Prosciutto-Wrapped Pears with Balsamic Reduction and Goat Cheese Recipe

Introduction

Prosciutto-Wrapped Pears with Balsamic is a simple yet elegant appetizer that balances sweet, salty, and tangy flavors. This dish combines ripe pears, savory prosciutto, and a luscious balsamic reduction for a perfect start to any meal.

Ingredients

• 2 ripe but firm pears, such as Bosc or Anjou
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 6 thin slices prosciutto, halved lengthwise
• 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 2 tablespoons crumbled goat cheese or Gorgonzola
• Fresh arugula or basil leaves

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the balsamic reduction by combining balsamic vinegar and honey in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is reduced by half and syrupy. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
2. Step 2: Slice the pears by cutting each into quarters and removing the cores. Then slice each quarter in half lengthwise to create 8 wedges per pear.
3. Step 3: Wrap each pear wedge with a strip of prosciutto, overlapping slightly to ensure it stays secure.
4. Step 4: Arrange the prosciutto-wrapped pears on a serving platter and drizzle evenly with the balsamic reduction.
5. Step 5: Season with freshly ground black pepper, sprinkle crumbled goat cheese or Gorgonzola on top, and garnish with fresh arugula or basil leaves if desired.
6. Step 6: Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors at their best.

Tips & Variations

• Choose firm pears to avoid them becoming too soft when wrapped and served.
• Substitute goat cheese with blue cheese for a sharper flavor.
• Add toasted walnuts or pecans for extra texture and nutty depth.
• Use fresh thyme leaves for an additional herbal aroma.

Storage

Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Reheat briefly in a warm oven if desired, but it’s best served fresh to maintain the texture of the pears and prosciutto.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of fruit instead of pears?

Yes, firm fruits like apples or quince can be used as alternatives, but pears provide a perfect balance of sweetness and texture for this recipe.

Is it necessary to make the balsamic reduction?

While you can drizzle plain balsamic vinegar, reducing it creates a thicker, sweeter glaze that complements the salty prosciutto and fresh pears beautifully.

Prosciutto-Wrapped Pears with Balsamic Reduction and Goat Cheese Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 52 reviews

• Author: Jake
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 12 pieces 1x

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Description

Prosciutto-Wrapped Pears with a sweet and tangy balsamic reduction make an elegant and flavorful appetizer. The combination of ripe, firm pears, salty prosciutto, creamy goat cheese, and fresh herbs creates a perfect balance of textures and tastes, ideal for entertaining or a light bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Fruits and Cheese

• 2 ripe but firm pears, such as Bosc or Anjou
• 2 tablespoons crumbled goat cheese or Gorgonzola
• Fresh arugula or basil leaves (for garnish)

Meats

• 6 thin slices prosciutto, halved lengthwise

Sauces and Seasoning

• 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare Balsamic Reduction: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar and 1 teaspoon honey. Bring to a simmer and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reduces by half and becomes syrupy. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
2. Slice Pears: Cut each pear into quarters and remove the cores. Then slice each quarter in half lengthwise to create 8 wedges per pear.
3. Wrap Pears with Prosciutto: Take one strip of prosciutto and wrap it around each pear wedge, overlapping slightly to ensure the prosciutto stays securely wrapped around the pear.
4. Arrange and Drizzle: Place all prosciutto-wrapped pear wedges neatly on a serving platter. Drizzle the balsamic reduction evenly over the wrapped pears for a glossy, flavorful finish.
5. Garnish and Season: Season the pears with freshly ground black pepper to taste. Sprinkle crumbled goat cheese or Gorgonzola on top for a creamy contrast. Garnish with fresh arugula or basil leaves if desired to add freshness and color.
6. Serve: Present immediately to enjoy the combination of fresh, vibrant flavors and textures at their best.

Notes

• For best results, use ripe but firm pears to maintain shape during wrapping.
• Balsamic reduction can be prepared in advance and refrigerated; rewarm slightly before drizzling.
• Substitute goat cheese with blue cheese or feta depending on your preference.
• Fresh herbs like basil add a nice aromatic touch but can be omitted if unavailable.
• This dish is best served fresh to preserve the texture of the pears and prosciutto.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Keywords: prosciutto wrapped pears, balsamic reduction, appetizer, Italian appetizer, pear recipes, easy appetizers, goat cheese appetizers