Smoked Ham Salad on Gruyere Potato Coins

Gruyere Potato Coins with Smoked Ham Salad Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

This recipe for Smoked Ham Salad on Gruyere Potato Coins is a delicious and elegant appetizer that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of smoky ham, tangy cornichons, and creamy mayonnaise on top of crispy potato coins makes for a flavorful and satisfying bite.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on the classic ham and cheese pairing. The use of Gruyere cheese adds a rich and nutty flavor to the dish, while the tarragon and capers provide a fresh and herbaceous note. The idea of serving the ham salad on top of crispy potato coins adds a unique and elegant touch to the dish.

Ingredients

2 long thin potatoes, cut into 0.13 inch thick slices
1 tbsp olive oil
salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 cup shredded gruyere cheese (about 4 oz or 113 g)
0.5 lb (227 g) lean smoked ham, finely chopped
3 tbsp mayonnaise
1 scallion, finely chopped
1 tbsp finely chopped cornichons
1 tbsp finely chopped capers
1 tsp finely chopped tarragon
2 tsp dijon mustard

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
Using a 2-inch round biscuit cutter, cut the potato slices into rounds.
In a bowl, toss the potatoes with the olive oil and arrange them in a single layer on the baking sheet.
Season lightly with salt and pepper, then sprinkle with the cheese.
Bake the potato rounds for about 45 minutes, or until deep golden; let cool.
Transfer the potato coins to paper towels.
In a small bowl, combine the ham with the mayonnaise, scallion, cornichons, capers, tarragon, and mustard.
Season with salt and pepper.
Spoon the ham salad onto the potato coins and serve.

Variations

Substitute the smoked ham with cooked chicken or turkey for a different flavor profile.
Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or Swiss, for a unique twist on the recipe.
Add diced pickles or olives to the ham salad for extra flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to slice the potatoes thinly and evenly to ensure that they cook evenly and become crispy.

- Be sure to season the potatoes with salt and pepper before baking to enhance their flavor.

- Allow the potato coins to cool slightly before topping them with the ham salad to prevent the cheese from melting too quickly.

Serving Suggestions

This Smoked Ham Salad on Gruyere Potato Coins recipe can be served as an appetizer at a dinner party or as a light lunch with a side salad.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the potato coins ensures that they become crispy and golden brown.

- Mixing the ham salad ingredients together allows the flavors to meld and develop.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use russet or Yukon Gold potatoes instead of thin potatoes.

- Substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter option.

Make Ahead Tips

The ham salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The potato coins can be baked ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the potato coins on a platter and top each one with a dollop of the ham salad. Garnish with fresh tarragon leaves or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. It also goes well with a light beer or sparkling water with a twist of lemon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the potato coins on a baking sheet and bake in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this recipe contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of this Smoked Ham Salad on Gruyere Potato Coins recipe contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of this recipe contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of this recipe contains approximately 10 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and eggs (mayonnaise).

Summary

This recipe is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals.

Summary

This Smoked Ham Salad on Gruyere Potato Coins recipe is a delicious and elegant appetizer that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of smoky ham, tangy cornichons, and creamy mayonnaise on top of crispy potato coins makes for a flavorful and satisfying bite. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of awe. It was a warm spring day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret, who had just returned from a trip to France. She had learned this exquisite dish from a local chef in the charming town of Gruyere, and she couldn't wait to share it with me.

As I watched Margaret prepare the smoked ham salad on Gruyere potato coins, I was struck by the elegance and simplicity of the dish. The combination of flavors and textures was unlike anything I had ever tasted before. The creamy Gruyere cheese melted perfectly onto the crisp potato rounds, while the smoky ham added a rich and savory element.

Margaret explained to me that the key to making this dish was in the quality of the ingredients. She had carefully selected a premium smoked ham and aged Gruyere cheese from a local deli, and had hand-picked the freshest herbs and vegetables from her own garden.

As I helped Margaret assemble the dish, I listened intently as she shared the story of how she had come to learn this recipe. It was a chance encounter with a French chef during her travels in Europe, who had taken her under his wing and taught her the art of French cuisine. Margaret had spent weeks in his kitchen, observing and learning, and had come away with a treasure trove of recipes and techniques.

After Margaret had finished preparing the smoked ham salad on Gruyere potato coins, we sat down to enjoy our meal together. The flavors danced on my tongue, and I savored each bite, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience such culinary mastery.

From that day on, the recipe for smoked ham salad on Gruyere potato coins became a beloved staple in my repertoire. I would often prepare it for special occasions and dinner parties, impressing friends and family with my culinary skills.

Over the years, I have added my own twist to the recipe, experimenting with different herbs and spices to create new variations. But no matter how many times I make it, the dish always brings back memories of that sunny afternoon with Margaret, and the magic of discovering a new culinary masterpiece.

As I pass on this recipe to you, my dear grandchild, I hope that you will find as much joy and inspiration in cooking as I have. Remember to always use the finest ingredients, and to cook with love and passion. And who knows, perhaps one day you too will have a chance encounter with a master chef, and learn the secrets of a new and delicious dish. Bon appétit!