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.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- 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.
- Slice Pears: Cut each pear into quarters and remove the cores. Then slice each quarter in half lengthwise to create 8 wedges per pear.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
