Unmexican Haystack
A creamy, savory layered appetizer with ham, green onions, and pecans, perfect for parties and gatherings, offering a delightful blend of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- With an electric mixer, blend the first five ingredients till smooth.
- Chop ham and green onions very fine with a food chopper or food processor, then mix into the cream cheese mixture till blended well.
- Place a tortilla on a plate, and with a rubber spatula, spread a thin layer of the cream cheese/ham mixture on the tortilla.
- Layer tortillas and the cream cheese mixture, ending with the cream cheese layer on top, and sprinkle with pecans.
- Refrigerate for a couple of hours before serving. Best if prepared the night before to allow flavors to blend.
- Cut into squares and insert party toothpicks into each square for serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on flavor, consider adding chopped bell peppers or jalapeños to the cream cheese mixture. If you're short on time, pre-cooked deli ham can be used instead of whole ham. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter option. Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened for easy blending, and use fresh green onions for the best taste.
Serving Suggestions
These Unmexican Haystacks are perfect as a party appetizer or snack. Serve them alongside a fresh salad or a platter of assorted vegetables for a balanced meal. They pair beautifully with Marion's Spinach Casserole for a delightful spread. Consider including a dipping sauce, like ranch or a spicy salsa, to enhance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, you can warm individual squares in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, but they're also delicious served cold. For best results, enjoy within a couple of days to maintain the texture of the tortillas.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Unmexican Haystack contains roughly 2872 calories, with 27g protein, 105g carbohydrates, and 273g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (65% of the Daily Value), iron (58% of the Daily Value), and protein (54% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1627mg per serving (71% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, it's best to prepare the Unmexican Haystacks the night before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. They will be even more delicious after a night in the fridge!
What can I substitute for ham?
If you're looking for a substitute for ham, consider using turkey or chicken breast for a leaner option. Vegetarian alternatives could include finely chopped mushrooms or a mix of beans. Just be sure to adjust seasonings to complement the different flavors.
Can I freeze these haystacks?
Freezing is not recommended as it can affect the texture of the cream cheese and tortillas. However, if you need to store them longer, you can freeze the cream cheese mixture separately and assemble fresh when ready to serve. Just ensure it's well sealed to prevent freezer burn.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).