How many servings does this recipe make?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

What ingredients do I need for Charred Spanish Ham and Cheese Melts and "Hot" Olives with Herbs and Spices?

You need 11 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 8 slices crusty bread from a good-sized loaf, 1/2-inch thick, at least 5 inches across and 3 inches wide, 1/3 pound thinly slices serrano ham, 1/3 to 1/2 pound manchego, thinly sliced with sharp knife or cheese plane, 1 cup hot pickled vegetable salad of cauliflower, carrots, celery and hot peppers (giardiniera) drained,, and more.

Charred Spanish Ham and Cheese Melts and "Hot" Oliv

Name: Charred Spanish Ham and Cheese Melts and "Hot" Olives with Herbs and Spices
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 slices crusty bread from a good-sized loaf, 1/2-inch thick, at least 5 inches across and 3 inches wide; 1/3 pound thinly slices serrano ham; 1/3 to 1/2 pound manchego, thinly sliced with sharp knife or cheese plane; 1 cup hot pickled vegetable salad of cauliflower, carrots, celery and hot peppers (giardiniera) drained,; 1/2 cup sweet pickled red pepper relish or sweet pickle relish; 2 cups mixed good quality olives; 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 1 teaspoon cumin seeds; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling

Try this homemade Charred Spanish Ham and Cheese Melts and "Hot" Olives with Herbs and Spices recipe the whole family will love. Made with crusty bread,…

This Charred Spanish Ham and Cheese Melts and "Hot" Olives with Herbs and Spices relies on simple, everyday ingredients such as thinly slices serrano ham, mixed good quality olives, lemon zest and cumin seeds. It comes together quickly and makes 4 servings, at about 133 kcal each. The step-by-step instructions below are written to be easy to follow, even on a busy day.

It's versatile enough for an easy weeknight dinner yet satisfying enough for guests at the weekend. Serve it with your favorite sides, and keep any leftovers for a quick meal the next day.

Updated Jun 30, 2026

Serves 4 General

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Feel free to swap in similar ingredients you already have on hand and adjust seasoning to taste.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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Charred Spanish Ham and Cheese Melts and "Hot" Olives with Herbs and Spices

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

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