As the sun sets and the grill warms up, the thought of sweet, smoky flavors fills the air. One evening, I decided to experiment with an unexpected combination that would elevate our outdoor gatherings—from the staple burgers to something far more intriguing. Enter Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey, a dish that beautifully marries the sweetness of caramelized fruit with the savory richness of prosciutto. In minutes, you’ll have a stunning appetizer or side dish that will leave your guests wondering if they’re about to enjoy a gourmet experience.
Whether it’s a charming get-together or a simple weeknight dinner, this crowd-pleaser is not only easy to make but also versatile, allowing for personal touches like adding fresh herbs or a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Perfect for those who want to break free from mundane meals, this juicy fusion of flavors will transform the ordinary into extraordinary. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe and discover how easy it is to impress—one grilled apple at a time!
Why will you love Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey?
Unique Flavor Combination: Sweet grilled apples paired with savory prosciutto create a tantalizing contrast.
Quick to Prepare: With just a few ingredients, this dish comes together in minutes, making it perfect for last-minute entertaining.
Impress Your Guests: The stunning presentation and exquisite flavors will have your friends raving about your culinary skills.
Versatility: Easily customize with herbs or a splash of balsamic for added depth.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a BBQ or a cozy dinner, this dish fits right in, elevating the dining experience!
Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey Ingredients
For the Apples
• apples – Choose firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best grilling results.
• prosciutto – Adds a delightful salty contrast; look for high-quality, thinly sliced prosciutto for optimum flavor.
• honey – Provides a natural sweetness and enhances caramelization; local honey can add unique notes.
• cinnamon – A sprinkle can elevate the flavor, adding warmth and spice to the sweet and savory combination.
Optional Add-Ins
• fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme) – Sprinkle on top after grilling for a fresh, aromatic touch.
• balsamic glaze – Drizzle after grilling to introduce a tangy balance to the sweet and savory flavors of the dish.
These Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey are sure to be a hit at your next gathering!
How to Make Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey
-
Preheat your grill to medium heat, about 350°F. This ensures even cooking and perfect caramelization of the apples, which brings out their natural sweetness.
-
Prepare the apples by slicing them vertically into thick wedges, discarding the core. Firm apples like Granny Smith work best for grilling, keeping their shape and texture.
-
Wrap each apple wedge with a slice of prosciutto, ensuring they are snug but not overly tight so they maintain their shape while grilling.
-
Grill the apple-wrapped prosciutto for about 4-5 minutes on each side until the prosciutto is crispy and the apples are tender and have grill marks.
-
Drizzle honey over the grilled apples while they’re still hot, allowing it to melt and deepen the flavors. For an extra spice kick, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon before serving.
-
Serve warm, garnished with optional fresh herbs or a splash of balsamic glaze for a tangy twist that complements the sweetness of the apples and saltiness of the prosciutto.
Optional: Top with finely chopped fresh herbs for a burst of freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey
-
Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for crisp, firm apples and high-quality prosciutto to enhance the flavors. Fresh, local honey and aromatic herbs also elevate the dish.
-
Proper Slicing: Cut apples into thick wedges for even grilling. Thin slices may turn mushy and fall apart, losing that delicious texture.
-
Watch the Grill: Keep an eye on the apples as they grill; they should be tender yet firm. Over-grilling can lead to overly soft apples that break apart.
-
Flavor Boost: Experiment with fresh herbs or a drizzle of balsamic glaze to add depth to the sweet and savory grilled apples.
-
Serve Immediately: These treats are best enjoyed warm, as the honey and prosciutto flavors are at their peak right after grilling.
How to Store and Freeze Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey
Room Temperature: Serve immediately after grilling for the best flavor and texture, as they are best enjoyed warm.
Fridge: Store leftover grilled apples in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes to restore their warmth.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the grilled apples in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat on a grill pan or in the oven until warm. The prosciutto may lose some crispiness, but the flavors will still delight!
What to Serve with Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey?
Elevate your gathering with delightful accompaniments that perfectly balance the sweet and savory notes of your grilled apples.
-
Arugula Salad: A peppery arugula salad with a light vinaigrette provides a fresh contrast to the rich flavors, enhancing your meal beautifully.
-
Brie Cheese: Creamy, soft brie complements the sweetness of the grilled apples, creating a decadent, shareable dish that your guests will adore.
