Snails with smoked cheese

Cheese and Smoked Meat Snails: A Quick and Tasty Delicacy

Are you looking for a simple yet impressive recipe that adds a touch of flavor to your meal? Cheese and smoked meat snails are the perfect appetizers that can be served on any occasion. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but will also delight even the most discerning taste buds. Inspired by a pleasant visit to a friend, this recipe uses puff pastry, making everything simpler and quicker.

General Information
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Baking time: 35-45 minutes
- Total time: 55-65 minutes
- Number of servings: 12 snails

Ingredients
- 1 package of puff pastry (approximately 400g)
- 3-4 tablespoons of cream cheese
- 4 large slices of cheese
- 4-5 slices of smoked pork
- For decoration:
- 1 egg yolk
- 1-2 tablespoons of milk
- Flax seeds, sesame, pumpkin seeds (to taste)

Nutritional Benefits
This appetizer is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Cheese provides protein and calcium, while the smoked meat adds a rich flavor, but make sure to choose a quality option. Cream cheese adds a creamy texture, and the decorative seeds not only enhance the appearance but also contribute fiber and healthy fats.

Preparation Technique

Step 1: Preparing the Dough
The first step is to let the puff pastry thaw according to the package instructions. Once it is soft and easy to handle, take a clean work surface and sprinkle a bit of flour to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cream Cheese
In a small bowl, mix the cream cheese to make it less dense. This will help spread it evenly over the dough. Be careful not to make it too thick, so it doesn’t affect rolling the dough.

Step 3: Assembling the Filling
Evenly spread the cream cheese over the entire sheet of dough. Then, place the cheese slices and smoked pork slices alternately to ensure an even distribution of flavors. It is important to use fresh and quality ingredients for an exceptional result.

Step 4: Rolling the Snails
Cut the dough horizontally into equal portions up to where you used the filling. Then, carefully roll the sheet of dough lengthwise, ensuring to get a tight roll. Repeat this process with the remaining dough and filling.

Step 5: Preparing for Baking
Place the snails on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. It doesn’t matter if they are standing or lying down; both options will yield a delicious result. In a small bowl, mix the egg yolk with the milk and use a brush to glaze the snails. Don’t forget to leave the edges uncovered for a crispy texture.

Step 6: Decorating
Sprinkle flax seeds, sesame, or pumpkin seeds on top of the snails according to personal preference. This step not only adds an attractive appearance but also an extra flavor.

Step 7: Baking
Put the tray in the preheated oven at 170°C. Bake for 35-45 minutes or until the snails turn golden and fluffy. It is essential to check occasionally to avoid burning.

Serving
Cheese and smoked meat snails are best served warm when the cheese is soft and creamy. Offer them alongside a fine yogurt or a fresh salad to create a pleasant contrast. You can reheat them in the microwave if you have leftovers from a previous meal; this way, you will preserve the delicious taste.

Variations and Suggestions
- Filling variations: You can replace the pork with turkey ham or even roasted vegetables for a vegetarian option. Additionally, adding herbs like oregano or basil can enhance the flavor.
- Other combinations: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or brie, and add olives for a more complex taste.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use homemade dough? Absolutely! If you have time, homemade dough will add a personal touch and a fresher taste.
2. How can I store the snails? Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to return to their original texture.
3. Is this recipe suitable for parties? Definitely! These snails are perfect for parties as they can be prepared in advance and served hot or cold.

Conclusion
Cheese and smoked meat snails are an excellent choice for any meal, whether served as an appetizer or at breakfast. The crispy texture, rich flavor, and irresistible aroma will make these snails a family and friends' favorite. So let’s enjoy cooking and turn every meal into a celebration of taste! Enjoy your meal!