibly tasty, these rolls make an excellent starter or side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough and Filling
- 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough (or your favorite brand)
- 1/4 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional Toppings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for brushing)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Unroll and Separate Dough: Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into 8 triangles. Arrange these triangles on the baking sheet without overlapping.
- Spread Pesto: Spread about 1 teaspoon of pesto sauce on each triangle, leaving a small border around the edges for easy rolling.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle approximately 1 tablespoon of shredded mozzarella on top of the pesto on each triangle, followed by a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
- Add Heat (Optional): If you prefer some spice, sprinkle a small pinch of red pepper flakes over the cheese layers.
- Roll the Dough: Starting from the wide end of each triangle, carefully roll the dough tightly toward the pointed end, forming the classic crescent shape.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the rolled crescent rolls evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush with Olive Oil: Brush the tops of each roll lightly with olive oil to encourage a golden, crispy crust during baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until rolls are golden brown and cheeses are melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, and serve warm as an appetizer or side dish.
Notes
- Store-bought pesto works well, but homemade pesto will elevate the flavor.
- You can substitute mozzarella with other melting cheeses like provolone or fontina.
- Brush with egg wash instead of olive oil for a shinier finish if preferred.
- Serve immediately for best texture; leftovers can be reheated briefly before serving.
- For a milder version, omit the red pepper flakes.
