A Quick Fig Appetizer: Ham and Fig Strudel

Ham and Fig Strudel: make an easy ham and fig appetizer with a crispy puff pastry for a delightful blend of savory and sweet flavors.

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Have you ever experienced the delightful combination of ham and figs? If not, prepare for an amazing culinary adventure. This quick and easy Ham and Fig Strudel appetizer will impress your guests. By utilizing ready-made puff pastry, you can create a gourmet-quality dish in minutes. The crispy, flaky exterior gives way to a savory-sweet filling that perfectly balances the saltiness of Parma ham with the natural sweetness of fresh figs. A sprinkle of Parmesan adds a nutty depth, elevating this simple appetizer to new heights. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or seeking a quick family meal, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire.

An Easy Appetizer: Ham and Fig Strudel

A Perfect Blend of Flavors

Ham and fig strudel is a delightful appetizer that combines savory and sweet flavors in a crispy, flaky package. This elegant dish features thinly sliced Parma or San Daniele ham paired with ripe, luscious figs, all wrapped in golden puff pastry. The addition of grated Parmesan cheese adds a nutty, salty dimension that perfectly complements the other ingredients.

Quick and Simple Preparation

One of the best aspects of this appetizer is its ease of preparation. Using store-bought puff pastry significantly reduces prep time, making it an ideal choice for busy hosts or last-minute gatherings. The assembly process is straightforward: simply layer the ham and figs on the pastry, sprinkle with Parmesan, and roll it up. A quick brush of beaten egg ensures a beautifully golden crust when baked.

Versatile Serving Options

This ham and fig strudel is incredibly versatile. Serve it warm as an elegant starter for a dinner party, or at room temperature for a casual brunch. Cut into smaller pieces, it makes for perfect finger food at cocktail parties or holiday gatherings. Its combination of sophisticated flavors and rustic presentation is sure to impress guests while satisfying diverse palates.

How to Make a Quick and Delicious Ham and Fig Strudel

Creating this mouthwatering appetizer is simpler than you might think. With just a few ingredients and some easy steps, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dish in no time.

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering your ingredients:

• 1 roll of rectangular puff pastry, 230 g (about 8 oz) – Ensure your puff pastry is thawed if frozen.
• 6–8 slices of Parma ham or San Daniele ham
• 5–6 figs
• Grated Parmesan
• 1 egg

Assemble the Strudel

Carefully unroll the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Layer the ham slices evenly across the pastry, leaving a small border around the edges (1). Slice the figs thinly and arrange them over the ham (2). Sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan for an extra flavor boost.

Roll and Bake

Fold the longer edges of the puff pastry rectangle inwards (3). Gently roll the pastry into a single roll (4) and place on a baking sheet lined with baking paper, roll seam side down. Brush the top with beaten egg for a golden finish (5).

Bake for 20–25 minutes in your preheated oven at 190°C (375°F), until the pastry is puffed and golden brown (6). Let it cool completely before slicing (7) and serving your delectable ham and fig strudel.

Variations and Tips for the Best Ham and Fig Strudel

Experiment with Cheese Varieties

While Parmesan adds a delightful savory note, don’t hesitate to explore other cheese options. Gorgonzola pairs exceptionally well with figs, offering a tangy contrast. Alternatively, try crumbled goat cheese for a creamy texture that complements the ham’s saltiness.

Perfect Your Puff Pastry

For the crispiest results, ensure your puff pastry is cold when you start working with it. If it becomes too warm, return it to the refrigerator for a few minutes. Brush the pastry with egg wash before baking to achieve a golden, glossy finish that will make your strudel irresistible.

Balance Sweet and Savory

While figs provide a natural sweetness, consider drizzling a small amount of honey over the prosciutto before rolling the strudel. Try adding a few pieces of chopped walnuts as well. This extra touch enhances the flavor profile, creating a perfect balance between sweet and salty notes and a soft and crunchy texture that will make this appetizer truly unforgettable.

Fig and Ham Strudel Storage Instructions

If you plan to store the strudel for 1–2 days, keep it in a cool, dry area at room temperature while ensuring it is covered to prevent drying out. For storage periods of 3–5 days, it is recommended to refrigerate the strudel in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic or foil. Extend the storage time to 1–2 months by securely wrapping the strudel in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing. When ready to enjoy the stored strudel, reheat it in a 180°C (350°F) oven for 10–15 minutes to restore its crispness.