Quick and Easy Prosciutto Appetizers
*Spicy Prosciutto Wrapped Scallops * Prosciutto & Fontina Tortilla Wedges*
*Asparagus Wrapped with Prosciutto*
Yes, I know the headlines on my blog posts are corny…just cannot help myself. And although food may be a serious matter, these appetizers are simple enough that you are able to tell a few jokes while making them. Along with my crab cake appetizers, one of these three usually makes it into the appetizer line up when I entertain. My preference is to use the outdoor gas grill, which is steps from my kitchen. Speaking of the grill, if you are able to find them, slotted aluminum liners do a great job preventing smaller foods such as scallops & shrimp or long thin items such as asparagus from falling through the grill openings. A grill pan works fine for these items if you are cooking indoors.
Spicy Prosciutto Wrapped Scallops
Spicy Prosciutto Wrapped Scallops
Spicy Prosciutto Wrapped Scallops
Often ensconced in bacon, my vote is for the prosciutto. The prosciutto is not as thick as the bacon and seems to allow the scallops to cook more evenly. This option does require a watchful eye and turning the scallops in order to prevent the prosciutto from charring too much. This is a recipe I sometimes use as an entrée accompanied by rice or quinoa.
Prosciutto & Fontina Tortilla Wedges
Prosciutto & Fontina Tortilla Wedges
Prosciutto & Fontina Tortilla Wedges
These are easy, delicious and a large batch may be assembled and grilled quickly. Other combinations such as beans & cheeses, chopped vegetables, diced meats…the list goes on…it all works well. Chopped figs added to this recipe provide a sweet balance to the saltiness of the cheese & prosciutto…unfortunately, an idea that came to me after the fact and is not in my recipe. I did try a few and would recommend the addition. Children (and adventurous adults) enjoy building their own. Grill them in a few minutes and instant snack or small meal… possibly an opportunity to sneak in some healthy ingredients.
Asparagus Wrapped with Prosciutto
Asparagus Wrapped & Ready to Grill
Asparagus Wrapped with Prosciutto
If you enjoy a salty, savory flavor, the grated cheese & prosciutto change up the taste of the asparagus. In addition to it’s role as an appetizer, this dressed up version of the asparagus works as a side for a meal…I often serve it with fish.