ham-cheese-appetizer-parcels
Cuisine
American
Servings
8 Persons
Prep Time
20 Minutes
Difficulty
Beginner Level
Elegant ham and cheese appetizer parcels filled with creamy cheese salad, fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and dill—perfect for parties and gatherings.
Tags: ham appetizer, cheese appetizer, party appetizers, cold appetizers, easy appetizers, holiday appetizers, finger foods
Categories: SNACKS
Ingredients
- 8 thin slices turkey ham
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup finely chopped green onion
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 8–10 curly lettuce leaves
- 2 medium tomatoes, cut into wedges
- Fresh dill, for garnish
- Food-safe kitchen twine, for tying
Cooking Instructions
- 01
Make the filling: In a bowl, combine cream cheese, mozzarella, green onion, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until creamy and well combined.
- 02
Prepare the ham: Lay each turkey ham slice flat on a clean surface.
- 03
Add the filling: Spoon a portion of the creamy cheese mixture into the center of each slice.
- 04
Shape the parcels: Fold the ham around the filling to create a small triangular or pouch-like parcel.
- 05
Tie securely: Gently wrap each parcel with food-safe kitchen twine and finish with a small bow.
- 06
Arrange the platter: Place curly lettuce leaves on a large serving platter. Arrange the ham parcels over the lettuce.
- 07
Garnish: Add fresh tomato wedges and sprigs of dill around the parcels.
- 08
Chill and serve: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Remove the twine before eating.
Chef notes
- Use thin, flexible ham slices so they fold neatly without tearing. - Chill the creamy cheese filling before assembling to make the parcels easier to shape. - Don’t overfill the ham; a smaller amount keeps the parcels neat and secure. - Tie each parcel gently with food-safe kitchen twine so the ham stays in place. - Prepare the parcels a few hours ahead and refrigerate until serving. - Add the lettuce, tomato wedges, and fresh dill just before serving for the freshest presentation. - For an elegant finish, sprinkle a small amount of freshly cracked pepper or paprika around the platter.