The savory mimosa log with egg and ham is a refined and delicious appetizer that brings a touch of elegance to any table. Inspired by the classic mimosa salad, this dish transforms familiar ingredients—eggs, ham, mayonnaise, and cheese—into a beautifully rolled log that’s creamy, flavorful, and visually stunning. It’s perfect for festive occasions, brunches, or family gatherings, offering a balance of textures and flavors that delight both the eyes and the palate.
The Essence of the Savory Mimosa Log
This dish takes its name from the traditional mimosa salad, known for its layers of grated egg, mayonnaise, and savory fillings. The “mimosa” refers to the grated egg yolk that resembles the bright yellow mimosa flower. In this version, the concept is reimagined as a roulade or log, where the ingredients are rolled together to create a soft, creamy, and flavorful appetizer that can be sliced into elegant portions.
The combination of tender eggs, smoky ham, creamy mayonnaise, and mild cheese creates a harmonious blend of flavors. Each bite offers a perfect balance of richness and freshness, making it a versatile dish that can be served cold or slightly chilled.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
The key to a perfect savory mimosa log lies in the quality and balance of its ingredients.
Eggs
Use fresh, large eggs for the best texture and flavor. They form the base of the log, providing structure and richness.
Ham
Choose thinly sliced cooked ham or smoked ham for a delicate, savory flavor. The ham adds saltiness and depth, complementing the creamy filling.
Cheese
Grated cheese, such as Swiss, mozzarella, or mild cheddar, adds creaminess and helps bind the ingredients together.
Mayonnaise
Mayonnaise provides the creamy texture that defines the mimosa flavor. For a lighter version, you can mix it with Greek yogurt or sour cream.
Seasonings and Garnish
A touch of mustard, lemon juice, or herbs like dill or parsley can enhance the flavor. Garnish with grated egg yolk, herbs, or finely chopped vegetables for a decorative finish.
Ingredients for 6–8 Servings
- 6 large eggs
- 200 g (7 oz) thinly sliced ham
- 100 g (3.5 oz) grated cheese (Swiss, mozzarella, or cheddar)
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh dill or parsley for garnish
Preparing the Egg Base
- Boil the eggs: Place the eggs in a saucepan, cover with cold water, and bring to a boil. Once boiling, cook for 10 minutes. Transfer the eggs to cold water to cool completely.
- Separate the yolks and whites: Peel the eggs and separate the yolks from the whites. Grate both finely using a box grater or food processor. Keep the yolks and whites in separate bowls.
Making the Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the grated egg whites, mayonnaise, sour cream (if using), mustard, and half of the grated cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The mixture should be spreadable but not too runny.
Assembling the Mimosa Log
- Prepare the base: Lay a large piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper on a flat surface. Spread the grated egg whites mixture evenly into a rectangle about 25 x 30 cm (10 x 12 inches). Press gently to compact it slightly.
- Add the ham layer: Arrange the ham slices evenly over the egg mixture, slightly overlapping to cover the surface completely.
- Add the cheese: Sprinkle the remaining grated cheese evenly over the ham.
- Roll the log: Using the plastic wrap to help, carefully roll the layers into a tight log, starting from one of the shorter sides. Roll gently but firmly to keep the shape intact. Wrap the log tightly in the plastic wrap and twist the ends to seal.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible, to allow the flavors to meld and the log to firm up.
Decorating the Log
Once chilled, unwrap the log and place it on a serving platter. Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise over the surface for a smooth finish. Grate the reserved egg yolks over the top to create the signature “mimosa” look. Garnish with fresh dill, parsley, or finely chopped chives for color and freshness.
Serving the Savory Mimosa Log
Slice the log into 1–2 cm (½–¾ inch) thick rounds using a sharp knife. Wipe the knife clean between cuts for neat slices. Serve the slices on a platter, garnished with herbs or lemon wedges.
This dish can be served as an appetizer, part of a buffet, or even as a light lunch with salad and bread. It pairs beautifully with crisp white wine, sparkling water with lemon, or a light cocktail.
