Cucumber Roll-Ups with Bresaola and Ricotta
Category: Appetizers
Servings: 12
This fresh and flavorful appetizer combines crisp cucumber, creamy ricotta, and savory bresaola, all wrapped up in a delicious bite. A touch of lemon zest and mint adds a refreshing twist, making these cucumber roll-ups the perfect starter for any occasion. Here’s how to make them:
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cucumbers | 1 |
| Bresaola (sliced) | 12 slices |
| Ricotta (cow’s milk) | 200g |
| Lemon zest | 1 |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Fine salt | To taste |
| Fresh mint leaves | A handful |
Instructions
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Prepare the Ricotta Filling: Begin by sifting the ricotta to make it creamier. Take a bowl and place a sieve over it. Push the ricotta through the sieve using a spatula or spoon, until it becomes smooth and creamy. If you find the ricotta still a little firm, feel free to pass it through the sieve again for an extra smooth texture.
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Add Lemon Zest and Mint: Wash the lemon thoroughly (organic or untreated lemons are recommended). Grate the zest directly into the bowl with the ricotta. Next, wash and finely chop the fresh mint leaves, saving a few for garnish. Stir the chopped mint and lemon zest into the ricotta mixture. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste.
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Prepare the Cucumber: Wash and peel the cucumber, which should weigh around 200g. Using a mandoline slicer (or a sharp knife), cut the cucumber lengthwise into thin strips. Salt each cucumber slice lightly to draw out excess moisture.
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Assemble the Roll-Ups: Place the ricotta mixture into a piping bag. Pipe a generous amount of the creamy filling onto each cucumber strip. Next, cut each slice of bresaola in half. Lay half of a bresaola slice over the ricotta-covered cucumber strip. Gently roll up the cucumber and bresaola into a neat roll.
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Serve: Arrange the cucumber roll-ups on a platter, garnish with a sprig of fresh mint, and serve immediately for the freshest taste.
These refreshing cucumber roll-ups are a great appetizer for light gatherings, offering a burst of flavors with the creaminess of ricotta and the savory richness of bresaola. They’re easy to make, beautifully presented, and sure to impress your guests!
