Ham Asparagus Swirls

Ham Asparagus Swirls Recipe - Delicious Swiss Dish

Region / culture: Switzerland | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Ham Asparagus Swirls are a delicious and elegant appetizer that combines the flavors of smoked ham, Swiss cheese, and fresh asparagus. These savory swirls are perfect for a special occasion or as a tasty snack.

History

The origins of Ham Asparagus Swirls are not clear, but they are believed to have been inspired by traditional European recipes that combine ham and asparagus in various ways. This recipe puts a modern twist on the classic flavors, creating a unique and flavorful dish.

Ingredients

16 fresh asparagus spears, trimmed
3 tbsp dijon mustard
16 thin slices smoked ham
16 slices swiss cheese
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup Italian dry bread crumbs
3 tbsp olive oil

How to prepare

In a skillet, cook the asparagus in a small amount of water until it is crisp-tender. Drain well.
Spread about 1 tsp of mustard on each slice of ham.
Top each ham slice with one slice of cheese.
Place an asparagus spear at one end of each ham slice.
Roll up each ham slice tightly and secure with three toothpicks.
Dip each ham roll in beaten egg, then roll in breadcrumbs.
Fry the rolls in oil a few at a time, until they turn golden brown. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
Drain the rolls on paper towels and keep them warm.
Cut each roll between the toothpicks into three pieces.

Variations

Substitute the smoked ham with prosciutto for a different flavor.
Use cheddar or Gruyere cheese instead of Swiss cheese for a richer taste.
Add a sprinkle of herbs or spices, such as thyme or paprika, to the breadcrumb coating for extra flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cook the asparagus until it is crisp-tender to ensure that it retains its texture and flavor.

- Rolling the ham slices tightly and securing them with toothpicks will help the swirls hold their shape during cooking.

- Be careful when frying the swirls, as the oil can splatter. Use a splatter guard if necessary.

- Serve the swirls warm to enjoy them at their best.

Serving Suggestions

Ham Asparagus Swirls can be served as an appetizer at a party or as a side dish with a main course. They pair well with a crisp white wine or a light salad.

Cooking Techniques

Blanching the asparagus before rolling it in the ham helps to soften it slightly and bring out its natural sweetness.

- Frying the swirls in oil gives them a crispy exterior and a golden brown color.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have dijon mustard, you can use regular mustard or honey mustard instead.

- Any type of cheese can be used in place of Swiss cheese, depending on your preference.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Ham Asparagus Swirls up to the frying step ahead of time and refrigerate them until you are ready to cook them. This makes them a convenient option for entertaining.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the Ham Asparagus Swirls on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Ham Asparagus Swirls pair well with a variety of wines, such as Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, or Pinot Noir. They also go well with sparkling water or a fruity cocktail.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Ham Asparagus Swirls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Ham Asparagus Swirls contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Ham Asparagus Swirls contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Ham Asparagus Swirls contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Ham Asparagus Swirls contains approximately 20 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Ham Asparagus Swirls are a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

Ham Asparagus Swirls contain dairy (cheese) and eggs.

Summary

Ham Asparagus Swirls are a balanced dish that provides a good amount of protein and essential nutrients. However, they are also high in fats and calories, so they should be enjoyed in moderation.

Summary

Ham Asparagus Swirls are a delicious and elegant appetizer that combines the flavors of smoked ham, Swiss cheese, and fresh asparagus. With a crispy exterior and a savory filling, these swirls are sure to impress your guests. Enjoy them at your next gathering or as a special treat for yourself.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a beautiful summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha in her cozy little cottage by the sea. Martha was known for her delicious home-cooked meals, and I always looked forward to the culinary delights she would whip up.

On this particular day, Martha was busy in the kitchen, preparing a special dish for our lunch. I could hear the clinking of pots and pans, the sizzle of frying ingredients, and the tantalizing aroma of herbs and spices wafting through the air. Curious to see what she was concocting, I wandered into the kitchen to offer my assistance.

"Ah, there you are, my dear," Martha exclaimed as she caught sight of me. "I'm making ham asparagus swirls today. It's a family recipe that has been passed down through generations, and I thought you might like to learn how to make it."

I was intrigued. I had never heard of ham asparagus swirls before, but the name alone piqued my interest. Martha proceeded to show me the ingredients and demonstrate the steps involved in making this delectable dish. As she expertly rolled out the dough, layered on the ham and asparagus, and carefully twisted the pastry into elegant swirls, I watched in awe.

The finished product was a sight to behold – golden-brown, flaky pastries filled with tender ham and crisp asparagus. I couldn't wait to taste them. As Martha plated up the swirls and we sat down to eat, I savored every bite. The flavors melded together perfectly, and I knew I had to learn how to make this dish for myself.

After lunch, Martha graciously shared the recipe with me. She explained that she had learned it from her grandmother, who had picked it up from a French chef during her travels in Europe many years ago. The recipe had been passed down through the family, each generation adding their own twist to it.

I was thrilled to have the opportunity to learn this cherished family recipe. I took notes as Martha walked me through the ingredients and instructions, and I promised to practice making the ham asparagus swirls on my own. Little did I know that this recipe would become a staple in my own repertoire, a dish I would prepare time and time again for family gatherings and special occasions.

As I made the ham asparagus swirls for the first time in my own kitchen, I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment. The familiar aroma of baking pastries filled the air, bringing back memories of that sunny day at Martha's cottage. I carefully rolled out the dough, layered on the ham and asparagus, and twisted the pastry into elegant swirls, just as Martha had taught me.

When the swirls emerged from the oven, golden-brown and fragrant, I knew I had nailed it. I couldn't wait to share this delicious dish with my loved ones. As they bit into the flaky pastries, their eyes lit up with delight. The ham and asparagus melded together perfectly, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that left everyone craving more.

Over the years, I have continued to make the ham asparagus swirls, each time adding my own touch to the recipe. Sometimes I swap out the ham for bacon or prosciutto, or I sprinkle on some cheese for an extra indulgent twist. No matter how I choose to personalize it, the dish always brings joy to those who taste it.

As I look back on that fateful day when I first discovered the recipe for ham asparagus swirls, I am grateful for the bond it has created between me and my dear friend Martha. The shared love of cooking and the joy of sharing delicious food with others have brought us closer together, creating lasting memories that will be cherished for years to come. And every time I make these swirls, I am reminded of that special day when I learned to create a culinary masterpiece that has become a beloved tradition in my family.