π©βπ³ Auntie Nan’s Ham & Asparagus Spirals π΄
Auntie Nan’s Ham & Asparagus Spirals are a delicious appetizer or snack that combines the flavors of ham, asparagus, and creamy cheese in a delightful spiral form. This dish is perfect for parties or gatherings, and it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
π History:
The exact origin of this recipe is a bit unclear, but it’s a popular choice for many home cooks and has likely evolved over time as a favorite family recipe. The combination of ham and asparagus is a classic one that has been enjoyed in various forms for generations.
π₯ Components:
To make Auntie Nan’s Ham & Asparagus Spirals, you will need the following ingredients:
- Thinly sliced ham (around 10-12 slices)
- Fresh asparagus spears (10-12)
- Cream cheese (1/2 cup)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup)
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Puff pastry sheets (1 or 2, depending on the size)
πͺ Steps to Prepare:
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Preheat your oven to 400Β°F (200Β°C).
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Trim the tough ends of the asparagus and blanch them in boiling water for about 2 minutes. Then, quickly transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process and retain their bright green color. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
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In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until it’s well combined and creamy.
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Roll out the puff pastry sheet(s) on a lightly floured surface. Spread a thin layer of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the pastry.
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Lay the ham slices on top of the cream cheese layer, slightly overlapping them to cover the entire surface.
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Place the blanched asparagus spears on top of the ham. Make sure they are aligned lengthwise along the pastry sheet.
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Gently roll up the puff pastry, creating a log-like shape. Press the seams to seal.
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Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 1-inch thick spirals.
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Place the spirals on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.
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Serve your Ham & Asparagus Spirals hot, and enjoy!
β° Preparation Time:
The preparation time for Auntie Nan’s Ham & Asparagus Spirals is approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on your cooking skills and experience. It’s a relatively simple recipe, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced home cooks.
These spirals are not only visually appealing with their spiral shape but also incredibly tasty due to the combination of ham, asparagus, and creamy cheese. They make for a fantastic appetizer or snack for any occasion. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful dish with family and friends! π½οΈπ
π½οΈ Nutrition Facts and Health Information for Auntie Nan’s Ham & Asparagus Spirals:
While Auntie Nan’s Ham & Asparagus Spirals are a delicious and indulgent treat, it’s important to be mindful of their nutritional content. Here’s some nutrition information and health considerations:
π Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values for 1 Spiral):
- Calories: 70-90 calories per spiral
- Total Fat: 5-7 grams
- Saturated Fat: 2-3 grams
- Cholesterol: 10-15 milligrams
- Sodium: 150-200 milligrams
- Carbohydrates: 3-4 grams
- Protein: 3-4 grams
- Fiber: 1 gram
π‘ Health Information:
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Protein: Auntie Nan’s Ham & Asparagus Spirals contain a moderate amount of protein, primarily from the ham and cream cheese. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.
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Fats: These spirals have a relatively high fat content, mainly due to the ham and cream cheese. While fats are necessary for a balanced diet, it’s essential to consume them in moderation, especially saturated fats.
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Sodium: The sodium content can be significant, mainly from the ham and cheese. High sodium intake can contribute to high blood pressure, so it’s important to be mindful of your overall sodium intake.
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Calories: These spirals are moderately calorie-dense, so portion control is key if you’re watching your calorie intake.
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Fiber: The fiber content is relatively low in this dish, which is typical for appetizers or snacks. Adding more vegetables to your meal can help increase the fiber content.
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Balanced Diet: Auntie Nan’s Ham & Asparagus Spirals are a tasty indulgence, but they should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Consider serving them alongside a variety of vegetables and other nutrient-dense foods to ensure you get a well-rounded meal.
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Special Diets: If you have dietary restrictions, you can consider using lower-fat or lower-sodium ingredients to make a healthier version of this recipe. Additionally, you can explore gluten-free or dairy-free alternatives if needed.
Remember that the nutritional content can vary based on specific brands and ingredients used, so it’s a good practice to check labels for precise values. Enjoy these spirals as an occasional treat, and balance your diet with a variety of foods for a healthy lifestyle. π₯¦π₯π½οΈ
