Ham roll ups are quick and tasty snacks! Just take slices of ham, spread some cream cheese on them, and roll them up tight. You can even add pickles or veggies for extra crunch!
I love making these for parties because they disappear fast! They’re like little bites of joy that are super easy to prepare. Perfect for when friends drop by or for a fun movie night! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ham: Thinly sliced deli ham is great for roll ups. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey or chicken slices work well too. Vegetarian? Try using roasted bell peppers or cucumber slices!
Cream Cheese: This provides creaminess and helps hold the roll ups together. Neufchâtel or yogurt-based cream cheese can be good lower fat alternatives. Even dairy-free cream cheese can work if you’re avoiding dairy!
Dill Pickles: Dill pickles add crunch and tang. If you want a milder flavor, you can use sweet pickles or omit them altogether. You could also try other pickled veggies like jalapeños for a kick!
Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of parsley adds color and a hint of freshness. If you don’t have parsley, chives or cilantro would also make a great garnish!
How Do You Roll Up Ham Like a Pro?
Rolling ham slices tightly is key to making these delicious roll ups! Here are some simple tips:
- Start with a clean, flat surface so the ham doesn’t tear as you roll.
- Use a thin layer of cream cheese to avoid excess gooiness. Spread it evenly with a knife.
- Position the pickle at the end closest to you, allowing space at the sides for neat rolling.
- Roll tightly, but not so tight that the filling spills out. Focus on keeping it compact!
- For a fancy touch, you can slice the roll ups into bite-sized pieces after rolling. This makes them great for sharing!
These tips will help you create perfect ham roll ups every time, making them perfect for parties or quick snacks. Enjoy the simplicity and taste!
Ham Roll Ups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 10 slices of ham (thinly sliced, deli-style)
- 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
- 10 dill pickle spears or sliced pickles (about 1 pickle)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Black pepper, freshly ground (to taste)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick and easy option for a snack or appetizer, perfect for when you need something tasty in a hurry!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ham Slices:
Start by laying the ham slices flat on a clean surface or cutting board. Make sure they’re not overlapping, so you can spread the cream cheese evenly.
2. Spread the Cream Cheese:
Using a butter knife or a small spatula, spread a thin layer of softened cream cheese evenly over each slice of ham. Don’t worry about being perfect; just cover the surface well!
3. Add the Pickles:
Next, place one dill pickle spear (or a few pickle slices) near one end of each ham slice. This will be the center of your roll, so make sure it’s positioned nicely!
4. Roll It Up!
Carefully roll each ham slice up tightly around the pickle and cream cheese. Make sure it’s snug but not too tight to avoid squeezing out the filling. Aim for a neat roll that holds together nicely.
5. Arrange on a Platter:
Once all the ham slices are rolled up, arrange them on a serving platter or wooden board. You can place them seam side down to help them stay rolled.
6. Season and Garnish:
Lightly sprinkle freshly ground black pepper over the top of the ham roll ups for a little extra flavor. Then, add some chopped fresh parsley as a garnish for a pop of color!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the ham roll ups immediately as a cold appetizer or snack. If you’d like, you can chill them in the fridge for a short time before serving to make them even more refreshing!
These ham roll ups are a fantastic mix of salty, creamy, and tangy flavors, with a satisfying crunch from the pickles. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! While ham is the classic choice, you can use turkey, roast beef, or even chicken slices as alternatives. For a vegetarian version, consider using roasted vegetables or slices of cucumber!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover ham roll ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to 2 days. Just remember to enjoy them cold for the best taste!
Can I Add Other Fillings?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with fillings. You could add shredded cheese, sliced olives, or even a bit of mustard for extra flavor. Just keep the ingredients thin so they roll easily!
What Can I Serve with Ham Roll Ups?
Ham roll ups are great on their own, but you can serve them with toothpicks for easy snacking or alongside a dipping sauce like ranch or mustard. They also pair well with a fresh salad or veggie platter!
