Summer Savory Hand Pies

Open up the packages of puff pastry, lay a lightly moistened towel over them so that they don’t dry out, and allow them to thaw while you prepare the filling; about 30 minutes.Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 400ºF and place a silicone baking mat or piece of parchment paper on top of a baking sheet.In a large bowl, toss together the sliced shallots, peaches, tomatoes, corn, pine nuts (if using) and cornstarch, being gentle so as not to mash the fruits. Once everything is evenly coated with starch, drizzle in the balsamic vinegar and olive oil, followed by all the fresh herbs and seasonings. Stir well to distribute the latest additions evenly, taste for salt and mix in more if necessary. Finally, stir in the vegan cheese.Once the pastry has thawed, work with one sheet at a time on a lightly floured surface and roll it out to 1/8-inch thickness.

Cut the rectangle into 9 equal squares and transfer them to your prepared baking sheet, spacing them out evenly with at least 1/2-inch of breathing room in between the pieces.

Roll out the second sheet of pastry in the same way and once again, cut it into 9 squares.Spoon 1/4 to 1/3 cup of the filling into the center of each pastry square resting on the baking sheet, mounding it up slightly towards the middle. Run a lightly moistened finger all the way around the perimeter of the pastry; this is the “glue” that will seal the top and bottom together.Take a second square of pastry, stretching it slightly if necessary to cover the filling, and firmly press down around the edges. Use a fork to crimp all the way around, and trim the excess if desired. Use a very sharp knife to cut two or three vents in the top of each hand pie. Repeat with all the remaining squares until each pie has a secure top and bottom crust.

Bake for 14 to 18 minutes, until puffed and golden brown all over.

Let cool on the baking sheet for at least 10 minutes before digging in.