The savory bread zuccotto, a no-cook appetizer, is an elegant culinary creation that combines the simplicity of sandwich bread with the rich and tasty flavors of savory fillings. An enveloping layer of sandwich bread, skillfully shaped, encloses a delicious heart of savory ingredients. The result is a dish that marries the softness of the bread with a variety of flavors in every bite. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, this zuccotto is a versatile option that stands out for its appealing presentation and balanced taste. A refined addition to your table, ready to surprise with its simple yet irresistible goodness.
- Difficulty: Very easy
- Cost: Medium
- Rest time: 3 Hours
- Preparation time: 15 Minutes
- Portions: 6
- Cooking methods: No cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Seasonality: All seasons
Ingredients for the savory bread zuccotto
- 8.8 oz sandwich bread
- 3.5 oz smoked salmon
- 5.3 oz shrimp
- 1.8 oz mayonnaise
- 0.5 oz ketchup
- 5.3 oz Russian salad
- 5.3 oz capricciosa salad
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 5.3 oz cream cheese
- 1.4 oz lamb's lettuce (mache)
Tools for preparing the savory zuccotto
- Bowl
- Plastic wrap
- Spoon
- Knife
- Pan
- Cutting board
- Rolling pin
How to make the savory zuccotto
To prepare the savory zuccotto with sandwich bread as a no-cook appetizer, first deal with the shrimp. If using fresh shrimp, remove the head, shell, and vein, wash them thoroughly, and sauté them in a pan with oil and salt. If using frozen shrimp, sauté them in a pan with oil and salt. If using brined shrimp, wash them thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels. Prepare the cocktail sauce as explained here and add the shrimp. Set aside.
Line a 9-inch diameter bowl with plastic wrap, flatten the sandwich bread with a rolling pin, and line the bottom and sides of the bowl.
Place the capricciosa salad at the bottom, flatten another slice of sandwich bread, cover the capricciosa salad, and press with your hands to compact.
Make another layer with smoked salmon and Russian salad, then cover with sandwich bread again.
Now it’s time for the shrimp cocktail. Cover the entire surface and top with more sandwich bread. Press with your hands and seal with the plastic wrap. Let it rest in the fridge for at least 3 hours.
Remove from the fridge, unmold onto a cutting board, and with a knife or spatula, spread cream cheese over all surfaces and decorate with mache or other fresh herbs. Enjoy your meal!
Storing the Savory Zuccotto
The savory zuccotto can be stored in the fridge for 2 days, although over time the outer surface will tend to dry out.
FAQ (Questions and Answers)
Can it be frozen?
Yes, but I don’t recommend it.
Can it be prepared in advance?
Yes, even the day before, although I recommend spreading the cheese on the surface at the last minute.
Can the filling be varied?
Of course, you can create endless combinations using what you have at home or based on your tastes, for example, use tuna, canned salmon, mackerel, swordfish, etc.
