These prosciutto-wrapped pears are a perfect blend of sweet and salty! The juicy pears get a tasty upgrade with crispy, savory prosciutto that makes every bite delightful.
Honestly, they look super fancy but are so easy to make. I love serving them as a snack or appetizer, and they disappear faster than I can say “delicious!”
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pears: Ripe pears are key for sweetness and juiciness. I prefer Bartlett or Anjou varieties for their soft texture. If you can’t find pears, slices of apple or peaches make for a nice twist!
Prosciutto: The saltiness of prosciutto balances the sweet juicy pears perfectly. If you’re looking for a substitute, try thin slices of smoked turkey or bacon for a different flavor profile.
Fresh Mozzarella/Burrata: I love burrata for its creamy center, but mozzarella works just fine. You can swap with goat cheese or feta for a tangy kick. Just adjust the amount to your taste!
Arugula: It adds a fresh peppery flavor. If you’re not a fan, baby spinach or mixed greens will also work well.
Pomegranate Seeds: These bright seeds are optional but add a nice crunch and freshness. If you can’t find them, consider using chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a similar effect.
How Do I Wrap the Pears Perfectly?
Wrapping pears with prosciutto looks elegant but can be tricky. The key is to ensure the prosciutto overlaps slightly and completely covers the pear halves. Here’s how to do it:
- Lay the pear half with the cheese facing up. Start with one slice of prosciutto at the top of the pear.
- Wrap the prosciutto around the pear, slightly overlapping each slice as you go down.
- Try to keep the cheese and arugula tucked tightly inside as you wrap.
- Repeat for each pear half, ensuring they all get the beauty treatment!
This technique not only looks good but also helps keep the filling in place while cooking or serving. Enjoy the process, and don’t stress if the prosciutto tears a bit – it’s all going to taste great!
Prosciutto Wrapped Pears
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pears:
- 4 ripe pears, halved and cored
For the Filling:
- 8 thin slices of prosciutto (2 per pear half)
- 4 ounces fresh mozzarella or burrata cheese, cut into sticks
- A handful of fresh arugula leaves
For Garnishing:
- Pomegranate seeds (for garnish)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: honey for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious appetizer takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for impressing your guests! You can serve it immediately or chill it in the fridge for a little while before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pears:
Start by washing the pears under cool water. Using a sharp knife, slice each pear in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out the core and seeds with a small spoon or melon baller to make enough space for the filling. Make sure not to cut through the pear skin.
2. Fill with Cheese and Greens:
Take the fresh mozzarella or burrata cheese and cut it into sticks that fit nicely inside the pear halves. Place a few arugula leaves in each cavity with the cheese, giving them a fresh, peppery taste.
3. Wrap with Prosciutto:
Now comes the fun part! Grab your slices of prosciutto and wrap each pear half tightly with two slices, making sure to cover the cheese and arugula well. The thin prosciutto will stick to itself, so you don’t have to worry about it unraveling!
4. Arrange and Garnish:
Once all the pears are wrapped, place them on a pretty serving plate. Sprinkle pomegranate seeds around the pears for a splash of color and delicious bite. If you’d like a touch of sweetness, drizzle a bit of honey over the top.
5. Final Touches:
To enhance the flavors, add a light sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper over everything just before serving. This will bring out the sweetness of the pears and the saltiness of the prosciutto beautifully.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
These prosciutto wrapped pears are best enjoyed fresh, so serve them immediately as a sophisticated appetizer or snack. Your guests will love them!
This recipe is not only stunning but also highlights the sweet juiciness of pears wrapped in savory prosciutto, complemented by creamy cheese and fresh arugula. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella or burrata are great choices, you can also use goat cheese, feta, or even cream cheese for a different flavor profile. Just make sure the cheese you choose can fit inside the pear halves!
What If My Pears Aren’t Ripe?
It’s best to use ripe pears for optimal sweetness and flavor. If your pears are firm, let them ripen at room temperature for a few days. You can speed up ripening by placing them in a paper bag. Just keep an eye on them to prevent overripening!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store the wrapped pears in an airtight container in the fridge. They’re best enjoyed within 1-2 days. To revive their flavor, let them sit at room temperature for a bit before serving, or lightly warm them in the oven.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the pears by wrapping them in prosciutto and storing them in the fridge for up to 2 hours before serving. Just add the pomegranate seeds and honey drizzle right before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant!
