Prosciutto wrapped pears are a sweet and salty treat! Juicy pears are wrapped in thin, delicious prosciutto, making a perfect snack or starter for any gathering.
These bites are great for impressing guests without much fuss. I love serving them at parties, and they disappear faster than you can say “yummy!” 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pears: Use ripe but firm pears for the best texture. A Bosc or Anjou pear works well. If they’re not available, you can substitute with firmer varieties like Asian pears or even apples for a different twist!
Prosciutto: This Italian cured meat adds a salty kick. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, try turkey or chicken bacon. For vegetarian options, consider wrapping with thin slices of smoked tofu or prosciutto substitutes.
Rosemary: Fresh rosemary gives a lovely aroma. You can substitute it with fresh thyme for a slightly different flavor. Dried herbs work too, but fresh is more fragrant!
Honey or Balsamic Glaze: Honey adds sweetness, while balsamic glaze provides a tangy note. If you prefer a vegan option, use agave syrup or simply skip the drizzle.
How Do I Easily Wrap and Secure the Pears?
The wrapping technique is key for a great presentation. Here’s how to do it right:
- After coring and slicing the pears, insert a rosemary sprig into each half. This will hold everything together and add flavor.
- Tightly wrap one or two slices of prosciutto around the pear half, ensuring to cover the wedges for a beautiful look.
- Secure the ends of prosciutto by tucking or overlapping, so they don’t unravel!
- Arrange them neatly on a plate with arugula underneath for contrast and a fresh touch.
By following these steps, you’ll have beautiful and tasty bites ready to impress your guests!
How to Make Prosciutto Wrapped Pears
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Main Dish:
- 2 ripe but firm pears, halved and cored
- 8 thin slices of prosciutto
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (4 pieces)
For Garnishing:
- Handful of arugula leaves
- 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
- 2 tbsp honey or balsamic glaze
- Freshly ground black pepper (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 15-20 minutes to prepare. No cooking is required, making this a quick and elegant dish for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Pears:
First, wash the pears thoroughly to remove any dirt. Next, cut each pear in half lengthwise. Carefully remove the core, making sure not to cut all the way through the bottom. This way, each half remains intact and can easily hold the fillings.
2. Slicing the Pears:
Now, slice each pear half into 3-4 thin wedges vertically, but don’t cut all the way through. This will help the pear fan out a little when you’re ready to wrap it.
3. Adding the Rosemary:
Take a fresh rosemary sprig and insert it into the center of each pear half. This acts as a skewer that holds everything together and adds a lovely aromatic flavor.
4. Wrapping with Prosciutto:
Next, take 1-2 slices of prosciutto and wrap them tightly around each pear half, ensuring the prosciutto covers the wedges well. Tuck the ends in where necessary to keep everything in place.
5. Arranging the Dish:
Place the wrapped pears on a serving plate. You can create a neat bed of arugula leaves to set them on, which adds a nice color contrast and freshness to the dish.
6. Finishing Touches:
Drizzle honey or balsamic glaze over the wrapped pears. This adds a delicious touch of sweetness and a beautiful shine to the presentation.
7. Adding Color and Flavor:
Sprinkle pomegranate seeds around the plate for an eye-catching pop of color and a little burst of tangy flavor.
8. Serving Your Creation:
Optionally, sprinkle some freshly ground black pepper on top for a little bit of spice! Serve these prosciutto-wrapped pears immediately as an appetizer or a fancy snack.
This recipe is a perfect balance of sweet and savory, pairing the juicy flavors of pears with the saltiness of prosciutto. Enjoy entertaining your guests with this quick and elegant dish!
Can I Use Different Types of Pears for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While Bosc or Anjou pears work best due to their firmness and sweetness, you can also use Asian pears or even firmer apples if pears aren’t available. Just make sure they’re ripe yet sturdy enough to hold their shape when wrapped.
Can I Prepare These Wrapped Pears in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare them about an hour ahead of time! Just wrap the pears and keep them covered in the fridge. Drizzle the honey or balsamic glaze just before serving to keep them looking fresh and delicious.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To enjoy, simply eat them cold or warm them briefly in the microwave for a few seconds, though they’re best fresh!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
This recipe is already gluten-free as it uses fresh fruits and prosciutto. Just ensure that the balsamic glaze or honey you use is gluten-free if you’re particularly sensitive!