As summer’s warm embrace lingers, I found myself craving something fresh yet indulgent. While strolling through the farmers’ market, the sight of glistening apples mixed with the savory scent of prosciutto caught my attention. Curiosity piqued, I decided to experiment with a delightful twist on a classic. The result? Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey—a dish that strikes a perfect balance between sweet and salty, making it ideal for everything from casual gatherings to elegant dinners.
Picture this: juicy apples, kissed by the grill, caramelizing to a tender perfection, surrounded by crispy prosciutto that offers a delightful crunch. Finished with a drizzle of honey, this dish is not just a feast for the palate but also a visual delight. Join me as I guide you through this quick and easy recipe that will impress your family and friends while adding a refreshing touch to your dining experience!
Why will you love Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey?
Irresistible Flavor Fusion: The combination of sweet, caramelized apples with the salty crunch of prosciutto creates a taste explosion that will leave your taste buds dancing.
Quick and Easy: This recipe requires minimal prep time and can be whipped up in just a matter of minutes, perfect for those spontaneous summer gatherings.
Versatile Delight: Serve as an appetizer, side dish, or even a unique dessert option—this dish adapts beautifully to any occasion!
Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant colors and textures make this dish not just delicious but also a stunning addition to your table.
Perfect for Grilling Season: As we bid farewell to winter, these grilled apples will make you savor every moment of warm weather and outdoor dining.
Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey Ingredients
For the Apples
- Fresh Apples – Choose firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a perfect balance of sweet and tart.
- Olive Oil – A light drizzle helps the apples caramelize and enhances their flavor on the grill.
For the Prosciutto
- Prosciutto – Opt for high-quality prosciutto to ensure it crisps beautifully, adding a savory crunch to the dish.
For the Honey Drizzle
- Honey – This adds a touch of sweetness to the grilled apples and brings the flavors together. Feel free to use local honey for an extra flavor boost.
Optional Garnish
- Fresh Mint Leaves – A sprinkle of fresh mint provides a vibrant contrast and elevates the dish’s presentation.
How to Make Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey
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Preheat the Grill: Start by preheating your grill to medium heat, around 350°F (175°C). This ensures the apples will caramelize beautifully while the prosciutto crisps nicely.
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Prepare the Apples: Core and slice the fresh apples into wedges, about 1 inch thick. Drizzle olive oil over them and toss gently to coat, enhancing the grilling process.
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Grill the Apples: Place the apple wedges directly on the grill grates. Grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and have nice grill marks.
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Crisp the Prosciutto: While the apples grill, place the prosciutto slices on the grill. Allow them to cook for about 1-2 minutes per side until they are crispy, taking care not to burn them.
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Assemble the Dish: Once the apples are grilled and the prosciutto is crispy, take them off the grill. Arrange the apple wedges on a serving platter and crumble the prosciutto on top.
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Drizzle with Honey: Finish the dish by drizzling honey over the apples and prosciutto. This delightful sweetness ties everything together beautifully!
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Garnish and Serve: If desired, add fresh mint leaves as a garnish for added freshness and color. Serve warm and enjoy!
Optional: Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a unique dessert experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey?
Looking to elevate your culinary experience? Pair these delectable grilled apples with vibrant accompaniments that complement their sweet and savory notes.
- Fresh Arugula Salad: The peppery crunch of arugula adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the grilled apples while providing a healthy element to your meal.
- Creamy Goat Cheese: Spread a dollop of creamy goat cheese alongside the apples for a rich, tangy flavor that beautifully balances the dish.
- Roasted Nuts: A sprinkle of roasted walnuts or pecans provides satisfying crunch and depth, enhancing the overall texture and flavor profile of your plate.
- Charcuterie Board: Create a delightful spread with slices of cured meats and artisan cheeses, letting the flavors of the grilled apples shine within the company of other gourmet bites.
- Honey-Glazed Carrots: Pair with honey-glazed carrots for a warm side dish that echoes the sweetness of the apples while adding an earthy note.
- Red Wine: A glass of fruity red wine will enhance the taste experience, tying together the sweet apples and savory prosciutto for an unforgettable pairing.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: For dessert, serve a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream alongside the warm grilled apples—an indulgent way to finish off the meal!
Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this dish with these delightful twists!
- Sweetener Swap: Use maple syrup instead of honey for a rich, unique sweetness that pairs beautifully with the apples and prosciutto.
- Herb Infusion: Add a sprinkle of rosemary or thyme with the olive oil for an aromatic touch that enhances flavor complexity.
