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1
Ignore the package directions about how long it will take the frzn puff pastry to thaw.
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2
It will take at least 45 min at room temperature.
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3
Heat the oven to 400 degrees.
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4
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
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5
Meanwhile, cut 3-inch tips from each stalk of asparagus (reserve the rest of the stalk for soup).
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6
Add in the tips to the boiling water and cook just till they turn bright green, about 1 to 2 min.
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7
Drain the tips, then plunge them into ice water to stop the cooking process.
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8
Drain again, then dry thoroughly on paper towels.
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9
Set aside.
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10
The asparagus tips can be steamed the day before and then refrigerated.
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11
Roll the pastry into a 12- by 4-inch rectangle.
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12
From the 4-inch side, carefully cut the pastry into 4 (1-inch) strips.
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13
Spread each strip with 1/4 of the cheese, then sprinkle with salt and pepper.
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14
Cut each strip into 6 equal pcs measuring 2 inches.
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15
You should have 24 equal-sized rectangles.
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16
Wrap each asparagus tip in one of the rectangles, using a little water to help seal the ends.
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17
Place them sealed-side down on a baking sheet.
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18
(The puffs can then be assembled the morning of the party and kept chilled.
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19
Remove from the refrigerator about 30 min before baking.)
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20
Bake till puffed and golden brown, about 15 min.
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21
Serve immediately.
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22
This recipe yields 24 puffs.
