What To Know
- Place the endives on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the ham is slightly browned and the cheese is melted.
- Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a sophisticated appetizer, this dish will leave a lasting impression on your palate.
- You can serve them on a platter with a dipping sauce of your choice.
Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with this exquisite ham wrapped endive recipe, an elegant and easy-to-make appetizer that will steal the show at any gathering. Let’s dive into the culinary artistry of this savory treat.
Ingredients:
- 1 head of Belgian endive
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced deli ham
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped walnuts
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Endive: Separate the endive leaves and rinse them thoroughly. Pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Wrap the Ham: Place a slice of ham on each endive leaf, ensuring it covers the leaf completely.
3. Sprinkle the Toppings: Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese, walnuts, and parsley evenly over the wrapped endives.
4. Drizzle with Olive Oil: Drizzle olive oil over the endives and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the endives on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the ham is slightly browned and the cheese is melted.
6. Serve: Remove the endives from the oven and serve immediately while warm.
Variations:
- Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses, such as Gruyere, Cheddar, or goat cheese.
- Nuts: Add a crunch with almonds, pecans, or pine nuts.
- Herbs: Enhance the flavor with fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil.
- Dipping Sauce: Serve with a dipping sauce of your choice, such as honey mustard, ranch dressing, or aioli.
Health Benefits:
Ham wrapped endive is not only delicious but also surprisingly nutritious:
- High in Fiber: Endive is rich in dietary fiber, which promotes digestive health and satiety.
- Good Source of Vitamins: Ham provides vitamins B12, B6, and niacin, essential for energy production and nervous system function.
- Low in Calories: This appetizer is relatively low in calories, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
Tips for Success:
- Choose Fresh Endive: Select endives with crisp, bright leaves and no signs of wilting.
- Slice the Ham Thinly: Thinly sliced ham will wrap around the endives easily and cook evenly.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the endives in the oven to prevent overcooking and burning.
- Serve Warm: Ham wrapped endives taste best when served warm and fresh out of the oven.
Conclusion:
This ham wrapped endive recipe is a culinary masterpiece that combines simple ingredients with exquisite flavors. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a sophisticated appetizer, this dish will leave a lasting impression on your palate.
FAQ:
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the endives and refrigerate them for up to 4 hours before baking.
Q: What can I substitute for ham?
A: You can use prosciutto, speck, or thinly sliced turkey as a substitute for ham.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Yes, you can use any type of cheese that melts well, such as Gruyere, Cheddar, or mozzarella.
Q: How do I keep the endives from becoming soggy?
A: Pat the endive leaves dry before wrapping them and drizzle them with olive oil to prevent sogginess.
Q: What is the best way to serve ham wrapped endives?
A: You can serve them on a platter with a dipping sauce of your choice.