The Perfect Flavor Balance
The savory mimosa log is all about balance. The eggs provide richness, the ham adds saltiness, the cheese contributes creaminess, and the mayonnaise ties everything together. The result is a dish that’s indulgent yet refreshing, with a smooth texture and a delicate flavor that appeals to everyone.
Variations and Add-Ins
This recipe is highly adaptable and can be customized to suit different tastes:
- With vegetables: Add finely chopped bell peppers, cucumbers, or pickles for crunch and freshness.
- With fish: Replace ham with smoked salmon or tuna for a seafood version.
- With herbs: Add dill, parsley, or chives to the filling for extra aroma.
- With mustard: A touch of Dijon or whole-grain mustard adds a subtle tang.
- With cheese spread: Mix cream cheese into the filling for a richer texture.
Tips for Success
- Use cold ingredients: Cold eggs and ham make rolling easier and help maintain the log’s shape.
- Don’t overfill: Too much filling can cause the log to break when rolled.
- Chill thoroughly: Refrigerating the log allows it to firm up and makes slicing cleaner.
- Use sharp knives: A sharp knife ensures smooth, even slices without tearing.
- Serve chilled: This dish tastes best when served cold, as the flavors are more defined.
Presentation Ideas
Presentation is key for this elegant dish. Here are a few ways to make it stand out:
- Classic platter: Arrange the slices in a circular pattern on a white platter, garnished with herbs and lemon wedges.
- Individual servings: Place one or two slices on small plates with a few greens and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Buffet style: Serve the log whole on a decorative board with crackers, bread, and pickles.
- Festive touch: Decorate with edible flowers or microgreens for a holiday presentation.
Pairing Suggestions
The savory mimosa log pairs beautifully with light, crisp beverages that complement its creamy texture:
- Wine: A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay enhances the flavors.
- Cocktails: A mimosa or a light spritz works perfectly for brunch.
- Non-alcoholic: Sparkling water with lemon or cucumber slices keeps the palate refreshed.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 230 kcal
- Protein: 14 g
- Fat: 18 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
Storing and Serving Ahead
The savory mimosa log can be made up to 24 hours in advance, making it ideal for entertaining. Keep it tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Leftovers can be stored for up to 2 days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the eggs and mayonnaise can change.
The Flavor Experience
Every bite of this savory mimosa log offers a perfect combination of textures and flavors. The eggs are soft and delicate, the ham adds a savory note, and the mayonnaise and cheese create a creamy, cohesive filling. The grated yolk on top adds a touch of color and richness, making the dish as beautiful as it is delicious.
Making It for Special Occasions
This savory mimosa log is ideal for holidays, brunches, and celebrations. It’s elegant enough for Christmas or Easter, yet simple enough for a weekend gathering. Its make-ahead nature makes entertaining stress-free, allowing more time to enjoy with guests.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using warm ingredients: Warm eggs or ham can make the filling too soft and difficult to roll.
- Skipping the chilling step: The log won’t hold its shape without proper refrigeration.
- Over-seasoning: Ham and cheese are naturally salty, so season lightly.
- Cutting too soon: Let the log rest in the fridge to firm up before slicing.
A Dish for Every Occasion
The savory mimosa log with egg and ham is versatile enough for any occasion. It can be served as an appetizer, part of a brunch buffet, or even as a light lunch. Its elegant appearance and balanced flavors make it a favorite for both casual and formal gatherings.
The Joy of Homemade Elegance
There’s something special about creating a dish that looks as beautiful as it tastes. The savory mimosa log is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into something extraordinary. It’s a reminder that elegance in cooking doesn’t require complexity—just care, balance, and attention to detail.
Conclusion
The savory mimosa log with egg and ham is a celebration of flavor, texture, and presentation. It combines the creaminess of eggs and mayonnaise with the savory depth of ham and cheese, all rolled into a visually stunning log. Perfect for holidays, brunches, or special dinners, it’s a dish that impresses with both taste and appearance. With its harmonious blend of creamy, savory, and fresh elements, this mimosa log is more than just an appetizer—it’s a statement of refined simplicity and the joy of homemade sophistication.
