Prosciutto wrapped pears are a delicious mix of sweet and salty. Juicy pears are wrapped in thin, savory prosciutto, making a perfect bite-size treat for any occasion!
These little bites are super easy to make! I love serving them at gatherings, and they always get gobbled up fast. Plus, they look fancy while being a breeze to whip up! 🍐
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pears: Bosc and Anjou are my favorites because they’re firm and juicy. You can also use Bartlett pears if they’re slightly underripe. For a twist, try apples too, as they add crunch and sweetness!
Prosciutto: Look for thinly sliced prosciutto, which wraps better around the pears. If you’re looking for a substitute, speck is a good choice for a smoky flavor. You could also use turkey bacon for a lighter option, though it will taste different.
Arugula: This adds a peppery flavor. If you don’t have arugula, baby spinach or mixed greens can work too, though they are milder in taste. You might want to add a dash of lemon juice to substitute the pepperiness.
Pomegranate seeds: These are a great garnish that adds a pop of color and sweetness. If they’re out of season, you can use chopped walnuts or even slivers of almonds for a crunchy garnish.
How Do I Achieve Tender Yet Firm Roasted Pears?
Roasting pears requires a bit of care to keep them tender without getting mushy. Here’s how I do it:
- Preheat your oven properly to 375°F, as this ensures even cooking.
- Core the pears carefully, making sure not to slice too deep; you want them to hold together.
- Lightly coat the pears with olive oil and season well. This helps them caramelize nicely.
- Roast them for 20-25 minutes, and check periodically. They’re done when a fork slides in easily but they hold shape.
Let the pears cool a bit after roasting; this helps them firm up slightly, making wrapping easier!
How to Make Prosciutto Wrapped Pears
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pears:
- 4 ripe but firm pears (Bosc or Anjou work well)
- 8 slices of prosciutto (thinly sliced)
For the Filling:
- 1 cup fresh arugula leaves
- 1 apple, thinly sliced
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for roasting pears)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 25 minutes to roast. You will spend a total of about 40 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick yet impressive appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature helps the pears roast evenly, turning tender and slightly caramelized, which enhances their natural sweetness.
2. Prepare the Pears:
Wash the pears thoroughly and dry them well. Leaving the stems on adds a lovely presentation! Next, use a small paring knife to core each pear. Carefully cut a slit from the bottom to the center, creating enough room for stuffing without cutting all the way through.
3. Season and Roast:
Drizzle the pears lightly with olive oil and sprinkle freshly ground black pepper over them for flavor. Place them on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re tender but still hold their shape—check occasionally to avoid overcooking.
4. Stuff the Pears:
Once roasted, remove the pears from the oven and let them cool slightly. Carefully stuff each pear slit with a few slices of apple and a handful of arugula leaves, mixing flavors and textures.
5. Wrap with Prosciutto:
Now it’s time to wrap! Take two slices of prosciutto and gently wrap each stuffed pear, ensuring the filling is secure inside. The prosciutto will add a delicious salty touch to the sweet pears.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Arrange the prosciutto-wrapped pears on a serving plate. Sprinkle the pomegranate seeds around for a vibrant, festive look. These bites can be served warm or at room temperature, making them perfect for any gathering or party!
This dish beautifully balances the sweetness of the pears and apples with the salty richness of prosciutto, enhanced by the peppery arugula and the pop of pomegranate seeds. Enjoy every delightful bite!
Can I Prepare These Prosciutto Wrapped Pears in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pears and roast them up to a day in advance. Just store the roasted pears in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, stuff them with the apple and arugula filling, wrap with prosciutto, and enjoy!
What if I Can’t Find Fresh Pears?
No worries! If fresh pears aren’t available, canned or jarred pears can be used, though they might be softer. Make sure to drain and pat them dry, then skip the roasting step and proceed directly to stuffing and wrapping.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover prosciutto wrapped pears in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To enjoy them warmed, gently reheat them in the oven at a low temperature to avoid making the prosciutto too crispy.
Can I Use a Different Green in Place of Arugula?
Definitely! While arugula adds a peppery flavor, you can substitute it with spinach or even spring mix if you prefer a milder taste. Just be aware that they won’t provide the same unique flavor contrast.