Brie and Bacon in Pastry

Both the height of elegance and simplicity, this rich and savory appetizer is perfect for a small crowd. Serve fresh grapes alongside.

Recipe Ingredients:

4 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
1 sheet frozen puff pastry
1 (16-ounce) wheel Brie
1/4 cup sliced, toasted almonds
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 large egg beaten with 1 teaspoon water

Cooking Directions:

1. Thaw pastry 20 minutes; roll sheet out on a lightly floured surface to a 15-inch circle.
2. Heat oven to 400°F (205°C).
3. Slice Brie in half horizontally and layer with bacon, almonds and parsley in center of pastry.
4. Brush pastry edges with egg wash, pull up sides to enclose.
5. Place seam side down on ungreased baking sheet. If desired, decorate top with pastry scraps. Brush with egg wash.
6. Bake for 20 minutes. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.

Makes 12 servings.

Nutritional Information Per Serving (1/12 of recipe): Calories 270 calories Protein 11 grams Fat 21 grams Sodium 340 milligrams Cholesterol 60 milligrams

Recipe and photograph provided courtesy of Pork, Be Inspired®.