Savory cake

Savory appetizer loaf

When it comes to delicious, quick, and accessible dishes, the appetizer loaf takes the top spot. This recipe will not only fill your table with welcome flavors but will also help you use up leftover ingredients from your fridge. Whether you're serving guests or simply craving a hearty snack, this appetizer loaf recipe is the ideal choice. It's simple, tasty, and can be customized according to your preferences. Let's discover together the steps to achieve a perfect appetizer loaf!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8-10

Ingredients:

- 4-5 eggs (preferably at room temperature for better mixing)
- 3-4 tablespoons of melted butter (or oil, depending on preferences)
- 100 g flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (about 10 g)
- Salt (to taste)
- 250 g salami, bologna, ham, or bacon (use what you have in the fridge)
- 1 can of pitted black olives (about 150 g)
- 1 small red bell pepper
- 1 small green bell pepper
- A handful of chopped fresh parsley
- 100-150 g grated cheese (or your favorite cheese)

Recipe history

The appetizer loaf has deep roots in culinary tradition, with a versatility that has made it popular in many cultures. It is often served at parties, birthdays, or other festive events, being easy to prepare and full of flavors. Each family personalizes their recipe by adding their favorite ingredients, making this dish an excellent choice to express your culinary creativity.

Preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Make sure the eggs are at room temperature, as they will incorporate better into the mixture. If using butter, melt it in the microwave or on the stove, then let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Mixing the wet ingredients
In a large bowl, beat the eggs with a whisk or electric mixer until fluffy. Add the melted butter (or oil) and mix well, ensuring there are no lumps.

Step 3: Combining the dry ingredients
In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. This step is essential to ensure an even texture for the loaf. Sifting the flour helps avoid lumps in the mixture.

Step 4: Mixing the composition
Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring with a spatula or wooden spoon. Do not overmix, just until the ingredients are well combined.

Step 5: Adding the filling ingredients
Now it's time to add the filling ingredients! Chop the salami, ham, and bell peppers into small cubes. Add the chopped olives, parsley, and grated cheese to the loaf mixture and gently mix to evenly distribute the ingredients.

Step 6: Preparing the baking pan
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Grease a loaf pan or a cake tin with a little oil, then you can use aluminum foil to help with easier removal of the loaf from the pan after baking.

Step 7: Baking the loaf
Pour the mixture into the pan and level the surface with a spatula. Place the pan in the preheated oven and let it bake for 45-50 minutes. You can check if it's done using a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the loaf is perfectly baked.

Step 8: Cooling and serving
After baking, let the loaf cool slightly in the pan (about 10 minutes) to stabilize. Then, carefully remove it from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Slice it and serve warm or at room temperature.

Practical tips:

- You can add other ingredients based on your preferences, such as mushrooms or roasted vegetables.
- Make sure all ingredients are cut into small pieces to mix evenly into the composition.
- If you want a more intense flavor, you can add spices like pepper, oregano, or basil.
- This appetizer loaf is perfect to be served alongside a fresh salad and a refreshing drink, such as lemonade or a fruit cocktail.

Nutritional values (per serving, estimated):

- Calories: 250
- Protein: 10 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can use any type of processed meat you have on hand. For example, you can add chicken or turkey.

2. What should I do if I don't have olives?
Olives can be omitted or replaced with other vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers.

3. How long can I keep the appetizer loaf?
The appetizer loaf keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days, covered with plastic wrap.

4. Can I freeze the loaf?
Yes, you can freeze the raw loaf before baking. Make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.

This appetizer loaf is more than just a simple recipe; it's an excellent way to bring family and friends together at the table, offering a versatile and tasty dish. So put on an apron, gather the ingredients, and let your creativity shine in the kitchen!