Asparagus and puff pastry cigars

A quick and easy veggie nibble for summer parties. Serve with glasses of fizz and elderflower cordial.

Ingredients

• 150g/5oz ready-made puff pastry
• flour, for dusting
• 25g/1oz cream cheese
• 10 asparagus spears
• 1 free-range egg, beaten
• 2 tbsp freshly grated parmesan

Preparation method

1. Preheat the oven to 200C/400F/Gas 6.
2. Roll the puff pastry out on a floured surface into an 15cmx25cm/6inx10in rectangle and spread all over with the cream cheese.
3. Using a sharp knife, cut the pastry into 10 long, thin strips.
4. Wrap one pastry strip in a spiral around each asparagus spear and place onto a baking tray. Lightly brush each with beaten egg then scatter over the parmesan.
5. Bake the cigars in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry has risen and is golden-brown.