Name: Zucchini Ham Cheese Pastry Roses
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 320 g puff pastry, thawed if frozen, cut into 12 strips; 2 medium zucchini, about 400 g total, sliced paper-thin lengthwise; 180 g thinly sliced cooked ham, good quality for best flavor; 150 g shredded mozzarella, whole milk mozzarella works best; 60 g cream cheese, softened to room temperature; 20 g grated Parmesan, freshly grated if possible; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/4 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste; 1 beaten egg, for egg wash; 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley, optional garnish

Description

These elegant pastry roses feature layers of tender zucchini, savory ham, and a creamy blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese wrapped in buttery puff pastry, baked until golden and perfectly puffed. Perfect for entertaining, special occasions, or meal prep, they deliver restaurant-quality presentation with simple ingredients and straightforward preparation.

Ingredients

Scale

320 g puff pastry, thawed if frozen, cut into 12 strips
2 medium zucchini, about 400 g total, sliced paper-thin lengthwise
180 g thinly sliced cooked ham, good quality for best flavor
150 g shredded mozzarella, whole milk mozzarella works best
60 g cream cheese, softened to room temperature
20 g grated Parmesan, freshly grated if possible
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
1 beaten egg, for egg wash
1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley, optional garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Slice the Zucchini: Using a mandoline slicer or vegetable peeler, cut the zucchini lengthwise into thin, even strips about 1/8 inch thick to ensure they bend without breaking.
Salt and Rest: Lay zucchini strips on paper towels, sprinkle lightly with salt, and let sit for 10 minutes to release excess moisture. Pat dry with fresh paper towels before using.
Blanch Briefly: In a pot of boiling water, blanch the zucchini strips for 1 to 2 minutes until just pliable. Transfer to ice water, then pat dry thoroughly to prevent sogginess.
Mix Cheeses: In a small bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, oregano, and salt. Stir until smooth and well combined, about 1 minute.
Taste and Adjust: Sample the filling and adjust seasoning as needed for savory, aromatic flavor.
Layer the Pastry Strip: Place one puff pastry strip on clean work surface. Spread a thin layer of cheese filling along the length, leaving small borders at edges.
Add Ham and Zucchini: Layer a slice of ham over the cheese, then top with one zucchini strip. Repeat with one more ham slice and zucchini strip on top.
Roll Into a Rose: Starting from one end, roll the layered strip tightly into a coil creating a spiral. Tuck the loose end underneath and place seam-side down on parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat with remaining pastry strips.
Brush and Bake: Brush each rose with beaten egg wash and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25 to 30 minutes until pastry is golden brown and puffed, with melted filling inside.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes