Imagine a summer evening, the sun beginning to set and the air filled with the earthy scent of grilled fruit mingling with savory spices. I first stumbled upon the delightful combination of grilled apples with prosciutto and honey during a backyard barbecue, where my friend served it as an unexpected appetizer. The sweet apples, with their perfectly charred edges, paired beautifully with the salty prosciutto and the drizzle of honey—a perfect balance of sweet and savory.
This easy recipe quickly became a staple in my kitchen, ideal for entertaining guests or simply enjoying a quiet night at home. With just a few ingredients and a bit of grilling magic, you can create a dish that impresses on every level. Not only is it a wonderful way to showcase seasonal produce, but the contrasting flavors elevate grilled fruit into something extraordinary. So, let’s dive into this deliciously unique recipe that’s bound to become a favorite for any home cook!
Why will you love Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey?
Irresistible Flavor Fusion: The mix of sweet apples and savory prosciutto creates a mouthwatering experience.
Easy to Prepare: With minimal ingredients, this dish can be made in under 15 minutes.
Perfect for Entertaining: Impress your guests with this gourmet appetizer that sparks conversation.
Seasonal Delight: Ideal for summer evenings, it celebrates the best of fresh produce.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as an appetizer, side dish, or even a dessert with ice cream.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This sweet-savory combo is sure to please everyone at your gathering.
Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey Ingredients
For the Apples
- Fresh apples – Use tart varieties like Granny Smith for a perfect balance with the prosciutto.
- Olive oil – A light drizzle brings out the sweetness of the grilled apples.
For the Prosciutto
- Prosciutto slices – Adds a savory, salty crunch; consider using crisped prosciutto for extra texture.
For the Finish
- Honey – A natural sweetener to drizzle over the finished dish, enhancing the flavor of the grilled apples.
- Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional) – A sprinkle of herbs elevates the dish with aromatic freshness.
Enjoy this delightful twist with Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey—a blend of sweet and savory that’s bound to impress!
How to Make Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey
-
Prepare the grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat. This will ensure that the apples get those beautiful grill marks and sweetness escapes into the air while cooking.
-
Slice the apples: Core the fresh apples and cut them into thick wedges. Keeping the thickness uniform will help them cook evenly and maintain a nice texture.
-
Drizzle with olive oil: Lightly drizzle the apple wedges with olive oil, ensuring they’re coated on all sides. This will help the apples caramelize beautifully on the grill.
-
Grill the apples: Place the apple wedges on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are slightly charred and tender but still hold their shape. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
-
Crisp the prosciutto: In the last minute of grilling, add the prosciutto slices directly onto the grill for a quick crisping. Grill them for about 1-2 minutes until they are nicely toasted.
-
Assemble the dish: Remove the grilled apples and crispy prosciutto from the grill. Plate the apples and top them with the prosciutto slices, creating a beautiful contrast.
-
Finish with honey: Drizzle a generous amount of honey over the warm apples and prosciutto. If using herbs, sprinkle fresh thyme or rosemary for added flavor.
Optional: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert twist.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey?
Imagine a delightful summer evening filled with the aroma of grilled fruit and savory herbs—the perfect setting for a truly memorable meal.
-
Fresh Arugula Salad: A peppery arugula salad adds a crisp contrast, enhancing the sweet-savory profile of the apples. Toss in a light vinaigrette to brighten up the dish.
-
Creamy Goat Cheese: The tangy, creamy texture of goat cheese creates a rich contrast to the grilled apples, adding depth to each bite of this delectable treat.
-
Toasted Baguette Slices: Crunchy baguette slices spread with a hint of butter allow you to savor the caramelized apples alongside the prosciutto, turning it into a complete appetizer experience.
-
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal veggies brings earthy flavors to the mix, balancing the sweetness of the apples with a hearty touch.
-
Charcuterie Board: Build a vibrant charcuterie board featuring cured meats, gourmet cheeses, and olives to complement your flavorful grilled apples, transforming your gathering into a feast of tastes.
-
Sparkling White Wine: A chilled sparkling wine dazzles alongside the sweetness of honey and the saltiness of prosciutto, enhancing the overall tasting experience.
-
Vanilla Ice Cream: For a dreamy dessert twist, serve warm grilled apples drizzled with honey over a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream—an indulgent treat that marries sweet and savory perfectly.
Expert Tips for Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey
-
Select the Right Apples: Tart varieties like Granny Smith work wonderfully, balancing the sweet and savory flavors while providing a firm texture that holds up well on the grill.
-
Uniform Thickness: Cut your apple wedges into uniform thickness for even grilling; thinner slices may become mushy while thicker ones might remain undercooked.
-
Monitor the Grill: Keep a close eye on the apples as they grill; they can go from perfectly charred to burnt in just moments if not watched carefully.
-
Crisp the Prosciutto Last: Add the prosciutto to the grill in the final minute to ensure it gets crispy without burning, perfectly complementing the warm apples.
