Bresaola and Spinach Rolls

Bresaola and spinach rolls are a tasty and simple appetizer to make. Here is the recipe:

Ingredients

  • 100 g bresaola (thinly sliced)
  • 200 g fresh spinach
  • 1/2 lemon (juice only)
  • 100 g ricotta or spreadable cheese (such as goat cheese or robiola)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Extra-virgin olive oil
  • Walnuts or pine nuts (optional)
  • Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)

Preparation

  1. Start by washing the spinach under running water. Then cook it in a pan with a drizzle of oil and a pinch of salt until wilted. Alternatively, you can briefly blanch it in salted water for a couple of minutes and then squeeze out the excess liquid.

  2. Once cooked, let the spinach cool and roughly chop it with a knife.

  3. In a bowl, combine the spinach with the ricotta or chosen spreadable cheese, add the lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add chopped walnuts or pine nuts for extra crunch in the filling.

  4. Lay the bresaola slices on a work surface and spread a spoonful of the prepared filling on each one.

  5. Gently roll up the bresaola slices to form rolls. If needed, secure them with a toothpick.

  6. Arrange the rolls on a serving plate and, if you like, finish with shavings of Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil.

  7. The rolls are ready to serve. You can enjoy them immediately or store them in the refrigerator until serving time.

Interesting Facts

Bresaola is a cured meat typical of Valtellina, an alpine area in Lombardy, famous for its tender texture and delicate flavor. It is also a very lean, high-protein food often used in low-calorie diets. Paired with spinach, rich in iron and vitamins, and cheese, it creates an excellent combination of flavors and nutrition.