olive and ham cake

Olive and Ham Cake – a Savory and Surprising Recipe

Who said cake has to always be sweet? This delicious olive and ham cake recipe will change your perspective on this classic dish. Perfect for a hearty snack, a brunch meal, or a party, this savory cake will win you over with every slice. Plus, it's a simple and quick recipe, ideal for days when you want to impress without much effort.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 8

Ingredients:
- 4 fresh eggs
- 1.5 dl of dry white wine (you can opt for a quality wine, as it will influence the final flavor)
- 250 g of flour
- 2 dl of extra virgin olive oil (for a more intense taste)
- 1 packet of yeast (or 7 g)
- 150 g of grated Parmesan cheese (aged cheese provides a unique flavor)
- 200 g of pitted green olives (preferably, the olive oil should be of good quality)
- 200 g of smoked ham (choose a variant with a rich taste that complements the olives)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients on a clean countertop. Make sure the eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation into the mixture. Cut the ham into small cubes and the olives into quarters, so you can enjoy a uniform texture in each slice.

2. The base mixture: In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the white wine. Use a whisk or mixer to achieve a smooth mixture. Gradually add the flour, mixing constantly to avoid lumps. It's important to achieve a fine and impurity-free paste.

3. The oil and yeast: Continue by incorporating the olive oil little by little. This technique will help emulsify the mixture and achieve a light texture in the cake. Add the yeast and mix well, ensuring it is evenly distributed.

4. The Parmesan and savory ingredients: Incorporate the grated Parmesan, which will provide not only flavor but also a pleasant texture. Then, add the olives and ham cubes, gently mixing with a spatula to distribute them evenly in the mixture.

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 200 °C. Grease a cake pan with a little olive oil or use parchment paper to prevent sticking. Pour the mixture into the pan and level the surface with a spatula. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 45 minutes or until the cake turns golden and a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.

6. Cooling and serving: Once the cake is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer it to a rack to cool completely. It can be served warm or at room temperature, sliced.

Helpful tip: Serve the cake with a fresh salad or alongside a garlic yogurt dip for a delicious contrast. You can also pair this dish with a glass of white wine or a fresh lemonade to complete the culinary experience.

Nutritional benefits:
This olive and ham cake is not only delicious but also nutritious. The eggs provide high-quality protein, while the olive oil is rich in healthy fats. Olives are an excellent source of antioxidants, and Parmesan adds calcium and essential vitamins. Although it's a savory recipe, moderate portions will provide you with the necessary energy without feeling too heavy.

Possible variations:
- You can replace the ham with crispy bacon or a vegetarian option, such as smoked tofu or sautéed vegetables.
- Instead of green olives, experiment with black olives or even diced bell peppers for a more vibrant flavor.
- Add fresh herbs, such as dill or basil, for an extra fresh touch.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes, but it will slightly change the texture and taste of the cake, making it denser.
2. How can I keep the cake fresh longer? You can store it in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge, and for a longer duration, you can freeze it.
3. Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians? If you replace the ham with a vegetarian ingredient, yes, it becomes an excellent option!

In conclusion, the olive and ham cake is a versatile and flavorful choice, perfect for any occasion. Dare to try it and share this recipe with friends and family. It will surely become a favorite in your kitchen!

 Ingredients: 4 eggs, 1.5 dl of dry white wine, 250g of flour, 2 dl of olive oil, 1 packet of yeast, 150g of Parmesan cheese, 200g of pitted green olives, 200g of smoked ham