-
Drizzle Honey at the End: Apply honey after grilling to get the full spectrum of flavors; heating it beforehand can cause it to become overly syrupy and lose some sweetness.
These helpful tips will assure that your Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey turn out perfectly every time!
How to Store and Freeze Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey
Room Temperature: Enjoy your grilled apples immediately for the best flavor and texture; they should not sit out for more than 2 hours to ensure freshness.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to restore some warmth before enjoying again.
Freezer: While not ideal, you can freeze the grilled apples for up to 2 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. Prosciutto is best enjoyed fresh and should not be frozen.
Reheating: For best results, reheat grilled apples gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. If using from frozen, allow them to thaw in the fridge before reheating and enjoy this delicious combination in no time!
Make Ahead Options
These Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor this delightful dish even on the busiest days! You can prepare the apple wedges and drizzle them with olive oil up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to prevent browning. The prosciutto can be prepped up to 3 days ahead—just crisp it in the oven instead of the grill right before serving, as this retains its crunchy texture. When you’re ready to enjoy, grill the marinated apple wedges for about 3-4 minutes per side, then top with the crispy prosciutto and honey. This way, you’ll have a gourmet appetizer ready with minimal effort, bringing the flavors of summer straight to your table!
Variations & Substitutions for Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey
Feel free to get creative with this recipe—there’s a world of flavors waiting to be explored!
-
Different Apples: Experiment with honeycrisp or Fuji apples for a sweeter taste. Their natural sugars make for a delightful contrast with prosciutto.
-
Cheese Pairing: Add Goat Cheese: Crumble fresh goat cheese over the dish for a creamy, tangy twist that pairs beautifully with sweet and savory elements.
-
Herbal Infusion: Add Basil: Fresh basil can transform the dish with its aromatic zest. Add it as a garnish just before serving for that extra brightness.
-
Berry Blast: Top with Berries: Consider sprinkling fresh blueberries or raspberries on the plate for a pop of color and tartness that complements the grilled apples.
-
Nutty Crunch: Roasted Pecans: Toss in some chopped, roasted pecans for an added crunch and nutty flavor that elevates the texture profile.
-
Heat Level: Add Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a little kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes on top before serving to add a subtle heat to the mix.
-
Honey Swap: Use Maple Syrup: Swap the honey for pure maple syrup for a unique flavor that pairs perfectly with the grilled apples and prosciutto.
-
Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle balsamic glaze over the finished dish for a sweet and tangy finish that takes the flavor experience to a whole new level.
These variations and substitutions invite you to personalize your Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey, ensuring every bite is a delightful surprise for you and your guests!
Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right apples for grilling?
Absolutely! For grilling, tart apple varieties like Granny Smith are ideal due to their firm structure and ability to balance the savory flavors of prosciutto. Look for apples that are free of bruises and dark spots. If you prefer something sweeter, Fuji or Honeycrisp apples are also delicious options that will caramelize beautifully when grilled.
What’s the best way to store leftover grilled apples?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Gently reheat them on the stovetop or microwave to restore warmth and flavor. I recommend enjoying them fresh, but if you do have leftovers, they can still be a delightful treat!
Can I freeze grilled apples with prosciutto?
While not ideal, you can freeze the grilled apples for up to 2 months. To do this, place the cooled apple wedges in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them individually. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. Keep in mind that prosciutto should not be frozen, as it’s best enjoyed fresh and crispy.
What should I do if my grilled apples are mushy?
To prevent mushy apples, it’s crucial to cut them into thick wedges and watch them closely while grilling. If you find they’ve become soft, try reducing the grilling time by checking them sooner. For a firmer texture, grill them on medium heat for just the right balance of charred and tender.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! To make a vegan version of Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey, simply swap the prosciutto for a crispy alternative like coconut bacon or simply leave it out. For the honey drizzle, consider using maple syrup or agave nectar to keep it plant-based. This way, you can still enjoy that sweet-savory combo without any animal products!
How should I serve grilled apples with prosciutto?
These grilled apples make a stunning appetizer or a delightful addition to a salad. You can also serve them warm as a dessert with vanilla ice cream on the side. For an elegant presentation, drizzle additional honey over the top and sprinkle a few fresh herbs for that gourmet touch.
Enjoy making your unforgettable Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey!
Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey for a Sweet Savory Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat for optimal cooking.
- Slice the apples: Core and cut the apples into thick wedges for even cooking.
- Drizzle with olive oil: Lightly coat apple wedges with olive oil.
- Grill the apples: Cook the apple wedges for 3-4 minutes per side until slightly charred.
- Crisp the prosciutto: In the last minute, grill the prosciutto slices for 1-2 minutes until toasted.
- Assemble the dish: Plate the grilled apples and top with prosciutto.
- Finish with honey: Drizzle honey over warm apples and prosciutto.