Puff pastry strudel with ham, very tasty and we will repeat it with pleasure

Puff Pastry Ham and Cheese Strudel: A Symphony of Savory Flavors

This delightful strudel is a testament to the versatility of puff pastry. Its flaky layers encase a medley of savory fillings, resulting in a satisfying and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a party appetizer. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort for maximum enjoyment.

Ingredients:

• 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
• 1 cup grated cheese (mozzarella, Gruyère, or your favorite)
• 1/2 cup thinly sliced ham
• 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped fresh herbs (parsley, chives, etc.)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the filling: In a bowl, combine the grated cheese, ham, ricotta, and spinach. Season with salt and pepper, and add any desired herbs.
3. Assemble the strudel: Unroll the puff pastry sheet onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread the filling evenly over the pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Roll and seal: Gently roll up the pastry, starting from one of the long sides. Pinch the edges to seal the strudel, and then tuck the ends under to prevent the filling from spilling out.
5. Brush with egg wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. Brush the egg wash over the top of the strudel. This will help it achieve a beautiful golden brown color.
6. Bake: Bake the strudel for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed up.
7. Serve: Let the strudel cool slightly before slicing and serving. It’s delicious warm or at room temperature.

Tips and Tricks:

• Get creative with the filling: Feel free to experiment with different fillings, such as cooked vegetables, mushrooms, or other types of cheese.
• Add a touch of spice: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can add a subtle kick to the filling.
• Don’t overfill the strudel: Too much filling can make it difficult to roll and seal the pastry.
• Freeze for later: You can assemble the strudel ahead of time and freeze it. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
• Serve with a dipping sauce: A simple marinara sauce or a dollop of pesto can complement the flavors of the strudel.

Perfect for Brunch, easy to reheat or to eat cold at the office, unique bite for your cocktails or Happy Hour !!

This puff pastry ham and cheese strudel is a simple yet satisfying dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Its versatility allows you to customize it to your liking, making it a perfect canvas for culinary creativity. So go ahead and experiment with different fillings and flavors to discover your own unique twist on this classic recipe.

Buon Appetito!