Ham and Swiss Swirls are a delightful snack or appetizer that combine flaky puff pastry with savory ham and creamy Swiss cheese. They're quick to prepare and perfect for any gathering, bringing a touch of elegance and a lot of flavor to your table.
Puff pastry is the star here, providing a light and flaky base that crisps up beautifully in the oven. Ham offers a savory, salty contrast to the mild, nutty flavor of Swiss cheese. Dijon mustard adds a subtle tangy kick, enhancing the overall flavor profile without overpowering the other ingredients. Finally, a beaten egg gives the swirls a glossy, golden finish.
These Ham and Swiss Swirls are perfect as part of a brunch spread, alongside a fresh green salad, or served with a tangy pickle on the side for an extra burst of flavor. For a more substantial meal, pair them with a warm bowl of tomato soup.
First, preheat your oven to 400°F to get it ready for baking. Unroll your sheet of puff pastry onto a lightly floured surface. Don't worry if it seems a bit stiff at first; it'll become more pliable as it warms slightly. Using a small spatula or the back of a spoon, spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard over the entire surface of the pastry. This will act as the flavorful glue for your ham and cheese.
Next, layer the ham slices evenly over the mustard-covered pastry. Try to cover as much of the surface as you can without overlapping the slices too much. Follow up with the Swiss cheese slices, placing them neatly on top of the ham. Now comes the fun part: starting from one edge, roll the pastry tightly into a log. Take your time here to ensure a firm roll, which will help the swirls hold their shape when sliced.
With a sharp knife, slice the rolled log into 1-inch thick rounds. You should end up with nicely defined pinwheels. Lay these rounds onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, giving them a little space to expand as they bake. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for that beautiful, glossy finish. Pop the sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the swirls are puffed and golden brown.