Classic puff pastries with broad beans, bacon, and pecorino

/5

PRESENTATION

So here's the deal, Sfoglie classiche con fave, pancetta e pecorino is this awesome classic from Lazio. You know, when you want to spice up those traditional flavors a bit. These puff pastry appetizers—really good stuff—are perfect for gatherings. They offer a crispy, flaky bite bursting with fava beans, pancetta, and pecorino cheese. Really, it’s a great combo. Imagine biting into the golden pastry, getting that savory punch from the pancetta, and the creamy cheese. So, so good.

This is a favorite in Rome, pretty much all over Lazio, especially in spring when fava beans are everywhere. Turning them into Italian finger food for an aperitivo? Super fun. Seriously, it's a neat way to serve up those old-school flavors with a fresh twist. Perfect for sharing at any gathering. And listen, when you set out a plate of these tender, golden bites, it’s about more than just the food. It's the whole vibe.

You'll see them disappear—no question—thanks to the balance of salty, slightly tangy pancetta, and those sweet beans. The crunch of the pastry? Pretty unique. And the pecorino cheese topping? Gives it that sharp, punchy flavor that screams traditional Italian recipe. Pair them with prosecco or chilled white wine. For real, the flavors just shine.

These savory pastries make you want to linger—enjoying each bite and, honestly, the company too. If you're after something simple yet special, these puff pastry appetizers hit the spot. They give you classic tastes with a modern twist, ideal for sharing with friends. This is springtime in Italy, waiting to be savored at your next snack break or party. Perfect, really, for any group that loves good food and a chill, friendly vibe. So grab a glass, share some laughs, and let these bites take you to a beautiful Italian spring evening—filled with joy, great flavors, and good company. Honestly, you can't go wrong.

INGREDIENTS
Ingredients for 12 pastries
Crispy baked puff pastry 12
Fava beans 3.5 oz (100 g)
Pancetta 3.5 oz (100 g)
Pecorino cheese 1.8 oz (50 g) - shavings
Extra virgin olive oil to taste
Fine salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Preparation

How to prepare Classic puff pastries with broad beans, bacon, and pecorino

To prepare the classic pastries with broad beans, bacon, and pecorino, start by shelling the fresh broad beans 1, then remove the skin that covers them by gently pressing with your fingers 2, collect them in a small bowl and season with oil 3, salt, and pepper to taste. As an alternative to fresh broad beans, you can use dried ones, soaking them for at least 12 hours and boiling them for a couple of hours or until they are cooked and softened.

Then cut the guanciale or sweet bacon into thin strips 4; heat a non-stick pan with a drizzle of oil, then add the bacon strips 5. Sauté over high heat for a few minutes. Meanwhile, shave the pecorino into flakes using a grater 6 or a small knife.

When the bacon is well browned, turn off the heat and assemble your pastries: place a teaspoon of broad beans 7, add one or two strips of bacon using kitchen tongs 8, and then some pecorino flakes. Serve your classic pastries with broad beans, bacon, and pecorino 9!

Storage

You can store the classic pastries with broad beans, bacon, and pecorino in the refrigerator for 1-2 days.
Freezing is not recommended.

Tip

To add color to the classic pastries with broad beans, bacon, and pecorino, you can also add cherry tomatoes.

For the translation of some texts, artificial intelligence tools may have been used.