Rustic Roll of Cooked Ham, Smoked Scamorza, and Asparagus

Here’s an Italian recipe that combines the rustic flavor of cooked ham with the smoky taste of scamorza cheese and the freshness of asparagus.

Ingredients

• 1 rectangular puff pastry roll
• 150 g of cooked ham
• 200 g of smoked scamorza cheese
• 1 bunch of asparagus
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 egg (for brushing)
• Sesame or poppy seeds (optional, for garnish)

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 180 °C.
2. Clean the asparagus by removing the harder bottom part. In a pot of boiling salted water, blanch the asparagus for 3-4 minutes, then immediately cool them in ice water to preserve the color.
3. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface.
4. Evenly distribute the cooked ham over the puff pastry, leaving a small margin along the edges.
5. Cut the smoked scamorza cheese into thin slices and place it over the cooked ham.
6. Lay the cooked asparagus horizontally on one of the short sides of the puff pastry and gently roll it up, sealing the edges well.
7. Brush the surface of the roll with the beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds if using them.
8. Place the roll on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before cutting into slices.

Serve this rustic roll as an appetizer or a main course, perhaps accompanied by a fresh mixed salad.

Curiosity

In Italy, asparagus is highly appreciated in the spring when it’s in season and is used in various preparations. This recipe represents a great way to enjoy asparagus in a different form than usual, paired with the strong flavors of ham and smoked scamorza. Puff pastry rolls are extremely versatile and a variety of ingredients can be added to them according to seasonality and personal taste.