There’s something undeniably enchanting about the scent of grilled fruit mingling with savory prosciutto. I first discovered this delightful combination one summer evening while experimenting with flavors on my backyard grill. The sweet, caramelized apples paired with the smoky, salty notes of prosciutto truly surprised me and my guests, elevating our barbecue into a gourmet experience.
This recipe for Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey is a testament to the magic that happens when you make bold choices in the kitchen. Within just 20 minutes, you’ll have a dish that’s not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious and versatile — perfect as an appetizer, a side dish, or even a light dessert. Trust me, these sweet and savory bites will have everyone reaching for seconds, and they’ll surely become a go-to favorite at your gatherings. So, dust off your grill and prepare to impress!
Why are Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey so special?
Simplicity: This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it an effortless addition to your meal prep.
Flavor Explosion: The sweet apples, smoky prosciutto, and drizzle of honey create a delicious balance that’s unforgettable.
Versatility: Serve it as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light dessert; it fits any occasion perfectly.
Gourmet Touch: Elevate your barbecue with this elegant dish that is surprisingly easy to make yet looks impressive on the plate.
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfectly grilled apples will have everyone at your gathering raving and asking for the recipe!
Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey Ingredients
• Discover the delightful flavors below!
For the Apples
- Apples – Choose firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best grilling results.
- Olive Oil – Adds a touch of richness and prevents sticking; use extra-virgin for better flavor.
For the Prosciutto
- Prosciutto – The smoky, salty notes will enhance the sweetness of the apples; thick slices hold up well on the grill.
For the Drizzle
- Honey – This brings the whole dish together with a sweet finish; feel free to substitute with maple syrup for a different twist.
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh Thyme – A sprinkle of this herb will add a lovely aromatic quality and freshness to the dish.
- Crushed Walnuts – For a nutty crunch, consider tossing in some crushed walnuts just before serving.
Enjoy making these delicious Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey that will leave your guests enchanted!
How to Make Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey
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Preheat your grill to medium heat, around 350°F (175°C). This temperature helps achieve those beautiful grill marks while ensuring the apples cook evenly.
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Prepare the apples by slicing them into thick wedges, about 1-inch wide. This thickness will prevent them from falling apart on the grill while still allowing them to soften and caramelize beautifully.
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Brush the apple wedges lightly with olive oil on both sides. This adds flavor and helps prevent sticking to the grill grates, ensuring a smooth grilling process.
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Grill the apple wedges for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Look for nice grill marks and a tender yet still slightly firm texture; they should caramelize beautifully while maintaining their shape.
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Wrap the apple wedges with prosciutto, using one slice per wedge. The prosciutto will add a delightful saltiness that contrasts perfectly with the sweet apples, enhancing the overall flavor.
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Return the wrapped apples to the grill for an additional 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally until the prosciutto becomes crispy. This adds a savory crunch that perfectly complements the sweetness of the fruit.
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Drizzle the grilled apples with honey just before removing them from the grill. This creates a magical glaze that ties all the flavors together, providing a sweet finish that’s hard to resist.
Optional: Garnish with fresh thyme or crushed walnuts for added flavor and texture.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey Variations
Feel free to mix things up and make this dish your own with these tasty alternatives!
- Maple Glaze: Swap honey for maple syrup for a unique twist that adds a deep, rich flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes before grilling for a surprising heat that complements the sweetness.
- Cheese Addition: Top the grilled apples with crumbled goat cheese or feta for a creamy, tangy contrast with the prosciutto.
- Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped pecans or almonds with the final garnish for an added crunch that elevates the dish’s texture.
- Herb Infusion: Instead of thyme, try wrapping the apples with fresh basil for a sweet-savory playfulness that surprises the palate.
- Balsamic Drizzle: Finish with a drizzle of balsamic reduction instead of honey for a tangy sweetness that adds depth.
- Sautéed Greens: Serve on a bed of sautéed kale or spinach to add a touch of earthiness and freshness to your plate.
- Citrus Zing: A splash of fresh lemon juice before grilling brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing acidity to balance the richness.
What to Serve with Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey?
Elevate your hosting game by pairing these delightful bites with complementary dishes that embrace their sweet and savory essence.
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Fresh Arugula Salad: A peppery arugula salad brings a refreshing balance to the richness of the prosciutto and honey.
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Creamy Burrata: The creamy texture of burrata contrasts beautifully with the crispy prosciutto and sweet grilled apples. Enjoy the mix on crusty bread.
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Savory Sausage Links: Juicy sausage adds a hearty element, resonating with the smoky notes of the prosciutto while the sweetness of the apples creates a perfect harmony.
