Rich Sandwiches: Ham Cheese Arugula. Hello everyone! Today we’re making sandwiches together, the dinner-saving (and fridge space-saving!) solution that has saved me countless quick dinners.
You know those days when you come home, open the fridge, and think there’s nothing ready? Well, that’s exactly how the idea for these sandwiches was born: I had some delicious leftovers and decided to turn them into something special.
They’re absolutely perfect if you’re organizing a quick aperitif at home: just cut them into smaller squares to turn them into a delightful finger food that will disappear in a second during conversations!
They’re not the usual sad and dry sandwiches, I promise. The secret is the combination of the firm texture of diced provola and the softness of mayonnaise, which together with the crunchy touch of pickles create a unique mix.
It’s the classic “smart” recipe that I prepare when I want to indulge a little or when a friend drops by at the last minute for an informal toast.
Why do I love them?
They taste like home: they’re rich and hearty, just the way I like them.
The perfect contrast: the sweetness of the ham and the character of the provola blend perfectly with the fresh note of arugula and the freshness of pickles and artichokes.
The resting trick: I’ll share a little secret with you… to make them just like the ones at the bar, you need to wrap them well and let them rest. This way the bread becomes super soft and the filling doesn’t slip out everywhere!
OTHER RECIPES FOR AN APPETIZER OR APERITIF:
- Difficulty: Very Easy
- Cost: Economical
- Rest time: 40 Minutes
- Preparation time: 20 Minutes
- Portions: 10 sandwiches
- Cooking methods: No cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Seasonality: All seasons
Ingredients for Rich Sandwiches: Ham Cheese Arugula
- 1 package sandwich bread
- 1 package cooked ham (or raw ham)
- 1 package slices of cheese
- 150 g smoked provola cheese (diced)
- 1 jar mayonnaise
- 1 jar pickled vegetables
- to taste green olives (for decoration)
- 1 package arugula
- 1 jar artichokes (in oil)
Tools for Rich Sandwiches: Ham Cheese Arugula
- Cutting Board
- Knife
Steps for Rich Sandwiches: Ham Cheese Arugula
Take the sweet or smoked provola and cut it into tiny cubes (almost minced).
In a small bowl, mix the cheese cubes with two generous tablespoons of mayonnaise. This emulsion will act as a natural “glue,” preventing the cubes from falling out once cut. If you want an extra touch of color, you can add a sprinkle of sweet paprika to the provola and mayonnaise mix: it will give an exceptional aroma and a very inviting pink hue!
Bread Preparation: take the long white bread slices. Spread an even layer of mayonnaise (or cream cheese, if you prefer) across the entire surface of the slices. This step is crucial to prevent the moisture of the ingredients from ruining the bread or making it too dry.
Layered Filling: lay the slices of cooked ham or, if you prefer, raw ham over the bread, trying not to let them hang out over the edges. For a “rich” effect, create slight ripples with the slice instead of laying it flat, or you can also, with scissors, cut off any overhanging parts and use them for another layer.
Drain the artichokes well from the oil, then finely chop them with a knife, and drain the pickles from their preserving liquid. Generously spread the provola and mayonnaise mix over one of the slices, reaching all the way to the edges. Add the pickles and artichokes. Complete with fresh arugula, ensuring it is well dried.
Cover with the second slice of bread and gently press with the palm of your hand to even out the thickness.
Rest in Refrigerator: wrap the sandwiches in plastic wrap and let them rest in the fridge for at least 30-40 minutes. This step is essential: the mayonnaise solidifies slightly and “locks” the pieces of artichokes and pickles inside.
Cutting: use a very sharp, smooth-edge knife. Cut the long slices into squares and then cut diagonally to get the classic triangles.
Secure each triangle with a toothpick and place a green olive on top of each one.
“And how do you fill your sandwiches? Do you prefer classic soft flavors or do you like to dare with a rich mix like mine? Let me know in the comments below!”
If you like, follow me on Facebook by clicking The Recipe Book of Housewives and give it a like. I’ll be waiting, Ivana.
You can also find me on Instagram and on Pinterest.
If you liked this recipe, click the stars you find below; to give the maximum, click directly on the last star. Your evaluation is very important to me. Thank you.
Return to the HOME to read all the other recipes.
