Appetizer > Spanish Appetizers > Tapas

Serrano Ham and Manchego Cheese Montadito Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2 inch rounds
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 4 oz. Serrano ham, thinly sliced
- 4 oz. Manchego cheese, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp. honey
- 1 tbsp. sherry vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish

Special equipment needed:
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowl

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.

2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil and minced garlic.

3. Brush the baguette slices with the garlic oil and place them on a baking sheet.

4. Bake the baguette slices for 8-10 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.

5. While the baguette slices are baking, prepare the toppings. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey and sherry vinegar.

6. Layer the Serrano ham and Manchego cheese on top of the baguette slices.

7. Drizzle the honey and sherry vinegar mixture over the top of the ham and cheese.

8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

9. Garnish with fresh parsley.


Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 8-10 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
Makes 12 montaditos

Nutritional information:
Calories: 185
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 25mg
Sodium: 300mg
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 8g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Prosciutto can be substituted for Serrano ham.
- Gouda cheese can be substituted for Manchego cheese.

Variations:
- Add sliced figs or pear for a sweet and savory twist.
- Top with a fried egg for a breakfast montadito.
- Substitute the honey and sherry vinegar mixture with balsamic glaze for a tangy flavor.

Tips and tricks:
- Use a serrated knife to slice the baguette for even slices.
- Make sure the cheese and ham are thinly sliced for easy layering.
- Toast the baguette slices in advance and store them in an airtight container for easy assembly later.

Storage instructions:
Store any leftover montaditos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheating instructions:
Reheat the montaditos in the oven at 375°F for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
Arrange the montaditos on a platter and garnish with fresh parsley.

Garnishes:
Fresh parsley

Pairings:
- Serve with a glass of Spanish red wine.
- Pair with a side of olives or marinated vegetables.

Suggested side dishes:
- Spanish tortilla
- Gazpacho soup
- Patatas bravas

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the baguette slices are not crispy enough, bake them for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- If the cheese is not melting, place the montaditos under the broiler for 1-2 minutes.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to store any leftover montaditos in the refrigerator.
- Use caution when handling the hot baking sheet and baguette slices.

Food history:
Montaditos are a traditional Spanish tapa, typically served as an appetizer or snack.

Flavor profiles:
Salty, savory, and slightly sweet.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the montaditos as an appetizer or snack at a party or gathering.

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Region: Spanish

Taste: Savory, Salty, Tangy, Rich, Nutty