Beef Andreea

Beef Rolls with Vegetables and Cream Cheese: A Recipe for the Family's Heart

About the Recipe

Beef rolls with vegetables are a special recipe, filled with love and warmth, that I created for my daughter, Andreea. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner, as well as for special occasions, bringing to the table a delicious combination of flavors and textures. Each bite offers an explosion of taste, and the presentation will surely impress.

Preparation Time

- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Baking time: 45 minutes
- Total: 1 hour and 15 minutes
- Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 500 g veal tenderloin
- 1 red onion
- 100 g cheese
- 1 potato
- Greens (dill, parsley)
- 1 chicken breast fillet
- 2 slices of bacon without rind
- 2 slices of zucchini
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for brushing
- 1 tablespoon cream cheese with herbs (e.g., Creme Bonjour)
- A bowl of diced vegetables (peas, carrot, and potato)

Necessary Utensils

- A meat mallet
- A baking tray
- Aluminum foil
- A pot for boiling vegetables
- A spatula or spoon for mixing

Step by Step

1. Preparing the Beef

1. Start by cutting the veal tenderloin into pieces about 5 cm square. Use the meat mallet to gently pound them until they become flat and thinner. This will help tenderize the meat and make rolling easier.
2. Season each piece with salt and pepper for a special taste.

2. Preparing the Filling

1. Finely chop the red onion, greens, chicken breast, bacon, and zucchini. This combination will bring a delicious contrast of textures and flavors.
2. In a bowl, mix all the chopped ingredients. Make sure each ingredient is well distributed to achieve a uniform taste in the rolls.

3. Filling and Rolling the Meat

1. Place a spoonful of the vegetable mixture in the center of each piece of meat.
2. Carefully roll the meat, ensuring that the filling stays inside. Secure the rolls with toothpicks to maintain their shape.

4. Preparing for Baking

1. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius.
2. Place the rolls in a baking tray. Lightly brush them with olive oil to achieve a golden and delicious crust.
3. Cover the tray with aluminum foil to retain moisture, facilitating even cooking.

5. Cooking the Vegetables

1. In a pot, add the diced vegetables (peas, carrot, and potato) and boil them in salted water until they become soft, but not too soft. They should be al dente to maintain their texture.
2. When they are almost ready, add a teaspoon of olive oil for extra flavor and nutrition.
3. Drain the vegetables well and, while still hot, mix them with the cream cheese with herbs. This will add a creamy and savory touch to the dish.

6. Baking

1. Place the tray with rolls in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Remove the foil in the last 10 minutes to allow the rolls to brown nicely.

7. Serving

1. On a plate, place a bed of vegetables with cream cheese.
2. Cut the beef rolls into slices and place them on top of the vegetables. As a touch of originality, you can cut the baked potato into the shape of a butterfly or flower and place it in the center of the plate for a playful presentation.

Practical Tips

- Choosing the Meat: Opt for high-quality veal, as it will tenderize more easily and taste better.
- Fresh Herbs: Using fresh herbs will significantly enhance the flavor of the rolls. Dill and parsley pair perfectly with veal.
- Filling Variations: You can experiment with other ingredients, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, to add diversity to the recipe.
- Serving: These rolls are delicious cold, so you can use them as an appetizer at a party or picnic.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe is not only tasty but also nutritious. Veal is an excellent source of protein, and the vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals. Cheese offers calcium, while the cream cheese with herbs adds healthy fats.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use chicken instead of beef? Yes, you can substitute beef with chicken breast. This will reduce the cooking time.
- How can I make the recipe lower in calories? A lighter version can be made by omitting the bacon and using low-fat cheese.
- Is it possible to prepare the rolls in advance? Absolutely! You can prepare the rolls a day ahead, and bake them the next day.

Pairing Suggestions

These beef rolls pair perfectly with a dry red wine, such as a Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, which will highlight the flavors of the meat. Additionally, a green salad appetizer with lemon and olive oil will ideally complement the meal.

Conclusion

Beef rolls with vegetables and cream cheese are more than just a simple recipe; they represent a family story, a way to gather loved ones around the table. Experiment with the ingredients and adapt the recipe to your preferences to create a personalized culinary experience. Cooking is an art, and each meal is an opportunity to create unforgettable memories. Bon appétit!