Ham and Arugula Puff Pastry Swirls

The ham and arugula puff pastry swirls are delicious and easy-to-prepare snacks, ideal for an aperitif or as an appetizer.

Ingredients

• 1 rectangular sheet of puff pastry
• 100 g of thinly sliced cooked ham
• 100 g of fresh arugula
• 100 g of cream cheese (like Philadelphia)
• Salt and pepper to taste (optional)

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 180 °C (350 °F).
2. Roll out the puff pastry and spread a uniform layer of cream cheese on it.
3. Distribute the slices of cooked ham over the cheese, covering the entire surface.
4. Wash and dry the arugula well, then spread it over the cooked ham. If you wish, you can add a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Start rolling the puff pastry from the long side to form a log. Do this tightly to keep the filling in place.
6. Once the log is formed, wrap it in cling film and put it in the refrigerator for about 15-30 minutes. This step will help maintain its shape during cutting.
7. Remove the log from the refrigerator and cut it into slices about 2 cm thick.
8. Arrange the swirls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each one.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the swirls are golden brown and crispy.
10. Take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

The swirls are best enjoyed while still warm and the cheese is soft and stringy. Enjoy your meal!

Curiosity

Swirls are a versatile idea for appetizers and finger food. The combination of cooked ham and arugula is a classic in Italian cuisine, balancing the sweet and delicate flavor of the ham with the slight spiciness of the arugula. Variations can often be found that include other ingredients such as sun-dried tomatoes, Taggiasca olives, or different types of cheeses.