Savory Speck and Cheese Pinwheels

Savory speck and cheese pinwheels are a delicious and easy-to-prepare appetizer, perfect for an aperitivo or buffet.

Ingredients

• 1 roll of rectangular puff pastry
• 100 g thinly sliced speck
• 100 g soft spreadable cheese (such as stracchino or cream cheese)
• 50 g Parmesan or grated Parmesan
• To taste chopped chives (optional)
• 1 egg (for brushing)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 200 °C.
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a work surface and evenly spread the soft cheese over the entire surface.
3. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the soft cheese and add chopped chives if using. Lightly season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Arrange the speck over the cheese to cover the entire surface.
5. Begin rolling the puff pastry from the long side, taking care to keep the roll compact.
6. Once you have a tight roll, wrap it in plastic wrap and let it rest in the refrigerator for about 15-30 minutes; this step will make it easier to slice the pinwheels.
7. Remove the plastic wrap and cut the roll into slices about 2 cm thick.
8. Arrange the pinwheels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between each one.
9. Beat the egg and gently brush the surface of the pinwheels.
10. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the pinwheels are golden and crispy.
11. Let the pinwheels cool slightly before serving.

Trivia

Savory pinwheels are a versatile idea that lends itself to many variations: you can experiment with different types of cured meats and cheeses, or add finely chopped vegetables such as spinach or peppers for a touch of freshness. In Italy, it is common to find versions of this appetizer with cooked or raw ham and a generous dusting of Parmesan. Experiment and find your favorite combination!