Flaky Zucchini and Ham Swirls Recipe
If you’re looking for a delightful, savory appetizer that’s easy to prepare and perfect for a variety of occasions, these flaky zucchini and ham swirls are an excellent choice. With tender puff pastry, the subtle taste of zucchini, savory ham, and melted provolone cheese, these swirls create a balanced and irresistible bite. Plus, the sunflower seeds add a lovely crunch on top, enhancing the texture. These swirls are perfect for gatherings, picnics, or as a light snack. Here’s how you can make them!
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Puff Pastry (Pasta Sfoglia) | 1 sheet |
| Zucchini | 320g |
| Cooked Ham (Prosciutto cotto) | 100g |
| Provolone Cheese (Scamorza) | 100g |
| Sunflower Seeds | 15g |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | To taste (q.b.) |
| Fine Salt | To taste (q.b.) |
| Black Pepper | To taste (q.b.) |
| Thyme | To taste (q.b.) |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Zucchini:
Begin by washing and drying the zucchini thoroughly. Trim the ends, then use a coarse grater to shred the zucchini. This will ensure that the zucchini blends well with the other ingredients and releases any excess moisture. -
Cook the Zucchini:
Heat a pan over medium heat and add a splash of extra virgin olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the grated zucchini. Season with fine salt, black pepper, and a pinch of fresh thyme. Sauté the zucchini for about 5 minutes, ensuring that it becomes tender and any moisture evaporates. You want the zucchini to be dry so that it doesn’t make the pastry soggy later. Remove from the heat and let it cool completely. -
Assemble the Swirls:
Once the zucchini has cooled, unfold the sheet of puff pastry onto a clean surface. Evenly distribute the cooked zucchini over the entire surface of the pastry, leaving a 1 cm border along the edges. Layer the zucchini with slices of provolone cheese, followed by the slices of cooked ham. This combination of flavors will create a harmonious, savory filling for your swirls. -
Roll the Pastry:
Gently begin rolling the pastry into a tight log, using the parchment paper to help you guide the roll. Be careful not to roll it too tightly, as this could cause the filling to spill out. Once you have rolled the entire sheet, make sure the ends are sealed well. -
Chill the Roll:
Transfer the rolled pastry to the fridge and let it chill for at least 2 hours. This step helps firm up the roll, making it easier to cut into individual swirls and maintain the structure. -
Slice the Swirls:
After the chilling period, remove the roll from the fridge. Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 12 equal pieces, each about 2 cm wide. You’ll get perfectly uniform, bite-sized swirls. -
Prepare for Baking:
Line a baking tray with parchment paper and arrange the swirls on it, spacing them slightly apart. Sprinkle sunflower seeds over the top of each swirl to add a delightful crunch. -
Bake:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and bake the swirls for 15–20 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffed up. The pastry should be crispy, and the cheese should be melted and bubbly. -
Serve:
Once baked, remove the swirls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm as a delicious appetizer or snack. These swirls are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven but will also keep for a day or two in an airtight container.
These Zucchini and Ham Swirls are an irresistible appetizer that combines the richness of cheese, the lightness of zucchini, and the savory depth of ham. The golden puff pastry adds a delightful crunch, and the sunflower seeds on top give it an extra texture that makes every bite even more satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving something tasty, these swirls will surely impress your guests.
Enjoy making and sharing these delicious Girelle di Sfoglia con Zucchine e Prosciutto with your family and friends. They’re not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor, making them the perfect dish for any occasion.
Happy cooking from Love With Recipes!
