Appetizer roll with cream cheese and pressed ham

Appetizer Roll with Cream Cheese and Pressed Ham - A Delicacy for Any Occasion

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

Are you looking for an easy yet impressive recipe for festive meals or a gathering with friends? The appetizer roll with cream cheese and pressed ham is the perfect answer! This delicious combination brings together textures and flavors that will delight everyone's taste buds. From the soft and fluffy base to the creamy and flavorful filling, each bite is an explosion of taste!

The history of this roll spans several generations, being present in many culinary cultures as a popular choice for appetizers. It is a versatile recipe that can be adapted with different ingredients, perfect for serving at parties, holiday meals, or simply as a delicious snack.

The ingredients needed for the recipe are simple and easily accessible. Here’s what you will need:

For the base:
- 250 g margarine (you can also use butter for a richer taste)
- 300 ml milk (preferably semi-skimmed for a creamy texture)
- 200 g flour (high-quality white flour)
- 4 eggs (whole, at room temperature)
- Salt, pepper (to taste)
- Fresh parsley leaves (for flavor and decoration)

For the filling:
- 300 g cream cheese with sour cream Delaco (or any preferred brand)
- 100 g butter (soft, at room temperature)
- Fresh green onion leaves (for an extra touch of freshness)
- Dill sprigs (the perfect flavor that complements the cheese)
- Fresh parsley leaves (also added to the filling to enhance the taste)
- Salt, white pepper (to not alter the color of the filling)
- 6-7 slices of pressed ham (you can opt for turkey ham or other varieties, according to preference)

Step by step to success:

1. Preparing the filling: In a large bowl, add the cream cheese and soft butter. Use a mixer or spatula to mix these ingredients well until they become a smooth paste. Add the chopped green onion, dill, and parsley. Season with salt and white pepper, mixing again to integrate all the flavors. Reserve the filling in the fridge to firm up a bit, which will make spreading it on the base easier.

2. Preparing the dough: In a saucepan, melt the margarine (or butter) over low heat. Once completely melted, remove the saucepan from the heat and add the flour. Stir vigorously to avoid lumps. Immediately, add the milk and continue mixing until the mixture becomes homogeneous. It is essential to achieve a smooth consistency.

3. Adding the eggs: After the mixture has cooled slightly, add the whole eggs and a pinch of salt. Use a mixer or spatula to combine everything until you obtain a batter similar to flowing cream. It is important that this is fluid but has a consistent texture.

4. Baking the base: Prepare a baking tray measuring 32 x 35 cm, lining it with baking paper. Pour the batter into the tray, leveling it evenly. Sprinkle the parsley leaves over the entire surface of the batter. This detail adds not only flavor but also a pleasant appearance to the roll. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (medium heat) for about 25 minutes, until the base is golden and slightly firm.

5. Cooling the base: Once the base is baked, carefully remove it from the oven and turn it onto another sheet of baking paper, leaving the browned side up. Carefully remove the baking paper from the bottom. Allow it to cool slightly, but not too much, so you can easily spread the cream cheese.

6. Assembling the roll: When the base is just warm, evenly spread the cream cheese over the entire surface. Place the slices of pressed ham on top. Now, patiently roll the base from one end to the other, forming a tight roll. It is important not to rush so that the roll does not break.

7. Final cooling: Wrap the roll in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and leave it in the fridge for a few hours, ideally between 3 and 5 hours. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to combine and the roll to firm up.

8. Serving: After it has been in the fridge, remove the roll and cut it into slices about 2 cm thick. These slices will look spectacular and will be perfect for any meal. You can serve them as an appetizer alongside a fresh green salad or with a yogurt sauce for an extra touch of refinement.

Serving suggestions: The appetizer roll with cream cheese and pressed ham pairs perfectly with a glass of white wine or a fresh fruit cocktail. Additionally, you can add some olives or raw vegetables next to the platter for an even more appealing look.

Possible variations: You can customize this recipe according to your preferences. Replace the pressed ham with smoked salmon or steamed chicken for a healthier option. You can also add olives or bell peppers for a more intense flavor.

Nutritional benefits: This roll offers a combination of protein from cheese and ham, as well as vitamins and minerals from the greens. The base made from flour and eggs provides necessary carbohydrates for energy. It is an appetizer that, when consumed in moderation, can be included in a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use another type of cheese? Yes, you can try feta or ricotta cheese for a different taste.
- Can I freeze the roll? Although it is recommended to consume it fresh, you can freeze the leftovers, but the texture may suffer.
- How can I make the roll less fatty? Use light cheese and reduce the amount of butter in the filling.

In conclusion, the appetizer roll with cream cheese and pressed ham is not just a delicious recipe but also an opportunity to impress your guests with a beautiful presentation and diverse flavors. Do not hesitate to experiment and add your favorite ingredients! Cooking is an art, and every meal is a story we share with loved ones. Enjoy your meal!