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Honey Glazed Carrots: The natural sweetness of honey-glazed carrots enhances the dish’s flavors, providing a colorful and nutritious side for your meal.
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Rosemary Garlic Bread: Serve warm rosemary garlic bread to soak up the flavor of the honey and create a wonderful textural difference.
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Sparkling Cider: A chilled glass of sparkling cider brings refreshing acidity, enhancing the sweetness in the apples while harmonizing with the saltiness of the prosciutto.
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Dark Chocolate Squares: End the meal on a sweet note with dark chocolate, perfectly balancing the savory elements and satisfying any lingering sweet cravings.
Make Ahead Options
These Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can slice the apples and wrap them in prosciutto up to 24 hours in advance, sealing them in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent browning. Additionally, prepare the honey drizzle (you can warm it slightly before serving) and refrigerate it until ready to use. When it’s time to grill, all you need to do is brush the apple wedges with olive oil, grill them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until tender, and finally add that luscious honey glaze. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious grilled apples that are just as delightful as if they were made fresh on the spot!
Expert Tips for Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey
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Choose the Right Apples: Select firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They hold up well on the grill without losing their shape or flavor.
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Perfect Olive Oil Application: Brush the apples lightly with olive oil; too much can lead to flare-ups and ruin the grilling process.
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Timing is Key: Grill the apples for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Keeping an eye on them helps achieve perfect caramelization without overcooking.
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Prosciutto Perfection: Use thick slices of prosciutto to wrap the apples—they crisp up nicely without falling apart, enhancing the dish’s texture.
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Finish with Honey: Drizzling honey just before removing from the grill adds a sweet glaze. Avoid adding it too early, as it can burn over high heat.
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Experiment with Garnishes: Fresh thyme or crushed walnuts elevates the dish, adding layers of flavor and a delightful crunch to your grilled apples with prosciutto and honey.
Storage Tips for Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey
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Room Temperature: If you have leftovers, store them in a cool, draft-free area for up to 2 hours. Beyond that, it’s best to refrigerate to maintain quality.
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Fridge: Keep any uneaten grilled apples in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps preserve their flavor and texture.
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Freezer: For longer storage, place wrapped grilled apples in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months, but the prosciutto may lose its crispness.
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Reheating: To enjoy your grilled apples again, reheat them in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, or warm them in the oven. This will help retain the delicious flavors of your grilled apples with prosciutto and honey.
Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey Recipe FAQs
What type of apples are best for grilling?
Choosing the right apples is crucial for optimal grilling results. I recommend using firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. These apples hold up well on the grill without losing their flavor or shape, ensuring that you get the perfect blend of sweetness and texture. Avoid softer apples, as they may turn mushy during cooking.
How should I store leftover grilled apples?
If you have any delicious grilled apples left, it’s best to store them properly. Let the apples sit at room temperature for no more than 2 hours, then transfer them to an airtight container. In the fridge, they’ll keep well for up to 3 days. Just remember, the prosciutto may lose its crispness over time, so enjoy them sooner rather than later for the best flavor!
Can I freeze grilled apples with prosciutto?
Absolutely! For longer storage, wrap the grilled apples in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently in a skillet or oven to revive their delightful flavors.
What if my prosciutto isn’t crispy after grilling?
If your prosciutto doesn’t crisp up the way you’d like, don’t worry! You can try wrapping the apple wedges tighter, ensuring there’s good coverage, or giving them a little extra grilling time. Just keep a close eye on them toward the end, checking for that beautiful crispy finish.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
While this dish is gluten-free if made without traditional bread, keep in mind that prosciutto is an animal product. If you need a vegetarian option, you can use smoked eggplant slices or even crispy tofu for a similar savory contrast to the sweet apples. It’s all about making the recipe work for your preferences!
What are some alternatives to prosciutto?
For those looking to tweak the recipe, you could try wrapping the apples in thick slices of turkey bacon or even vegan bacon for a plant-based option. The smoky flavor is what makes this dish sing, so any savory alternative that provides a similar note will work wonders in your grilling adventure!
Irresistible Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your grill to medium heat, around 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the apples by slicing them into thick wedges, about 1-inch wide.
- Brush the apple wedges lightly with olive oil on both sides.
- Grill the apple wedges for about 4-5 minutes on each side.
- Wrap the apple wedges with prosciutto, using one slice per wedge.
- Return the wrapped apples to the grill for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Drizzle the grilled apples with honey just before removing them from the grill.
- Garnish with fresh thyme or crushed walnuts if desired.