Cheese Roll

Cheese Roll: A Savory Delight for Special Moments

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 2 hours and 50 minutes (including cooling time)
Number of servings: 8

Welcome to my kitchen! Today we will prepare a cheese roll, an elegant and delicious appetizer, perfect for any festive occasion or a gathering with friends. This recipe is not only simple but also full of flavors, featuring a combination of creamy cheese, fresh vegetables, and a fluffy texture that will delight your taste buds. Besides being a quick and easy dessert to make, our roll can be customized according to your preferences.

But before we start, let's dive a little into the history of this dish. Rolls have always been appreciated in gastronomy for their versatility. This cheese roll combines tradition with originality, having deep roots in culinary culture, where taste and appearance are equally important. Whether you serve it at a holiday meal or as a delicious snack, the roll will surely be a hit.

Ingredients for the roll:
- 3 eggs
- 5 tablespoons yogurt
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 packet baking powder (about 10 g)
- 400 g flour
- 100 ml milk
- 50 ml oil
- 1 teaspoon pepper paste

Ingredients for the filling:
- 300 g cottage cheese
- 1 bunch green onions
- 1 red bell pepper
- 100 g sour cream
- 100 g ham (optional)

Step-by-step instructions:

Step 1: Preparing the roll mixture
We start by preheating the oven to 180°C (350°F). In a large bowl, separate the egg whites from the yolks. Using a mixer, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form. This step is essential to ensure an airy texture for the roll.

Step 2: Continuing with the yolks
Next, add the yolks one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, incorporate the yogurt, oil, milk, and pepper paste, continuously mixing for a homogeneous mixture.

Step 3: Flour and baking powder
In another bowl, sift the flour together with the baking powder. This will help aerate the flour, providing a better texture for the roll. Gradually incorporate the flour mixture into the wet mixture, gently folding with a spatula to avoid deflating the egg whites. This creates a light and fluffy batter.

Step 4: Baking
Line a baking tray (approximately 30x40 cm) with parchment paper and pour the mixture evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the roll turns golden and passes the toothpick test (when the toothpick comes out clean, the roll is ready).

Step 5: Cooling
Once baked, remove the tray from the oven and let the roll cool for a few minutes. Then, using the parchment paper, carefully roll it up to maintain its shape. Allow the roll to cool completely.

Step 6: Preparing the filling
In the meantime, let's prepare the filling. In a bowl, mix the cottage cheese with the sour cream, chopped green onions, and diced red bell pepper. Add salt to taste. This filling is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, being high in protein and vitamins.

Step 7: Assembling the roll
After the roll has cooled, carefully unwrap the parchment paper and spread the filling evenly over the surface of the roll. Place slices of ham (if desired) on top of the filling and roll it up again using the parchment paper. Wrap the roll in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 2 hours to firm up and blend the flavors.

Step 8: Serving
After chilling, remove the roll and slice it with a sharp knife. You can serve it as an appetizer on a beautiful platter, alongside some salad leaves or fresh vegetables. This cheese roll is perfect to be paired with a glass of white wine or a refreshing lemonade, providing a pleasant contrast to the rich flavors of the filling.

Useful tips:
1. Choose high-quality cottage cheese for better taste. You can also experiment with other types of cheese, such as feta or ricotta.
2. If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can omit the ham and add vegetables like spinach or zucchini.
3. The roll can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, but it is best enjoyed fresh.
4. If you want to add a splash of color, you can use bell peppers of different colors or olives for the filling.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of white flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but the texture will be slightly different, and the roll will have a more pronounced flavor.

2. What other fillings can I use?
You can experiment with various combinations, such as tuna with mayonnaise, roasted vegetables, or even a sweet filling with cream cheese and fruit.

3. How can I make the roll less salty?
Choose low-sodium cheese and ham or use fresh ingredients without additives.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This cheese roll offers a balanced combination of proteins, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Each serving contains approximately 220 calories, depending on the exact ingredients used. Cottage cheese is an excellent source of calcium and protein, while the vegetables add essential vitamins and fiber.

I hope this cheese roll recipe has inspired you to experiment in the kitchen. Feel free to share the final result with your loved ones and enjoy the moments spent together! Cooking is an art, and each recipe is an opportunity to create unforgettable memories. Enjoy your meal!