Herbed Goat Cheese Straws

Instructions

1. Prepare the herb mixture
   In a medium bowl, combine the goat cheese, chopped chives, thyme, rosemary, black pepper, salt, and lemon zest. Mix thoroughly until all herbs are evenly distributed throughout the cheese.
2. Roll out the pastry
   On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet into a rectangle approximately 30cm x 25cm (12" x 10"). If the pastry is already rolled to this size, simply unfold it onto the floured surface.
3. Apply the cheese mixture
   Spread the herbed goat cheese mixture evenly over half of the pastry sheet, leaving a 1cm border around the edges. Fold the uncovered half of the pastry over the cheese-covered half and gently press down to seal.
4. Cut and twist
   Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the pastry into strips about 1.5cm (1/2 inch) wide. Twist each strip several times by holding both ends and rotating in opposite directions. Place the twisted strips on baking sheets lined with parchment paper, about 2.5cm apart.
5. Chill and preheat
   Place the baking sheets with the twisted pastry in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to chill. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
6. Apply egg wash
   Remove the chilled pastry twists from the refrigerator. Brush each twist lightly with the beaten egg to give them a golden finish when baked.
7. Bake to perfection
   Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the straws are puffed and golden brown. Rotate the baking sheets halfway through cooking time to ensure even browning.
8. Cool and serve
   Allow the cheese straws to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve at room temperature as an appetizer or alongside soups and salads.