To make your holiday party even more spectacular, you need the perfect wine. Here is, the Million Dollar Chef, Walter Martino's Top 20 Holiday appetizers, and guide to holiday wine pairings.
'Tis the Season for… Bacon Pastry Twists
Puff pastries are a total secret weapon, and it is the star of one of the most classic hors d'oeuvres out there, everything from appetizers to tarts, both savory and sweet. Pre-made puff pastry is probably the ultimate holiday entertaining hack. The Bacon Pastry Twists pairs perfectly with a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon, and the type of appetizer that people stop talking to eat and toast to this holiday season.
PAIRING: 2013 "Impact" Cabernet Sauvignon
3 sheets puff pastry
1 cup Parmesan cheese
30 bacon strips
1 egg, lightly whisked
3 Tbsp. sesame seed
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup cream cheese
1 Tbsp. freshly parsley
1 Tbsp. chili flakes
STEP 1
Preheat the oven to 380 degrees Fahrenheit. Line 3 large baking trays with non-stick baking parchment. Unroll the pastry sheets with the wide end facing you. Arrange the bacon on top of the Parmesan, so it's almost touching, but not overlapping. Slice the pastry into strips, in between each bacon strip.
STEP 2
Twist each of the pastry strips so you get an even twist.
STEP 3
Place the twists on the two baking trays (not too close, as they will expand in the oven). Brush pastry you with the whisked egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Place in the oven for 25 minutes, until golden brown.
The center of this wine is Cabernet Sauvignon, sourced from Mount Veeder, Coombsville and Yountville vineyards, and shows Cab's brambly black fruit, red currant, and minerality, tempered with rich Spring Mountain District syrah's plum and spice, with nuance from Yountville Merlot's and Franc's soft texture.
Let's get cooking. For now, I'd love to know —tag @ChefWMartino on social and use the hashtag #AllThingsWine so I can cheer you on and share your dishes.