-
Toasted Baguette Slices: Serve these grilled apples atop toasted baguette slices for a delightful texture contrast—crunchy, soft, sweet, and savory in each bite!
-
Sparkling White Wine: A chilled glass of sparkling white wine cuts through the richness of the prosciutto while enhancing the sweetness of the honey, making it a refreshing pairing.
-
Maple Glazed Nuts: Crunchy, sweet maple-glazed nuts add a textural delight, and their caramel notes complement the apple’s sweetness.
-
Cinnamon Ice Cream: A scoop of cinnamon ice cream alongside the warm grilled apples will take your dessert game to another level—a delightful finish that is cozy and indulgent.
Adding these wonderful pairings not only enhances your dining experience but also impresses your guests with a full sensory feast!
Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey Variations
Feel free to get creative with your grilling! These suggestions will inspire you to craft your ultimate flavor experience.
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh rosemary or thyme while grilling for an aromatic enhancement that complements the sweetness beautifully.
- Nutty Crunch: Top the grilled apples with crushed walnuts or pecans for added texture and a lovely nutty flavor that contrasts delightfully with the soft apples.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a surprising heat that dances with the sweetness.
- Maple Twist: Replace honey with maple syrup for a different sweet profile that pairs perfectly with the smoky, savory flavors of prosciutto.
- Cheesy Finish: Crumble some goat cheese or sharp cheddar over the warm apples for a creamy contrast that takes this dish over the top.
- Dessert Delight: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream to transform your grilled apples into a dreamy dessert.
- Balsamic Reduction: Instead of glaze, make a balsamic reduction to drizzle over for a tangy twist that heightens the dish’s complexity and flavor.
- Fruity Fusion: Add slices of peach or pear on the grill alongside the apples to create a sweet fruit medley that elevates your dish even further.
Each variation invites versatility to this delightful recipe, allowing you to tailor it to your taste or occasion!
Make Ahead Options
These Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can slice and wrap the apples with prosciutto up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent browning. For the best flavor, drizzle the honey just before grilling to keep it from caramelizing too early. When you’re ready to serve, simply preheat the grill, add the prepared apple wedges, and grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side. With this make-ahead strategy, you’ll save time and elevate your gatherings effortlessly, enjoying the same delicious sweet-savory experience with minimal last-minute effort!
Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey Recipe FAQs
What types of apples work best for grilling?
When grilling apples, I recommend choosing firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. These types hold their shape and texture well under heat, allowing for a perfect caramelization without becoming mushy.
How should I store leftover grilled apples?
Store any leftover grilled apples in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them gently in a skillet over low heat when you’re ready to enjoy them again, allowing their flavors to revive without losing texture.
Can I freeze grilled apples, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze grilled apples, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, where they can be kept for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat them on a grill pan to enjoy.
What can I do if my prosciutto isn’t getting crispy?
If you’re finding that your prosciutto isn’t achieving that desired crispiness while grilling, ensure that your grill is preheated to medium heat before placing the apples on it. You can also try slightly increasing the cooking time, but keep a close watch to prevent burning. Another tip is to use a higher quality, thinner prosciutto for better results!
Are there any dietary alternatives for this recipe?
Certainly! If you’re looking for dietary alternatives, I recommend using a plant-based prosciutto for a vegetarian option. You can also drizzle with agave syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly approach. Additionally, consider adding fresh herbs or balsamic glaze for an extra layer of flavor without dietary restrictions.
How can I enhance the flavor of my grilled apples?
To elevate the flavor of your grilled apples with prosciutto and honey, try sprinkling some cinnamon on top before grilling, which adds warmth and spice. Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme make delightful additions after grilling, bringing brightness that beautifully complements the sweet and savory elements of the dish.
Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey: A Sweet Savory Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your grill to medium heat, about 350°F.
- Prepare the apples by slicing them vertically into thick wedges, discarding the core.
- Wrap each apple wedge with a slice of prosciutto, ensuring they are snug but not overly tight.
- Grill the apple-wrapped prosciutto for about 4-5 minutes on each side until crispy and tender.
- Drizzle honey over the grilled apples while they're still hot.
- Serve warm, garnished with optional fresh herbs or a splash of balsamic glaze.