Asparagus rolls with kataifi pastry and feta are a refined and original appetizer that combines the crunchiness of kataifi pastry with the delicacy of asparagus and the bold taste of feta. They are, in fact, asparagus wrapped in kataifi pastry, a Middle Eastern preparation made from flour and water resembling spaghetti or angel hair pasta. It is used in many recipes, such as sweet or savory baskets, fried shrimp, or in the preparation of the famous Dubai chocolate. In this recipe, it becomes the crunchy shell for asparagus with feta and is quickly cooked in an air fryer. Only 3 ingredients are needed to make this delicious appetizer, topped with honey which, with its sweetness, creates a perfect contrast with the saltiness of the feta.
The preparation is very simple: we blanch the asparagus, and once cooled, we wrap them in kataifi pastry with feta. 8 minutes at 320°F in the air fryer and they are ready.
Ideal for impressing guests with a scenic but very easy-to-make proposal, these rolls are prepared in a few steps and quickly cooked in the air fryer. The final touch of honey makes them even more irresistible, perfectly balancing the flavors. Perfect for a brunch, a buffet, or a spring dinner, they can be served either hot or at room temperature. Try them!
Also discover:
- Difficulty: Very Easy
- Cost: Very Economical
- Preparation time: 10 Minutes
- Portions: 8 Pieces
- Cooking methods: Air Frying, Boiling
- Cuisine: Creative
- Seasonality: Spring
Ingredients to Prepare Asparagus Rolls with Kataifi Pastry and Feta
- 8 asparagus
- 3.5 oz kataifi pastry
- 1.75 oz feta
- extra virgin olive oil
- chestnut honey
Tools to Prepare Asparagus Rolls with Kataifi Pastry and Feta
- Pot
- Bowl
- Paper Towels
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
- Air Fryer
How to Prepare Asparagus Rolls with Kataifi Pastry and Feta
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and blanch the asparagus for 5-10 minutes, until they are tender but not mushy.
Drain them and immediately transfer to a bowl with ice water to stop the cooking and maintain the bright color.
Pat them dry with paper towels.
On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spread out a strip of kataifi pastry.
Crumble a bit of feta on top, then place an asparagus and wrap it in the kataifi pastry to form a roll.
Repeat the process with all the asparagus.
Brush or spray with a little extra virgin olive oil.
Cook in the air fryer at 320°F for about 8 minutes or until the rolls are nicely golden and crunchy (times may vary slightly based on the air fryer model).
Serve immediately with a drizzle of honey.
Storage
The rolls are best freshly made, but you can store them in the fridge for 1 day in an airtight container. Reheat them in the air fryer or oven to restore crispiness.
Variations
With different cheeses: replace feta with goat cheese, salted ricotta, or a mix of spreadable cheeses.
With bacon or speck: wrap the asparagus first with a slice of speck and then with kataifi.
Vegetarian version with nuts: add pistachio granules or chopped walnuts to the feta.
Useful Tips
Choose medium-sized asparagus for even cooking.
Kataifi pastry is easier to work with at room temperature: unroll it gently.
Don’t overdo the feta: just a little is enough to prevent it from oozing out during cooking.
If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake them in a fan oven at 356°F for 12-15 minutes.
FAQ (Questions and Answers)
Can I use phyllo dough instead of kataifi?
Yes, cut it into thin strips and you’ll get a similar effect, although less fluffy. Otherwise, you can cut rectangles, brush them with oil or butter, and wrap them around the asparagus.
Where can I buy kataifi pastry?
It’s available at ethnic food stores, better-stocked supermarkets in the refrigerated section, or online.
Is honey necessary?
No, but it is recommended: it enhances the contrast between the saltiness of the feta and the sweetness of the honey.
Can they be prepared in advance?
You can prepare them a few hours in advance and store them raw in the fridge. Cook them just before serving.
