These Anti-Inflammatory Blue Cheese, Walnut & Thyme Twirls are flaky, savory, and packed with bold flavor. Creamy blue cheese pairs beautifully with crunchy walnuts and fragrant thyme, all wrapped in golden puff pastry. Designed with anti-inflammatory ingredients, this appetizer is perfect for gatherings, tea time, or a light snack that feels indulgent but still mindful.
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4 | Makes 8 Twirls)
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1 sheet whole-grain or regular puff pastry (thawed)
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½ cup blue cheese (crumbled)
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¼ cup walnuts (finely chopped)
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1½ tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried)
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1 tsp extra virgin olive oil
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¼ tsp turmeric powder
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Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
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1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
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Optional: pinch of garlic powder or chili flakes
👩🍳 Instructions
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Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
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Lightly flour your surface and roll out puff pastry into a rectangle.
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Brush lightly with olive oil.
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Evenly sprinkle blue cheese, walnuts, thyme, turmeric, and black pepper over the pastry.
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Gently press the filling so it sticks.
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Cut the pastry into 8 equal strips.
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Twist each strip into a spiral and place on the tray.
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Brush tops with egg wash.
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Bake for 15–18 minutes, until golden and puffed.
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Cool slightly and serve warm.
🥗 Nutrition (Per Twirl – Approximate)
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Calories: 155 kcal
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Protein: 4 g
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Healthy Fats: 11 g
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Carbohydrates: 9 g
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Fiber: 1.5 g
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Sugar: <1 g
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Sodium: Moderate
💚 Why This Is Anti-Inflammatory
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Walnuts: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids that fight inflammation
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Olive Oil: Contains oleocanthal, a natural anti-inflammatory compound
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Thyme: High in antioxidants and antimicrobial properties
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Turmeric: Powerful inflammation-reducing spice
🧠 Pro Tips (Diet & Health Focused)
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✔ Use whole-grain puff pastry for extra fiber
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✔ Pair with a green salad or herbal tea for better digestion
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✔ For keto-lean diets, keep portions small and focus on fats
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✔ Avoid overheating blue cheese to preserve beneficial compounds
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✔ Swap blue cheese with goat cheese if sensitive to strong dairy
❓ Q & A
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Q: Are these suitable for an anti-inflammatory diet?
Absolutely, when enjoyed in moderation and made with quality ingredients.
Q: Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free puff pastry if available.
Q: What can I substitute for walnuts?
Almonds or pecans work well and still offer healthy fats.
Q: Can I make them egg-free?
Yes, brush with olive oil or almond milk instead of egg wash.
✨ Perfect for: Mediterranean-style eating, anti-inflammatory meal plans, party platters, or elegant snack boards.
