Rolls with cream cheese

Cream Cheese and Ham Rolls: A Quick and Tasty Delicacy

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 10 rolls

Cream cheese and ham rolls are a perfect choice for a quick snack, an elegant appetizer, or a delicious breakfast. This simple yet flavorful recipe will win you over from the very first bite. Whether you serve them at a party, during a get-together with friends, or just to treat yourself, these rolls are always a hit. Next, I will guide you step by step to achieve perfect rolls, and at the end, I will provide you with some serving suggestions and variations.

Ingredients:

- 10 thin slices of Prague ham
- 350 g cottage cheese (for a creamy texture, choose well-drained cheese)
- 1 tablespoon of butter (at room temperature)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A bunch of fresh dill (washed and finely chopped)
- 1 red bell pepper (for decoration)

Ingredient tips:

1. Prague ham: Choose the thinnest slices for easy rolling and a delicate texture.
2. Cottage cheese: You can use higher-fat cottage cheese for a richer taste. If you want a more intense flavor, you can opt for crumbled feta cheese.
3. Fresh dill: It is essential to use fresh dill to add a fresh and aromatic taste to the rolls. If you don't have dill, you can substitute it with parsley or chives.
4. Bell pepper: It not only adds a unique look to the rolls but also a touch of sweetness and crunch.

Preparation:

1. Preparing the cream cheese: In a bowl, place the cottage cheese and mash it well with a fork until creamy. Add the butter and mix until homogeneous. It is important to use room temperature butter for easier incorporation.

2. Seasoning: Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste. If you desire a special flavor, add a bit of vegetable seasoning or other preferred spices.

3. Adding dill: Wash the dill well, remove the stems, and chop it very finely. Add it to the cream cheese and mix until it becomes a homogeneous paste. Here, the fresh aroma of the dill will perfectly blend with the cheese.

4. Assembling the rolls: Take a slice of ham and place a spoonful of cream cheese in the center. Use a knife to spread the cheese evenly over the entire surface. Carefully roll the ham, starting from one end, to achieve a tightly rolled shape. Secure the roll with a toothpick to maintain its shape.

5. Decorating: Place a thin slice of bell pepper on each roll, adding a splash of color and a sweet and sour taste.

Serving suggestions:

Cream cheese and ham rolls can be served as appetizers alongside a fresh salad or with savory crackers. You can also pair these rolls with a glass of white wine or a refreshing cocktail for an unforgettable culinary experience.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of meat? Yes, you can experiment with other types of meat, such as boiled chicken or turkey, for a lighter version.
2. How can I store the rolls? These rolls keep well in the refrigerator, tightly sealed, for 2-3 days.
3. Can I make them a day in advance? Absolutely! The rolls can be prepared a day in advance, making them ideal for parties or gatherings.
4. What other ingredients can I add? You can add chopped olives, bell peppers, or even slices of tomatoes to diversify the flavor.

Nutritional benefits:

These rolls are an excellent source of protein due to the cheese and ham, as well as vitamins from the dill. Consuming cottage cheese provides calcium, essential for bone health. Additionally, dill is known for its digestive and antioxidant properties.

Possible variations:

You can transform this recipe by adding ingredients such as:

- Nuts or almonds: Chopped and added to the cream cheese, providing a crunchy texture.
- Herbs: Replace dill with thyme or basil for a different flavor.
- Blue cheese: If you are a fan of strong cheeses, add a bit of blue cheese for a gourmet touch.

In conclusion, cream cheese and ham rolls are a quick, easy-to-make, and extremely versatile recipe. I encourage you to try them and personalize them to your taste. They will surely become a favorite on your menu!