Prosciutto wrapped dates are a timeless appetizer that seamlessly blends sweet and savory flavors. Whether you’re planning a fancy dinner party or a casual get-together, this classic dish is sure to please your guests.
Ingredients
Prosciutto is an Italian dry-cured ham known for its rich, salty flavor. Prosciutto is thinly sliced and aged for months, allowing the flavors to intensify. The result is a delicate balance of saltiness and umami, making it the perfect companion for sweet ingredients like dates.
Dates are naturally sweet, sticky fruits that come from the date palm tree. They have a distinct, caramel-like sweetness that pairs beautifully with the saltiness of prosciutto. The texture of dates can vary from soft and chewy to slightly firm, adding a delightful contrast to the dish.
Green Apple rounds out the appetizer even more by adding a fresh, sour taste.
Rosemary adds an earthy element which gives these prosciutto wrapped date appetizer all the flavor notes in one bite!
While the classic prosciutto wrapped dates are undeniably delicious, there are endless possibilities for customization. Here are a few ideas to tantalize your taste buds:
- Blue Cheese Stuffed Dates: Instead of goat cheese, stuff your dates with tangy blue cheese before wrapping them in prosciutto. The contrasting flavors are simply irresistible.
- Almond-Stuffed Dates: Insert a whole almond into each date before wrapping it in prosciutto. The added crunch and nutty flavor provide a delightful twist.
- Balsamic Glaze Drizzle: Elevate your presentation by drizzling a reduction of balsamic vinegar over your prosciutto wrapped dates. This creates a beautiful glaze that enhances both the taste and aesthetics.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian alternative, consider using thin strips of roasted red pepper or zucchini instead of prosciutto. This variation is perfect for accommodating guests with dietary restrictions.
Interested in more appetizers
Other fun holiday appetizers include Blackberry Brie Pinwheels, or Spiced Honey Whipped Feta Pastries. These Lamb Meatballs with Middle Eastern Romesco are also a crowd pleaser. And if you’re cooking for a younger crowd, these crispy smashed potatoes with bacon aioli are loved by kids and adults alike!
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit
- Slice prosciutto into strips and wrap tightly around each date
- remove the leaves from rosemary sprigs and sprinkle on top of prosciutto wrapped dates. Add black pepper
- Transfer to a baking tray and roast for 20 minutes until crispy
- While the dates are roasting, dice apple into bite size cubes. Option to spray with lemon juice to keep from browning .
- Assembly by removing the dates from oven and threading 1 apple cube and 1 date on each toothpick.
Super tasty and super simple to make! I loved it!