Appetizer cake

Cheese and Vegetable Appetizer Cake: A Delicacy for Any Occasion

If you're looking for an appetizer that will capture everyone's attention at parties or gatherings with friends, this cheese and vegetable appetizer cake is the perfect solution. With an impressive appearance and exceptional taste, our recipe combines textures and flavors, transforming a simple meal into a memorable culinary experience. Let's discover together the necessary steps to create this delicacy!

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 10 minutes
Cooling Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours and 40 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients:

- 300 g dark bread
- 100 g butter (at room temperature)
- 1 bunch of green onions
- 100 g cherry tomatoes
- 200 g pickled cucumbers
- 70 g green olive slices
- 6 g black olive slices
- 150 g pressed ham
- 100 g dried salami
- 600 g soft cheese
- 200 g cheese pearls
- 30 g parmesan
- 5 packets of gelatin
- 200 ml milk
- Italian herbs (to taste)
- 200 g sour cream
- 1 packet of whipped cream stabilizer
- 1/2 red bell pepper
- 1/2 yellow bell pepper
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh chopped parsley

A Brief History of the Appetizer Cake

The appetizer cake is a versatile dish often found at various festive occasions. This recipe blends tradition with innovation, bringing together simple ingredients to create an elegant appetizer. From holiday meals to informal parties, this cake quickly becomes everyone's favorite.

Step by Step: Preparing the Appetizer Cake

Step 1: Preparing the Pan and the Base

1. Start by preparing a 27 cm diameter cake pan, ensuring it has a removable ring. Line the bottom of the pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Crumble 2/3 of the dark bread and spread it evenly in the pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to achieve a crispy texture.

Step 2: Preparing the Butter Base

1. Crumble the remaining bread and mix it with the soft butter. This combination will create a delicious and consistent base layer.
2. Spread the bread and butter mixture over the baked base in the pan and level it well. Chill for 45 minutes so that the base hardens.

Step 3: Preparing the Cheese Cream

1. In a bowl, soak the gelatin in 100 ml of milk for 5 minutes. Then, add another 100 ml of milk and heat the mixture over low heat, stirring for 1 minute. Be careful not to boil the gelatin.
2. Allow the gelatin to cool to room temperature.
3. Slice the green onions into rings, the cucumbers into slices, and the ham and salami into cubes. You can quarter the tomatoes, saving a few slices for decoration.
4. Beat the cottage cheese with the cheese pearls until it becomes a smooth mixture. Then, add all the prepared ingredients (olives, salt, pepper, Italian herbs, and chopped parsley) and mix gently.

Step 4: Assembling the Cake

1. Pour the cheese cream over the bread base in the pan, smoothing the surface. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (ideally overnight) to set well.

Step 5: Decorating the Cake

1. Once set, carefully remove the cake from the pan. Place it on a serving platter.
2. Whip the sour cream with the whipped cream stabilizer, then add the mayonnaise, salt, and pepper to taste. This mixture will serve as a delightful decoration.
3. Use the whipped cream to cover the cake, decorating it with slices of bell pepper, olives, cucumbers, and sprinkling chopped parsley on top.

Practical Tips:

- Bread: Opt for whole grain or cereal bread for added nutrients.
- Gelatin: Make sure the gelatin is well-hydrated to achieve a smooth texture for the cream.
- Vegetables: You can experiment with other vegetables, such as bell peppers or even mushrooms, to add a personalized touch.
- Serving: This appetizer cake pairs perfectly with a fresh salad or a refreshing drink, such as a fruit cocktail or natural juice.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use feta cheese, ricotta, or even goat cheese to experiment with different flavors.

2. Is this recipe vegetarian?
You can adapt the recipe by omitting the ham and salami, creating a completely vegetarian appetizer cake.

3. How long can this cake be stored in the fridge?
The appetizer cake can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, covered, without losing its flavor and texture.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:

Approximately, a serving of appetizer cake contains about 350-400 calories, depending on the ingredients used. Cheese provides a good source of protein, while vegetables bring essential vitamins and fiber. This appetizer is an excellent option to enrich festive meals with delicious flavors and varied textures.

Variations:

- Fish Appetizer Cake: Replace the ham and salami with tuna or smoked salmon for a delicious variant.
- Vegan Appetizer Cake: Use vegan cheese and replace the mayonnaise with an avocado-based sauce.

In conclusion, this cheese and vegetable appetizer cake is not only a simple recipe but also a wonderful way to bring a touch of creativity and flavor to your table. Whether you serve it at a party or a family gathering, it is sure to be appreciated by everyone! I invite you to try it and enjoy every bite!