- Cheese Addition: Crumble goat cheese or feta on top for a creamy contrast to the crunchy prosciutto and sweet apples for extra indulgence.
- Spicy Kick: Drizzle a touch of chili oil over the finished dish for those who like a little heat mixed with their sweet and savory flavors.
- Nutty Crunch: Top with chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra layer of texture and a delightful nutty flavor that complements the apples.
- Fruit Variation: Try grilling peaches or pears instead of apples for a delicious twist that will surprise and delight your guests.
- Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a balsamic reduction over the apples and prosciutto for a tangy sweetness that will take your dish to the next level!
- Stuffed Apples: Core the apples and fill them with a mixture of cream cheese and herbs before grilling for a surprising, creamy center.
Let your taste buds explore these exciting options for a truly personalized dish!
How to Store and Freeze Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey
Room Temperature: Allow the grilled apples to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours.
Fridge: Store any leftover grilled apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet to maintain their texture before serving.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the grilled apple wedges in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy your grilled apples with prosciutto after freezing, thaw them in the fridge overnight, then reheat on the grill or in a skillet for a quick, tasty treat!
Make Ahead Options
These Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey are perfect for meal prep and can save you valuable time during busy weeknights! You can slice and core the apples up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in an airtight container with a splash of lemon juice to prevent browning. The prosciutto can be crispy-fried in advance and kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, grill the apples directly from the fridge and reheating the prosciutto for a minute or two on the grill elevates its crunchiness. This approach ensures your dish remains just as delicious while saving you time without sacrificing quality!
Expert Tips for Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey
- Choose the Right Apples: Opt for firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp to prevent mushiness, ensuring your grilled apples maintain a delightful texture.
- Oil Wisely: Drizzling olive oil enhances caramelization; however, don’t overdo it—excess oil can lead to flare-ups on the grill.
- Control the Heat: Keep the grill at medium heat; too high can char the apples while leaving them raw inside. Proper grilling achieves a tender yet caramelized finish.
- Prosciutto Perfection: Watch your prosciutto closely as it crisps—1-2 minutes per side is usually perfect, but adjust based on your grill to avoid burning.
- Balance Sweetness: Drizzle honey to taste; start with a little, as you can always add more, ensuring the sweet contrast complements the salty prosciutto perfectly.
- Garnish for Freshness: Adding fresh mint as a garnish not only enhances the dish’s visual appeal but also brings a refreshing lift that balances the flavors beautifully.
Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey Recipe FAQs
Which apples are best for grilling?
Absolutely! For the best grilled apples, I recommend using firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. These apples hold their shape well when grilled, creating that delightful balance between sweet and tart.
How should I store leftover grilled apples?
Leftover grilled apples should be cooled completely before storing them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for about 2 hours or in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to gently reheat them before serving to maintain their delicious texture!
Can I freeze grilled apples?
Very! To freeze grilled apples, start by arranging the cooled wedges in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for a few hours until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months! When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat on the grill or in a skillet.
What should I do if my prosciutto isn’t crisping up?
If your prosciutto isn’t becoming crispy, it may help to ensure your grill is at the right temperature. Cooking it over medium heat typically works best, but if it’s still not crisping up, try extending the cooking time by a minute or two. Keep a close watch to prevent burning—prosciutto cooks quickly!
Are grilled apples safe for pets?
While apples are generally safe for dogs in moderation, it’s important to remember to remove the seeds and core. Prosciutto can be too salty for pets, so it’s best to keep this dish for human enjoyment only!
Can I use a different sweetener instead of honey?
You can definitely use a different sweetener! Maple syrup or agave nectar are excellent alternatives that enhance the sweet and savory profile of the dish nicely. Just keep in mind that the flavor might vary slightly, so use to taste.
Delicious Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the Grill: Start by preheating your grill to medium heat, around 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Apples: Core and slice the fresh apples into wedges, about 1 inch thick. Drizzle olive oil over them and toss gently to coat.
- Grill the Apples: Place the apple wedges directly on the grill grates. Grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
- Crisp the Prosciutto: While the apples grill, place the prosciutto slices on the grill. Cook for about 1-2 minutes per side until crispy.
- Assemble the Dish: Arrange the grilled apple wedges on a platter and crumble the prosciutto on top.
- Drizzle with Honey: Finish by drizzling honey over the apples and prosciutto.
- Garnish and Serve: Add fresh mint leaves as a garnish. Serve warm and enjoy!